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Home My WebLink About20002769.tiff 38 Soil survey a 1 . of preferred species is maintained in the plant buffalograss. The average annual production of air-dry community. vegetation ranges from 500 to 1,500 If the plant cover is disturbed, protection from erosionpounds. is needed. Loss of the surface layer results in a severe If the e range is overgrazed, the proportion of preferred decrease in productivity and in the potential of the unit to preferred e plants decreases i and the proportion Therefore, less produce plants suitable for grazing. Slope limits access zng forage plants managed so that h. the desired livestock balance by livestock and results in overgrazing of the less sloping grazing should be i managed ai the a balance areas. P 9 of preferred species is maintained in the plant community. Management practices suitable for use on this unit are proper range use, deferred grazing, and rotation razin Range dn seeding is suitable if the is in dr grazing. theco seasonal r plants selected for seeding should meet Livestock grazing should be managed to protect the unit the seasonal requirements of livestock or wildlife, or from excessive erosion. Mechanical treatment is not both. Other management practices that are suitable for practical because of the areas of Rock outcrop and the use on this unit are proper range USG, deferred grazing, steepness of sllope. and rotation grazing. If the plant cover is disturbed, This unit is poorly suited to windbreaks and protection from soil blowing is needed. Loss of the environmental plantings. The main limitations of the Peetz soil are the high content of lime, moderate surfaceieypr results in a severe ldecrease in productivity available water capacity, and, steepness of slope. and the potential of the soil to produce plants suitable Supplemental irrigation may be needed when planting for grazing. and during dry periods. This unit is well suited to windbreaks and This map unit ise in capability subclass Vlls, environmental plantings. Supplemental irrigation may be nonirrigated, and in Gravel Breaks range site. needed when planting and during dry periods. This map unit is in capability subclass IV, nonirrigated, 54—Platner loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes. This deep, and in Loamy Plains range site. well drained soil is on smooth to slightly dissected plains and adjacent stream terraces. It formed in calcareous 55—Renohill tine sandy loam, 0 to 6 percent loamy alluvium. slopes. This moderately deep, well drained soil is on ,to moderately dissected plains. It Typically, the surface layer is grayish brown loam 4 slightly dissectedi inches thick. The subsoil is clay, clay loam, and silty clay formed in calcareous loamy or clayey residuum derived am 20 inches thick. The substratum to a depth of 60 dominantly from shale. d has or more is calcareous fine sandy loam and sandy Typically, the surface layer is brown fine sandy loam 5 loam. inches thick. The subsoil is clay loam 13 inches thick. Included in this unit are small areas of Ascalon fine The substratum is calcareous clay loam 14 inches thick. Shale is at a depth of 32 inches. Depth to shale ranges sandy loam, Manzanola clay loam, and Nunn clay loam. from 20 to 40 inches. In some areas the surface layer is Also included are soils that have a fine sandy loam or sandy loam surface layer. loam or clay loam. Permeability of this Platner soil is slow. Available water Included in this unit are small areas of Midway clay capacity is high. Effective rooting depth is 60 inches or loam, Shingle loam, and Rock outcrop of shale. more. Runoff is slow, and the hazard of water erosion is Permeability of this Renohill soil is slow. Available water capacity is moderate. Effective rooting depth is 20 slight. The hazard of soil blowing is moderate. This unit is used as nonirrigated cropland and to 40 inches. Runoff is medium, and the hazard of water rangeland. Winter wheat is the main crop. erosion is slight to moderate. The hazard of soil blowing This unit is well suited to winter wheat, barley, oats, is moderate. and sorghum. Low annual precipitation is the main This unit is used as rangeland and nonirrigated limitation for the crops that can be grown on this unit. cropland. Because precipitation is not sufficient for annual The potential plant community on this unit is mainly cropping, a cropping system that includes small grain blue grama, western wheatgrass, sedges, and and summer fallow is most suitable. Precipitation usually buffalograss. The'average annual production of air-dry is too low for crops on this unit to make efficient use of vegetation ranges from 500 to 1,500 pounds. fertilizer. If the range is overgrazed, the proportion of preferred Maintaining crop residue on or near the surface forage plants decreases and the proportion of less reduces runoff, reduces soil blowing, and helps to preferred forage plants increases. Therefore, livestock maintain soil tilth and organic matter content. Stubble- grazing should be managed so that the desired balance mulch farming, striperopping, and minimum tillage help to of preferred species is maintained in the plant control erosion and conserve moisture. Terraces reduce community. runoff and the risk of erosion and help to conserve Range seeding is suitable if the range is in poor moisture. condition. The plants selected for seeding should meet The potential plant community on this unit is mainly the seasonal requirements of livestock or wildlife, or le".."grama, western wheatgrass, sedges, and both. Other management practices that are suitable for 1 — 2000-2769 WELD COUNTY, COLORADO, SOUTHERN PART 1 needed at the time of planting and during dry periods. cover. For pheasants, undisturbed nesting cover is essen r1, Trees that are best suited and have good survival are tial and should be included in plans for habitat develop Rocky Mountain juniper, eastern redcedar. ponderosa ment. especially in areas of intensive agriculture. pine. Siberian elm. Russian-olive. and hackberry. The This soil has good potential for urban and recreations shrubs best suited are skunkbush sumac, lilac, and Siberi- development. Increased population growth in the surve. an peashrub. area has resulted in increased homesite construction. Th, Wildlife is an important secondary use of this soil. The chief limiting soil features for urban development are th cropland areas provide favorable habitat for ring-necked shrink-swell potential of the subsoil as it wets and drie pheasant and mourning dove. Many nongame species can and the limited ability of this soil to support a load. Septi be attracted by establishing areas for nesting and escape tank absorption fields function properly, but communit; cover. For pheasants, undisturbed nesting cover is essen- sewage systems should be provided if the population der tial and should be included in plans for habitat develop- sity increases. Because of the moderately rapid permes ment. Rangeland wildlife, for example, the pronghorn an- bility of the substratum, sewage lagoons must be seale< telope, can be attracted by developing livestock watering Lawns, shrubs, and trees row well Capability clacc I ir facilities, managing livestock grazing, and reseeding rigated. where needed. 