Queens County, New York
The dominant drainage class is Well drained and the dominant hydrologic group is B (moderate infiltration). This report summarizes the major soil map units across the survey area to help you understand what to expect when buying, building, or gardening in Queens County, New York.
| Soil Map Unit | Acres | Drainage | Hydro Group | Dwellings | Septic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Urban land-Flatbush complex, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 12K | Not limited | Very limited | ||
| Water | 8K | Not rated | Not rated | ||
| Urban land-Greenbelt complex, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 6K | Not limited | Very limited | ||
| Urban land, tidal marsh substratum, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 5K | Very limited | Very limited | ||
| Urban land-Greenbelt complex, 3 to 8 percent slopes | 5K | Not limited | Very limited | ||
| Urban land, outwash substratum, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 4K | Not limited | Very limited | ||
| Urban land-Greenbelt complex, 3 to 8 percent slopes, low impervious surface | 4K | Not limited | Very limited | ||
| Urban land, till substratum, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 4K | Not limited | Very limited | ||
| Urban land-Greenbelt complex, 0 to 3 percent slopes, low impervious surface | 3K | Not limited | Very limited | ||
| Nagunt sand, 0 to 2 meter water depth | 2K | Subaqueous | D | Not rated | Not rated |
| Urban land-Laguardia complex, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 2K | Not limited | Very limited | ||
| Urban land-Verrazano complex, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 2K | Not limited | Very limited | ||
| Urban land, till substratum, 3 to 8 percent slopes | 2K | Not limited | Very limited | ||
| Urban land-Flatbush complex, 0 to 3 percent slopes, low impervious surface | 1K | Not limited | Very limited | ||
| Urban land-Flatbush complex, 3 to 8 percent slopes | 1K | Not limited | Very limited | ||
| Greenbelt-Urban land complex, very deep water table, 3 to 8 percent slopes, cemetery | 1K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Greenbelt-Urban land complex, 3 to 8 percent slopes | 921 | Well drained | B | Not limited | Somewhat limited |
| Greenbelt-Urban land complex, very deep water table, 0 to 3 percent slopes, cemetery | 796 | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Greenbelt-Urban land complex, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 697 | Well drained | B | Not limited | Somewhat limited |
| Ipswich mucky peat, 0 to 2 percent slopes, very frequently flooded | 686 | Very poorly drained | A/D | Very limited | Very limited |
What This Means
Building & Foundations
Most soils are generally favorable for residential construction. Standard foundations are usually viable, though site-specific evaluation is always recommended.
Septic Systems
About 78% of soils are rated "very limited" for septic absorption fields. Despite good drainage overall, limitations may stem from shallow bedrock, steep slopes, or seasonal conditions. Engineered or alternative systems are frequently required. Always get a professional perc test before purchasing land that needs septic.
Gardening & Agriculture
Drainage is generally favorable for gardening. Adding compost and mulch will improve fertility and water retention. Test your soil's pH before planting — most vegetables prefer 6.0-7.0.