Hand 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 Hand County, South Dakota.
| Soil Map Unit | Acres | Drainage | Hydro Group | Dwellings | Septic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Houdek-Prosper loams, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 96K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Houdek-Prosper loams, 1 to 6 percent slopes | 92K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Glenham-Propser loams, 1 to 6 percent slopes | 69K | Well drained | C | Not limited | Very limited |
| Eakin-Raber complex, 2 to 6 percent slopes | 63K | Well drained | C | Not limited | Very limited |
| Glenham-Cavo loams, undulating | 40K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Tetonka silt loam, 0 to 1 percent slopes | 38K | Poorly drained | C/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Glenham-Cavo loams, nearly level | 36K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Houdek loam, 2 to 6 percent slopes | 33K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Houdek-Dudley complex, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 30K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Glenham loam, undulating | 27K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Hoven silt loam, 0 to 1 percent slopes | 21K | Poorly drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Raber-Peno loams, 6 to 9 percent slopes | 20K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Bon loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes, rarely flooded | 19K | Moderately well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Glenham-Java loams, rolling | 18K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Houdek-Dudley complex, 2 to 6 percent slopes | 17K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Peno-Raber loams, hilly | 16K | Well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Glenham-Prosper loams, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 16K | Well drained | C | Not limited | Very limited |
| Houdek-Ethan loams, 6 to 9 percent slopes | 15K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Prosper-Stickney loams, nearly level | 11K | Moderately well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Bon-Northville complex, nearly level | 10K | Moderately well drained | B | 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 100% 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.