9—Ascalon loam, 1 to 3 percent slopes. This is a deer Few areas of this Ascalon soil are in major growth and well drained soil on terraces at elevations of 4,500 to 4,90 urbanized centers. The shrink-swell potential of the sub- feet. It formed in alluvium deposited by the major river soil as it wets and dries is the most limiting soil feature in the survey area. Included in mapping are small area that must be considered in planning homesites and con- where sand and gravel are within a depth of 60 inches structing roads. Capability subclass IVe nonirrigated; Also included are small areas of soils that have a cla Sandy Plains range site. loam subsoil. 8—Ascalon loam, 0 to 1 percent slopes. This is a deep, Typically the surface layer of this Ascalon soil is brow well drained soil on terraces at elevations of 4,500 to 4,900 loam about 10 inches thick. The subsoil is brown and ye. feet. It formed in alluvium deposited by the major rivers lowish brown sandy clay loam about 15 inches thick. Th in the survey area. Included in mapping are small areas substratum to a depth of 60 inches is calcareous sand. I where sand and gravel are within a depth of 60 inches. loam. Also included are small areas of soils that have a clay permeability is moderate. Available water capacity i loam subsoil Typeially the surface layer of this Ascalon soil is brown Surf high. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more (S^,' ace runoff is medium, and the erosion hazard is low. loam about 10 inches thick. The subsoil is brown and yel- This soil is used almost entirely for irrigated crops. I lowish brown sandy clay loam about 15 inches thick. The is suited to all crops commonly grown in the area, incluc substratum to a depth 60 inches is calcareous sandy loam. ing corn, sugar beets, beans, alfalfa, small grain, potatoee Permeability is moderate. Available water capacity is high. and onions. An example of a suitable cropping system is The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more. Surface runoff is slow, and the erosion hazard is low. to 4 years of alfalfa followed by corn, corn for silage This soil is used almost entirely for irrigated crops. It sugar beets, small grain, or beans. Land leveling, ditc is suited to all crops commonly grown in the area, includ- luvng, and installing pipelines may be needed for prope ing corn, sugar beets, beans, alfalfa, small grain, potatoes, `Water application. All methods of irrigation are suitable, but furrow ir and onions. An example of a suitable cropping system is 3 to 4 years of alfalfa followed by corn, corn for silage, rigation is the most common. Barnyard manure and corr sugar beets, small grain, or beans. Few conservation prac- mercial fertilizer are needed for top yields. Windbreaks and environmental plantings of trees an tices are needed to maintain top yields. All methods of irrigation are suitable, but furrow ir- shrubs commonly grown in the area are generally we rigation is the most common. Barnyard manure and com- suited to this soil. Cultivation to control competin. mercal fertilizer are needed for top yields. vegetation should be continued for as many years a Windbreaks and environmental plantings are generally possible following planting. Trees that are best suited an well suited to this soil. Cultivation to control competing have good survival are Rocky Mountain juniper, easter vegetation should be continued for as many years as redcedar, ponderosa pine, Siberian elm, Russian-olive, an possible following planting. Trees that are best suited and hackberry. The shrubs best suited are skunkbush sumac have good survival are Rocky Mountain juniper, eastern lilac, Siberian peashrub, and American plum. redcedar, ponderosa pine, Siberian elm, Russian-olive, and Wildlife is an important secondary use of this soil. Th hackberry. The shrubs best suited are skunkbush sumac, cropland areas provide favorable habitat for ring-necke lilac, Siberian peashrub, and American plum. pheasant and mourning dove. Many nongame species ca Wildlife is an important secondary use of this soil. The be attracted by establishing areas for nesting and escap cropland areas provide favorable habitat for ring-necked cover. For pheasants, undisturbed nesting cover is esser pheasant and mourning dove. Many nongame species can tial and should be included in plans for habitat develop be attracted by establishing areas for nesting and escape ment, especially in areas of intensive agriculture. r""'' em - . 12 SOIL SURVEY This soil has good potential for urban and recreational Wildlife is an important secondary use of this soil. The /`� development. Increased population growth in the survey cropland areas provide favorable habitat for ring-necked t area has resulted in increased homesite construction. The pheasant and mourning dove. Many nongame specks can chief limiting soil features for urban development are the be attracted by establishing areas for nesting and escape shrink-swell potential of the subsoil as it wets and dries cover. For pheasants, undisturbed nesting cover is essen- and the limited ability of this soil to support a load. Septic tial and should be included in plans for habitat develop- tank absorption fields function properly, but community ment, especially in areas of intensive agriculture. Range- sewage systems should be provided if the population den- land wildlife, for example, deer and antelope, can be at- sity increases. Because of the moderately rapid permea- tracted by managing livestock grazing and reseeding bility of the substratum, sewage lagoons must be sealed. where needed. Lawns, shrubs, and trees grow well. Capability subclass This soil is not suited to urban or recreational develop- lie irrigated. percent ment because of the flood hazard. Capability subclass 10—Bankard sandy loam, 0 to 3 on s flood rvy irrigated, VIw nonirrigated; Sandy Bottom land is a deep, somewhat excessively drained soil plains at elevations of 4,450 to 5,000 feet. It formed in range site. stratified recent alluvium along streams and rivers. In- deep,11— e r drained dy soillo on 0 to 1 percent elevations slopes.of This is 0 eluded in mapping are numerous sand and gravel bars a ,80 well formed on alluvium v at deposited by the and small areas of noncalcareous soils. to 4,800 feet. It in deposited the South Platte River. Included in mapping are small areas Typically the surface layer of this Bankard soil is brown sandy loam about 4 inches thick. The underlying of soils that have sand and gravelly sand in the lower material to a depth of 60 inches is pale brown calcareous part of the substratum. sand stratified with thin lenses of sandy loam, loam, and Typically the surface layer is grayish brown andy wash fine gravel. about 11 inches thick. The subsoil is brown and yellowish brown sandy clay loam about 19 inches thick The sub- Permeability is moderately rapid. Available water capacity is low. