Connecticut Soil Surveys
Connecticut has 2 USDA soil survey areas covering a wide range of landscapes and soil conditions. The most common soil order is Inceptisols — young soils with minimal horizon development but more than Entisols, making up roughly 68% of surveyed soils. Entisols — young soils with little profile development, often on floodplains or steep slopes account for another 27%.
In terms of drainage, 60% of Connecticut soils are classified as well drained. Drainage class affects everything from septic system design to basement feasibility to garden planning. Use the survey area pages below to see drainage details for specific counties, or look up any address for an exact soil profile.
Soil Types
Inceptisols
68% of surveyed soils
Young but developing soils found in mountains and river terraces. Variable properties — check drainage and bedrock depth.
Entisols
27% of surveyed soils
Young soils with little development — found on floodplains, dunes, and steep slopes. Properties vary widely by setting.
Histosols
3% of surveyed soils
Organic peat and muck soils formed in wetlands. Very poor for building (compressible) and septic. Often in regulated wetlands.