Hamlin County, South Dakota
The dominant drainage class is Well drained and the dominant hydrologic group is C (slow infiltration, moderate runoff). 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 Hamlin County, South Dakota.
| Soil Map Unit | Acres | Drainage | Hydro Group | Dwellings | Septic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Poinsett-Buse-Waubay complex, 1 to 6 percent slopes | 62K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Poinsett-Waubay silty clay loams, 1 to 6 percent slopes | 47K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Water | 18K | Not rated | Not rated | ||
| Vienna-Brookings complex, 1 to 6 percent slopes | 18K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Cubden-Badger silty clay loams, coteau, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 17K | Somewhat poorly drained | C/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Poinsett-Waubay silty clay loams, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 13K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Southam silty clay loam, 0 to 1 percent slopes | 10K | Very poorly drained | C/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Cubden-Tonka silty clay loams, coteau, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 9K | Somewhat poorly drained | C/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Poinsett-Buse-Waubay complex, 2 to 9 percent slopes | 8K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Buse-Poinsett complex, 6 to 9 percent slopes | 8K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Brandt silty clay loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 6K | Well drained | C | Not limited | Very limited |
| Kranzburg-Brookings silty clay loams, 1 to 6 percent slopes | 6K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Vienna-Brookings complex, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 5K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Oldham silty clay loam | 5K | Very poorly drained | C/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Buse-Barnes loams, 9 to 20 percent slopes | 5K | Well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Parnell silty clay loam | 5K | Very poorly drained | C/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Barnes-Buse loams, coteau, 2 to 6 percent slopes | 4K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Estelline silt loam, coteau, 2 to 6 percent slopes | 4K | Well drained | B | Not limited | Very limited |
| Barnes-Buse loams, 6 to 9 percent slopes | 4K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Divide loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes, occasionally flooded | 4K | Somewhat poorly drained | B/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 93% 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.