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or stratum to a depth of 60 inches is loamy sand. more. Surface runoff is slow, and the erosion hazard is Permeability and available water capacity are low. moderate. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or This soil is suited to limited cropping. It is sandy and more. Surface runoff is slow, and the erosion hazard is subject to flooding. Pasture is the best use. Tall wheat- low. grass, tall fescue, and annual sweetclover are some of the T soil is used almost entirely for irrigated crops. It r most suitable crops. Light, frequent irrigation by furrows is suited to all crops commonly grown in the area tatoe - and flooding is best. Commercial fertilizer improves the mg corn, sugar beets, beans, alfalfa small grain potatoes and onions. An example of a suitable cropping system is 3 amount and value of forage produced. The potential native vegetation is dominated by to 4 years of alfalfa followed by corn, corn for silage, switchgrass, indiangrass, sand bluestem, sand reedgrass, sugar beets, small grain, or beans. Few conservation prac- sideoats grama, needleandthread, and blue grama. Much tices are needed to maintain top yields. of this range site includes other soils and vegetation in of of irrigation are suitable, but furrow ir- such a complex pattern that it is difficult to map them r gation is the most common. Barnyard manure and com- separatel;y. Potential production ranges from 2,500 pounds mercial fertilizer are needed for top yields. per acre in favorable years to 1,500 pounds in unfavorable Windbreaks and environmental plantings are generally suited to this soil. Soil blowing, the principal hazard in years. As range condition deteriorates, the tall and mid grasses decrease; blue grarna, sand dropseed, and forbs establishing trees and shrubs, can be controlled by cul- tivatimg only in the tree row and by leaving a strip of increase; and forage production drops. Undesirable weeds and annuals invade the site as range condition becomes vegetation between the rows. Supplemental irrigation Poorer• may be needed at the time of planting and during dry Management of vegetation should be based on taking periods. Trees that are best suited and have good survival half and leaving half of the total annual production. Seed- are Rocky Mountain juniper, eastern redcedar, ponderosa ing is desirable only in areas large enough to interseed or Pine, Siberian elm, Russian-olive, and hackberry. The to prepare a seedbed. Switchgrass, sand bluestem, sand shrubs best suited are skunkbush sumac, lilac, and Siberi- reedgrass,, sideoats grama, little bluestem, blue grama, pu- an peashrub. bescent vheatgrass, and intermediate wheatgrass are Wildlife is an important secondary use of this soil. suitable for seeding. This soil can be seeded by using an Ring-necked pheasant, mourning dove, and many non- interseeder or a firm, clean sorghum stubble. A grass drill game species can be attracted by establishing areas for is required. Seeding early in spring has proven most suc- nesting and escape cover. For pheasants, undisturbed cessful. nesting cover is essential and should be included in plans This soil is generally not suited to the establishment for habitat development, especially in areas of intensive and growth of trees and shrubs. Onsite investigation is agriculture. needed to determine feasibility and possible tree and This soil has good potential for urban and recreational shrub species. development. Lawns, shrubs, and trees grow well. The r " "'" • WELD COUNTY. COLORADO. SOUTHERN PART 23 Windbreaks and environmental plantings of trees and The potential native vegetation is dominated by blue shrubs commonly grown in the area are generally well grama. Several mid grasses, such as western wheatgrass suited to this soil. Cultivation to control competing and needleandthread, are also present. Potential produc- vegetation should be continued for as many years as tion ranges from 1,600 pounds per acre in favorable years possible following planting. Trees that are best suited and to 1,000 pounds in unfavorable years. As range condition have good survival are Rocky Mountain juniper, eastern deteriorates, the mid grasses decrease; blue grama, buf- redcedar, ponderosa pine, Siberian elm, Russian-olive, and falograss, snakeweed, yucca, and fringed sage increase; hackberry. The shrubs best suited are skunkbush sumac, and forage production drops. Undesirable weeds and an- Siberian peashrub, lilac, and American plum. nuals invade the site as range condition becomes poorer. Wildlife is an important secondary use of this soil. The Management of vegetation on this soil should be based cropland areas provide favorable habitat for ring-necked on taking half and leaving half of the total annual produc- pheasant and mourning dove. Many nongame species can tion. Seeding is desirable if the range is in poor condition. be attracted by establishing areas for nesting and escape Sideoats grama, little bluestem. western wheatgrass, blue cover. For pheasants, undisturbed nesting cover is essen- grama, pubescent wheatgrass, and crested wheatgrass are tial and should be included in plans for habitat develop- suitable for seeding. The grass selected should meet the ment, especially in areas of intensive agriculture. seasonal requirements of livestock. It can be seeded into This soil has good potential for urban and recreational a clean, firm sorghum stubble, or it can be drilled into a development. Increased population growth in the survey firm prepared seedbed. Seeding early in spring has area has resulted in increased homesite construction. The proven most successful chief limiting feature for urban development and road Windbreaks and environmental plantings of trees and construction is the limited capacity of the soil to support shrubs commonly grown in the area are generally well a load. Septic tank absorption fields function properly, but suited to this soil. Cultivation to control competing community sewage systems should be provided if the vegetation should be continued for as many years as possible following planting. Trees that are best suited and population density increases. Because of the permeability have good survival are Rocky Mountain juniper, eastern of the substratum, sewage lagoons must be sealed. Lawns, shrubs, and trees grow well. Capability class I ir- redcedar, ponderosa pine, Siberian elm, Russian-olive, and