Potter 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 Potter County, South Dakota.
| Soil Map Unit | Acres | Drainage | Hydro Group | Dwellings | Septic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Highmore silt loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 44K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Highmore silt loam, 2 to 6 percent slopes | 43K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Highmore-Mobridge silt loams, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 34K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Eakin-Peno complex, 2 to 6 percent slopes | 29K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Mobridge silt loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 25K | Moderately well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Agar-Mobridge silt loams, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 23K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Williams-Zahl loams, 3 to 6 percent slopes | 23K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Agar silt loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 22K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Water | 21K | Not rated | Not rated | ||
| Eakin-Raber complex, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 19K | Well drained | C | Not limited | Very limited |
| Agar silt loam, 2 to 6 percent slopes | 17K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Sansarc-Opal clays, 9 to 25 percent slopes | 17K | Well drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Glenham-Ethan-Prosper loams, 1 to 6 percent slopes | 16K | Well drained | C | Not limited | Very limited |
| Java-Betts loams, 6 to 9 percent slopes | 16K | Well drained | C | Not limited | Very limited |
| Williams-Bowbells loams, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 15K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Oahe-Delmont loams, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 12K | Well drained | B | Not limited | Very limited |
| Betts-Java loams, 9 to 25 percent slopes | 11K | Well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Eakin-Raber complex, 2 to 6 percent slopes | 10K | Well drained | C | Not limited | Very limited |
| Opal clay, 3 to 6 percent slopes | 8K | Well drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Hoven silt loam, 0 to 1 percent slopes | 8K | Poorly drained | 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 70% 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.