Massachusetts Soil Surveys

19 survey areas

Massachusetts has 19 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 67% of surveyed soils. Entisols — young soils with little profile development, often on floodplains or steep slopes account for another 23%.

In terms of drainage, 42% of Massachusetts soils are classified as well drained. About 17% of soils have some form of poor drainage, which is important to consider for septic systems and foundations. 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

67% of surveyed soils

Young but developing soils found in mountains and river terraces. Variable properties — check drainage and bedrock depth.

Entisols

23% of surveyed soils

Young soils with little development — found on floodplains, dunes, and steep slopes. Properties vary widely by setting.

Spodosols

4% of surveyed soils

Acidic forest soils with a leached layer. Common under conifers. Often have drainage issues from a compacted subsoil layer.

Histosols

3% of surveyed soils

Organic peat and muck soils formed in wetlands. Very poor for building (compressible) and septic. Often in regulated wetlands.

Survey Areas

Massachusetts Soil Surveys

Soil Types

Survey Areas

Look Up a Specific Address