rigated. hackberry. The shrubs best suited are skunkbush sumac, 32—Kim loam, 1 to 3 percent slopes. This is a deep, lilac, Siberian peashrub, and American plum. well drained soil on smooth plains and alluvial fans at Wildlife is an important secondary use of this soil. The elevations of 4,900"to 5,250 feet. It formed in mixed eolian cropland areas provide favorable habitat for ring-necked pheasant and mourning dove. Many nongarne species can deposit and parent sediment from a wide variety of bedrock. Included in mapping are small areas of soils that cover.be attracted For by pheasants,establishing areasundisturbed for nesting ngc and escape have loamy sand underlying material. nesting cover is develop- Typically - the surface layer is brown and pale brown tial and should be included in plans for habitat loam about 12 inches thick The upper 28 inches of the un- ment, especially in areas of intensive agriculture. Range denying material is pale brown loam.. The lower part to a atland wildlife,b for example,g the livestock ockhornrg antelope,facilities, be depth of 60 inches is pale brown fine sandy loam. managing aa vy devegrazing,loping ndr watering f e needed. Permeability is moderate. Available water capacity is his o livehstock poe and reseeding where ne lion. high. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more. vela mil t. I cgrea edteopultoo urban and recreational l development. Increased population growth in the survey Surface runoff is medium, and the erosion hazard is low. area has resulted in increased homesite construction. The In irrigated areas this soil is suited to all crops com- chief limiting soil feature for urban development and road monly grown in the area, including corn, sugar beets, construction is the limited capacity of this soil to support beans, alfalfa, small grain, potatoes, and onions. An exam- a load. Septic tank absorption fields function properly, but ple.of a suitable cropping system is 3 to 4 years of alfalfa community sewage systems should be provided if the followed by corn, corn for silage, sugar beets, small grain, population density increases. Because of the permeability or beans. Land leveling, ditch lining (fig. 6), and installing of the substratum, sewage lagoons must be sealed. pipelines may be needed for proper water applications. Lawns, shrubs, and trees grow well. Capability subclass All methods of irrigation are suitable, but furrow ir- IIe irrigated, IVe nonirrigated; Loamy Plains range site. rigation is the most common. Barnyard manure and com- 33—Kim loam, 3 to 5 percent slopes. This is a deep, mercial fertilizer are needed for top yields. well drained soil on plains and alluvial fans at elevations In nonirrigated areas this soil is suited to winter wheat, of 4,900 to 5,250 feet. It formed in mixed eolian deposits barley, and sorghum. Most of the acreage is planted to and parent sediment from a wide variety of bedrock. In- winter wheat and is summer fallowed in alternate years eluded in mapping are small areas of soils that have to allow moisture accumulation. Generally precipitation is loamy sand underlying material. too low for beneficial use of fertilizer. Typically the surface layer is brown and pale brown - Stubble mulch farming, striperopping, and minimum til- loam about 10 inches thick. The upper 28 inches of the un- !o''' lage are needed to control soil blowing and water erosion. denying material is pale brown loam. The lower part to a Terracing also may be needed to control water erosion. depth of 60 inches is pale brown fine sandy loam. tem 24 SOIL SURVEY 4ve.t Permeability is moderate. Available water capacity is land wildlife, for example, the pronghorn antelope, can be high. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more. attracted by developing livestock watering facilities. Surface runoff is medium, and the erosion hazard is managing livestock grazing, and reseeding where needed. moderate. This soil has good potential for urban and recreational In irrigated areas this soil is suited to crops commonly development. Increased population growth in the survey grown in the area. Perennial grasses and alfalfa or close area has resulted in increased homesite construction. The grown crops should be grown at least 50 percent of the chief limiting soil feature for urban development and road time. Contour ditches and corrugations can be used in ir- construction is the limited capacity of this soil to support rigating close grown crops and pasture. Furrows, contour a load. Septic tank absorption fields function properly, but furrows. and cross slope furrows are suitable for row community sewage systems should be provided if the crops. Sprinkler irrigation is also suggested. Keeping til- population density increases. Because of the permeability lage to a minimum and utilizing crop residue help to con- of the substratum, sewage lagoons must be sealed. trol erosion. Maintaining fertility is important. Crops Lawns, shrubs, and trees grow well. Capability subclass respond to applications of phosphorus and nitrogen. IIIe irrigated, IVe nonirrigated; Loamy Plains range site. In nonirrigated areas this soil is suited to winter wheat, barley, and sorghum. Most of the acreage is planted to 34—Kim loam, 5 to 9 percent slopes. This is a deep, winter wheat. The predicted average yield is 28 bushels well drained soil on plains and alluvial fans at elevations per.acre. The soil is summer fallowed in alternate years of 4,900 to 5,250 feet. It formed in mixed eolian deposits to allow moisture accumulation. Generally precipitation is and parent sediment from a wide variety of bedrock. In- too low for beneficial use of fertilizer. eluded in mapping are small areas of soils that have Stubble mulch farming, striperopping, and minimum til- loamy sand underlying material. lage are needed to control soil blowing and water erosion. Typically the surface layer is brown and pale brown Terracing also may be needed to control water erosion. loam about 10 inches thick. The upper 25 inches of the un- The potential native vegetation is dominated by blue derlying material is pale brown loam. The lower part to a grama. Several mid grasses, such as western wheatgrass depth of 60 inches is pale brown fine sandy loam. and needleandthread, are also present. Potential produc- Permeability is moderate. Available water capacity is tion ranges from 1,600 pounds per acre in favorable years high. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more. to 1,000 pounds in unfavorable years. As range condition Surface runoff is rapid, and the erosion hazard is e deteriorates, the mid grasses decrease; blue grama, buf- moderate. falograss, snakeweed, yucca, and fringed sage increase; This soil is suited to limited cropping. Intensive and forage production drops. Undesirable weeds and an- cropping is ha>ardous because of erosion. The cropping nuals invade the site as range condition becomes poorer. system should be limited to such close grown crops as al- Management of vegetation on this soil should be based falfa, wheat, and barley. This soil also is suited to ir- on taking half and leaving half of the total annual produc- rigated pasture. A suitable cropping system is 3 to 4 tion. Seeding is desirable if the range is in poor condition. years of alfalfa followed by 2 years of corn and small Sideoats grama, little bluestem, western wheatgrass, blue grain and alfalfa seeded with a nurse crop. grama, pubescent wheatgrass, and crested wheatgrass are Close grown crops can be irrigated from closely spaced suitable for seeding. The grass selected should meet the contour ditches or sprinklers. Contour furrows or sprin- seasonal requirements of livestock. It can be seeded into klers should be used for new crops. Applications of a clean, firm sorghum stubble, or it can be drilled into a nitrogen and phosphorus help in maintaining good produc- firm prepared seedbed. Seeding early in spring has tion, proven most successful The potential native vegetation is dominated by blue Windbreaks and environmental plantings of trees and grama. Sideoats grama, little bluestem, western wheat- shrubs commonly grown in the area are generally well grass, and sedge are also prominent. Potential production suited to this soil. Cultivation to control competing ranges from 1,800 pounds per acre in favorable years to vegetation should be continued for as many years as 1,500 pounds in unfavorable years. As range condition possible following planting. Trees that are best suited and deteriorates, the sideoats grama and little bluestem have good survival are Rocky Mountain juniper, eastern decrease; forage production drops; and blue grama, buf- redcedar, ponderosa pine, Siberian elm, Russian-olive, and falograss, and several perennial forbs and shrubs in- hackberry. The shrubs best suited are skunkbush sumac, crease. Undesirable weeds and annuals invade the site as lilac, Siberian peashrub, and American plum. range condition becomes poorer. Wildlife is an important secondary use of this soil. The Management of vegetation should be based on taking cropland areas provide favorable habitat for ring-necked half and leaving half of the total annual production. Seed- pheasant and mourning dove. Many nongame species can ing is desirable if the range is in poor condition. Sideoats be attracted by establishing areas for nesting and escape grama, little bluestem, western wheatgrass, and pu- cover. For pheasants, undisturbed nesting cover is essen- bescent wheatgrass are suitable for seeding. The grass tial and should be included in plans for habitat develop- selected should meet the seasonal needs of livestock. It ment, especially in areas of intensive agriculture. Range- can be seeded into a clean, firm sorghum stubble, or it "1 WELD COUNTY, COLORADO, SOUTHERN PART 25 can be drilled into a firm prepared seedbed. Plowing and Permeabilty is rapid. Available water capacity is drilling on the contour minimize runoff and soil losses. moderate. The water table is usually about 24 to 36 inches Seeding early in spring has proven most successful. below the surface. Surface runoff is slow, and the erosion Windbreaks and environmental plantings are generally hazard is low. well suited to this soil. Cultivation to control competing This unit is used as rangeland and irrigated cropland. vegetation should be continued for as many years as Cropping in irrigated areas is limited to the crops possible following planting. Trees that are best suited and tolerant of water and salts. Light, frequent irrigations by have good survival are Rocky Mountain juniper, eastern furrows and flooding reduce the salts accumulation. redcedar, ponderosa pine, Siberian elm. Russian-olive, and Pasture is the best use. Tall wheatgrass, tall fescue, and hackberry. The shrubs best suited are skunkbush sumac, annual sweetclover are some of the best suited crops. lilac, Siberian peashrub, and American plum. Commercial fertilizers improve the amount and value of Wildlife is an important secondary use of this soil. The forage produced. cropland areas provide favorable habitat for ring-necked The potential native vegetation on this unit is pheasant and mourning dove. Many nongame species can dominated by switchgrass, little bluestem, sand reedgrass, be attracted by establishing areas for nesting and escape and western wheatgrass. Indiangrass, sand bluestem, cover. For pheasants, undisturbed nesting cover is essen- prairie cordgrass, slender wheatgrass, alkali sacatgn, salt- tial and should be included in plans for habitat develop- grass, sedge, and rush are also present. Potential produc- ment, especially in areas of intensive agriculture. Range- tion ranges from 4,000 pounds per acre in favorable years land wildlife, for example, the pronghorn antelope, can be to 3,000 pounds in unfavorable years. As range condition attracted by developing livestock watering facilities, deteriorates, the switchgrass, sand bluestem, indiaizgrass, managing livestock grazing, and reseeding where needed. little bluestem, and prairie cordgrass decrease and salt- This soil has good potential for urban and recreational grass, blue grama, sand dropseed, sedge, and rush in- development. Increased population growth in the survey crease. Undesirable weeds and annuals invade the site as area has resulted in increased homesite construction. The range condition becomes poorer. chief limiting soil feature for urban development and road Management of vegetation on this unit should be based construction is the limited capacity of this soil to support on taking half and leaving half of the total annual produc- a load. Septic tank absorption fields function properly, but tion. Seeding is desirable if the range is in poor condition. community sewage systems should be provided if the Switchgrass, sand bluestem, sand reedgrass, western population density increases. Because of the permeability wheatgrass, indiangrass, pubescent wheatgrass, and inter- of the substratum, sewage lagoons must be sealed. mediate wheatgrass are suitable for seeding. The plants Lawns, shrubs, and trees grow well. Capability subclass selected should meet the seasonal requirements of IVe irrigated, VIe nonirrigated; Loamy Plains range site. livestock. They can be seeded into a clean, firm sorghum 35—Loup-Boel loamy sands, 0 to 3 percent slopes. stubble, or they can be drilled into a firm prepared This level to nearly level map unit is on stream bottoms seedbed. Seeding early in spring has proven most success- and in drainageways of the sandhills at elevations of 4,550 ful. Capability subclass IVw irrigated, VIw nonirtiated; to 4,750 feet. The Loup soil occupies the lower or depres- Sandy Meadow range site. sional areas, which receive additional runoff. It makes up 36—Midway-Shingle complex, 5 to 20 percent slopes. about 55 percent of the unit. The Boel soil occupies the This moderately sloping to strongly sloping map unit is on slightly higher elevations. It makes up about 35 percent upland hills and ridges at elevations of 5,050 to 5,250 feet. of the unit. About 10 percent of the unit is Osgood sand The Midway soil makes up about 50 percent of the unit, and Valent sand. and the Shingle soil about 35 percent. About 15 percent is The Loup soil is deep and poorly drained. It formed in Renohill clay loam and Tassel fine sandy loam. The Mid- sandy alluvium. Typically the surface layer is very dark way soil differs from the Shingle soil in having more than grayish brown, mottled loamy sand about 16 inches thick. 35 percent clay in the underlying material. The upper 24 inches of the underlying material is light The Midway soil is shallow and well drained. It formed brownish gray, mottled loamy sand. The lower part to a in residuum from calcareous shale. Typically the surface depth of 60 inches is light brownish gray, mottled sandy layer is light olive brown clay about 7 inches thick. The loam. underlying material is light brownish gray cla Permeability is rapid. Available water capacity is inches thick. Depth to calcareous clayey shale is about about 13 moderate. The water table is at or near the surface in inches. spring and about 36 inches below the surface in the fall. Permeability is slow. Available water capn'ity is low. Surface runoff is slow, and the erosion hazard is low. The effective rooting depth is 10 to 20 inches. Surface ru- i The Boel soil is deep and somewhat poorly drained. It noff is rapid, and the erosion hazard is moderate to high. formed in stratified sandy alluvium. Typically the surface The Shingle soil also is shallow and well drained and layer is grayish brown loamy sand about 14 inches thick. formed in residuum from calcareous shale. Typically the The underlying material to a depth of 60 inches is pale surface layer is grayish brown loam about 6 inches thick brown and very pale brown, stratified, mottled loamy The underlying material is light yellowish brown clay sand. loam about 12 inches thick. Depth to calcareous clayey 32 SOIL SURVEY teTh are Rocky Mountain juniper, eastern redcedar, ponderosa ble years to 1.800 pounds in unfavorable years. As rang- pine, Siberian elm, Russian-olive. and hackberry. The condition deteriorates, the sand bluestem, sand reed,gras shrubs best suited are skunkbush sumac, lilac, and Siberi- and switchgrass decrease and blue grama, sand dropsee an peashrub. and sand sage increase. Annual weeds and grasses invar Wildlife is an important secondary use of this soil. The the site as range condition becomes poorer. cropland areas provide favorable habitat for ring-necked Management of vegetation on this soil should be base pheasant and mourning dove. Many nongame species can on taking half and leaving half of the total annual produ be attracted by establishing areas for nesting and escape tion. Seeding is desirable if the range is in poor eonditio cover. For pheasants, undisturbed nesting cover is essen- Sand bluestem, sand reedgrass, switchgrass, sideoa tial and should be included in plans for habitat develop- grama, blue grama, and pubescent wheatgrass are suit ment, especially in areas of intensive agriculture. ble for seeding. The grass selected should meet ti Rapid expansion of Greeley and the surrounding area seasonal requirements of livestock. It can be seeded in has resulted in urbanization of much of this Olney soil. a clean, firm sorghum stubble, or it can be drilled into This soil has good potential for urban and recreational firm prepared seedbed. Seeding early in spring h development. The only limiting feature is the moderately proven most successful. rapid permeability in the substratum, which causes a Windbreaks and environmental plantings are general hazard of ground water contamination from sewage suited to this soil. Soil blowing, the principal hazard lagoons. Lawns, shrubs, and trees grow well. Capability establishing trees and shrubs, can be controlled by ct class I irrigated. tivating only in the tree row and by leaving a strip 47—Olney fine sandy loam, 1 to 3 percent slopes. vegetation between the rows. Supplemental irrigatl This is a deep, well drained soil on plains at elevations of may be needed at the time of planting and during d 4,600 to 5,200 feet. It formed in mixed outwash deposits. periods. Trees that are best suited and have good surviv Included in mapping are small areas of soils that have a are Rocky Mountain juniper, eastern redcedar, ponder°, dark surface layer. Some small leveled areas are also in- pine, Siberian elm, Russian-olive, and hackberry. Ti eluded. shrubs best suited are skunkbush sumac, lilac, and Siber Typically the surface layer of this Olney soil is grayish an peashrub. brown fine sandy loam about 10 inches thick. The subsoil Wildlife is an important secondary use of this soil. Ti rTh is yellowish brown and very pale brown sandy clay loam cropland areas provide favorable habitat for ring-neck( about 14 inches thick. The substratum to a depth of 60 pheasant and mourning dove. Many nongame species c: inches is very pale brown, calcareous fine sandy loam. be attracted by establishing areas for nesting and escal Permeability and available water capacity are cover. For pheasants, undisturbed nesting cover is esse moderate. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or tial and should be included in plans for habitat develo. more. Surface runoff is medium, and the erosion hazard is ment, especially in areas of intensive agriculture. Rang low. land wildlife, for example, the pronghorn antelope, can I In irrigated areas this soil is suited to all crops com- attracted by developing Livestock watering facilitie monly grown in the area, including corn, sugar beets, managing livestock grazing, and reseeding where needed beans,alfalfa, small grain, potatoes, and onions. An exam- Rapid expansion of Greeley and the surrounding art ple of a suitable cropping system is 3 to 4 years of alfalfa has resulted in urbanization of much of the Olney so followed by corn, corn for silage, sugar beets, small grain, This soil has good potential for urban and reereation or beans. Land leveling, ditch lining, and installing development. The only limiting feature is the moderate pipelines may be needed for proper water application. All rapid permeability in the substratum, which causes methods of irrigation are suitable, but furrow irrigation is hazard of ground water contamination from sewa€ the most common. Barnyard manure and commercial fer- lagoons. Lawns, shrubs, and trees grow well. Capabili• tilizer are needed for top yields. subclass lie irrigated, IVe nonirrigated; Sandy Plan In nonirrigated areas this soil is suited to winter wheat, range site. barley, and sorghum. Most of the acreage is planted to 48—Olney fine sandy loam, 3 to 5 percent slope winter wheat. The predicted average yield is 28 bushels This is a deep, well drained soil on plains at elevations per acre. The soil is summer fallowed in alternate years 4,600 to 5,200 feet. It formed in mixed outwash deposit to allow moisture accumulation. Generally precipitation is Included in mapping are small areas of soils that have too low for beneficial use of fertilizer. dark surface layer and small areas of soils that ha, Stubble mulch farming, striperopping, and minimum til- sandstone and shale within a depth of 60 inches. lage are needed to control soil blowing and water erosion. Typically the surface layer of this Olney soil is grayi Terracing also may be needed to control water erosion. brown fine sandy clay loam about 8 inches thick. The su The potential native vegetation on this range site is soil is yellowish brown and very pale brown fine sane dominated by sand bluestem, sand reedgrass, and blue loam about 12 inches thick. The substratum to a depth grama. Needleandthread, switchgrass, sideoats grama, 60 inches is very pale brown, calcareous fine sandy loam and western wheatgrass are also prominent. Potential Permeability and available water capacity a- production ranges from 2,200 pounds per acre in favora- moderate. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches ( WELD COUNTY, COLORADO, SOUTHERN PART 35 and switchgrass decrease and blue grama, sand dropseed, should be grown at least 50 percent of the time. Contour and sand sage increase. Annual weeds and grasses invade ditches and corrugations can be used in irrigating close rkithe site as range condition becomes poorer. grown crops and pasture. Furrows, contour furrows, and Management of vegetation on this soil should be based cross slope furrows are suitable for row crops. Sprinkler on taking half and leaving half of the total annual produc- irrigation is also desirable. Keeping tillage to a minimum tion. Seeding is desirable if the range is in poor condition. and utilizing crop residue help to control erosion. Main- Sand bluestem, sand reedgrass. switchgrass, sideoats taining fertility is important Crops respond to applica- grama, blue grama, pubescent wheatgrass. and crested tions of phosphorus and nitrogen. vvheatgrass are suitable for seeding. The grass selected The potential native vegetation on this site is should meet the seasonal requirements of livestock. It can dominated by sand bluestem, sand reedgrass, and blue be seeded into a clean, firm stubble, or it can be drilled grama Needleandthread, switchgrass, sideoats grama, into a firm prepared seedbed. Seeding early in spring has and western wheatgrass are also prominent Potential proven most successful. production ranges from 2,200 pounds per acre in favora- Windbreaks and environmental plantings are generally ble years to 1,800 pounds in unfavorable years. As range suited to this soil. Soil blowing, the principal hazard in condition deteriorates, the sand bluestem, sand reedgrass, establishing trees and shrubs, can be controlled by cul- and switchgrass decrease, and blue grama, sand dropseed, tivating only in the tree row and by leaving a strip of and sand sage increase. Annual weeds and grasses invade vegetation between the rows. Supplemental irrigation the site as range condition becomes poorer. may be needed at the time of planting and during dry Management of vegetation on this soil should be based periods. Trees that are best suited and have good survival on taking half and leaving half of the total annual prodve- are Rocky Mountain juniper, eastern redcedar, ponderosa tion. Seeding is desirable if the range is in poor condition. pine, Siberian elm, Russian-olive, and hackberry. The Sand bluestem, sand reedgrass, switchgrass, sideoats shrubs best suited are skunkbush sumac, lilac, and Siberi- grama, blue grama, pubescent wheatgrass, and crested an peashrub. wheatgrass are suitable for seeding. The grass selected Wildlife is an important secondary use of this soil. should meet the seasonal requirements of livestock. It can Ring-necked pheasant, mourning dove, and many non- be seeded into a clean, firm sorghum stubble, or it can be game species can be attracted by establishing areas for drilled into a firm prepared seedbed. Seeding early in nesting and escape cover. For pheasants, undisturbed spring has proven most successful. nesting cover is essential and should be included in plans Windbreaks and environmental plantings are generally for habitat development, especially in areas of intensive suited to this soil. Soil blowing, the principal hazard in agriculture. establishing trees and shrubs, can be controlled by cul- Rapid expansion of Greeley and the surrounding area tinting only in the tree row and by leaving a strip of has resulted in urbanization of much of this Otero soil. vegetation between the rows. Supplemental irrigation This soil has excellent potential for urban and recrea- may be needed at the time of planting and during dry tional development. The only. limiting feature is the periods. Trees that are best suited and have good survival moderately rapid permeability in the substratum, which are Rocky Mountain juniper, eastern redcedar, ponderosa causes a hazard of ground water contamination from pine, Siberian elm, Russian-olive, and hackberry. The sewage lagoons. Lawns, shrubs, and trees grow well. shrubs best suited are skunkbush sumac, lilac, and Siberi- Capability subclass IIIe irrigated, IVe nonirrigated; an peashrub. Sandy Plains range site. Wildlife is an important secondary use of this soil. 52—Otero sandy loam, 3 to 5 percent slopes. This is a Ring-necked pheasant, mourning dove, and many non- deep, well drained soil on plains at elevations of 4,700 to game species can be attracted by establishing areas for 5,250 feet. It formed in mixed outwash and eolian nesting and escape cover. For pheasants, undisturbed deposits. Included in mapping are small areas of soils that nesting cover is essential and should be included in plans have loam and clay loam underlying material. Also in- for habitat development, especially in areas of intensive eluded 'are small areas of soils that have sandstone and agriculture. shale within a depth of 60 inches. Rapid expansion of Greeley and the surrounding area Typically the surface layer of this Otero soil is brown has resulted in urbanization of much of this Otero soil. sandy loam about 10 inches thick. The underlying material The soil has excellent potential for urban and recreational to a depth of 60 inches is pale brown calcareous fine development. The only limiting feature is the moderately sandy loam. rapid permeabillity in the substratum, which causes a Permeability is rapid. Available water capacity is hazard of ground water contamination from sewage moderate. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or lagoons. Lawns, shrubs, and trees grow well. Capability more. Surface runoff is medium. and the erosion hazard is subclass IIIe irrigated, VIe nonirrigated; Sandy Plains low. range site. This soil is used almost entirely for irrigated crops. It 53—Otero sandy loam, 5 to 9 percent slopes. This is a is suited to the crops commonly grown in the area. deep, well drained soil on plains at elevations of 4,700 to ert'erennial grasses and alfalfa or close growing crops 5,250 feet. It formed in mixed outwash and eolian r rTh WELD COUNTY, COLORADO, SOUTHERN PART 41 The potential native vegetation on this range site is This soil is suited to limited cropping. Intensive (ninated by sand bluestem. sand reedgrass. and blue cropping is hazardous because of erosion. The cropping -ama. Needleandthread, switchgrass, sideoats grama, system should be limited to such close grown crops as al- and western wheatgrass are also prominent. Potential falfa, wheat, and barley. The soil is also suited to ir- production ranges from 2,200 pounds per acre in favora- rigated pasture. A suitable cropping system is 3 to 4 ble years to 1,800 pounds in unfavorable years. As range years of alfalfa followed by 2 years of corn and small condition deteriorates, the sand bluestem, sand reedgrass, grain and alfalfa seeded with a nurse crop. and switchgrass decrease and blue grama, sand dropseed. Closely spaced contour ditches or sprinklers can be and sand sage increase. Annual weeds and grasses invade used in irrigating close grown crops. Contour furrows or the site as range condition becomes poorer. sprinklers should be used for new crops. Applications of Management of vegetation on this soil should be based nitrogen and phosphorus help in maintaining good produc- on taking half and leaving half of the total annual produc- tion. tion.. Seeding is desirable if the range is in poor condition. The potential native vegetation on this range site is Sand bluestem, sand reedgrass, switchgrass, sideoats dominated by sand bluestem, sand reedgrass, and blue grama, blue grams, pubescent wheatgrass, and crested grama. Needleandthread, switchgrass, sideoats grama, wheatgrass are suitable for seeding. The grass selected and western wheatgrass are also prominent Potential should meet the seasonal requirements of livestock. It can production ranges from 2,200 pounds per acre in favors- be seeded into a clean, firm sorghum stubble or it can be ble years to 1,800 pounds in unfavorable years. As range drilled into a firm prepared seedbed. Seeding early in condition deteriorates, the sand bluestem, sand reedgrass, spring has proven most successful. and switchgrass decrease and blue grams, sand dropseed, Windbreaks and environmental plantings are generally and sand sage increase. Annual weeds and grasses invade not suited to this soil. Onsite investigation is needed to the site as range condition becomes poorer. determine if plantings are feasible. Management of vegetation on this soil should be based Wildlife is an important secondary use of this soil. The on taking half and leaving half of the total annual produc- cropland areas provide favorable habitat for ring-necked tion. Seeding is desirable if the range is in poor condition. pheasant and mourning dove. Many nongame species can Sand bluestem, sand reedgrass, switchgrass, sideoats be attracted by establishing areas for nesting and escape grams, blue grama, pubescent wheatgrass, and crested cover. For pheasants, undisturbed nesting cover is essen- wheatgrass are suitable for seeding. The grass selected and should be included in plans for habitat develop- should meet the seasonal requirements of livestock. It can it, especially in areas of intensive agriculture. Range- be seeded into a clean, firm sorghum stubble, or it can be Land wildlife, for example, the pronghorn antelope, can be drilled into a firm.. prepared seedbed. Seeding early in attracted by developing livestock watering facilities, spring has proven most successful. managing livestock grazing, and reseeding where needed. Windbreaks and environmental plantings are generally The underlying sandstone is the most limiting feature not suited to this soil. Onsite investigation is needed to of this soil. Neither septic tank absorption fields nor determine if plantings are feasible. sewage lagoons function properly. Site preparation for Wildlife is an important secondary use of this soiL The dwellings is costly. Enviornmental and beautification cropland areas provide favorable habitat for ring-necked plantings of trees and shrubs can be difficult to establish. pheasant and mourning dove. Many nongame species can Potential is good, however, for such recreational develop- be attracted by establishing areas for nesting and escape merit as camp and picnic areas and playgrounds. Capabili- cover. For pheasants, undisturbed nesting cover is essen- ty subclass IVe irrigated, IVe nonirrigated; Sandy Plains tial and should be included in plans for habitat develop- range site. ment, especially, in areas of intensive agriculture. Range- 63—Terry fine sandy loam, 3 to 9 percent slopes. This land wildlife, for example, the pronghorn antelope, can be is a moderately deep, well drained soil on plains at eleva- attracted by developing livestock watering facilities, tions of 4,500 to 5,000 feet. It formed in residuum from managing livestock grazing, and reseeding where needed. sandstone. Included in mapping are small areas of soils The underlying sandstone is the most limiting feature that have sandstone deeper than 40 inches. Also included of this soil. Neither septic tank absorption fields nor are small areas of soils that have a sandy clay loam and sewage lagoons function properly. Site preparation for clay loam subsoil. dwellings is costly. Environmental and beautification Typically the surface layer of this Terry soil is pale plantings of trees and shrubs can be difficult to establish. brown fine sandy loam about 6 inches thick. The subsoil is Potential is good, however, for such recreational develop- pale brown fine sandy loam about 18 inches thick. The ment as camp and picnic areas. Capability subclass IVe ir- substratum is fine sandy loam. Sandstone is at a depth of rigated. VIe nonirrigated: Sandy Plains range site. about 32 inches. 64—Thedalund loam. 1 to 3 percent slopes. This is a Permeability is moderately rapid. Available water moderately deep, well drained soil on plains at elevations capacity is moderate. The effective rooting depth is 20 to of 4.900 to 5,250 feet. It formed in residuum from shale. e'Snches. Surface runoff is medium to rapid, and the ero- Included in mapping are small areas of soils that have . hazard is moderate. shale and sandstone deeper than 40 inches. 42 SOIL SURVEY Typ cally he urface r is loam t 8 The is�+,, inches lth ck.tThesu derlyingematerial is palebrownuand this soil. Neithersepticetankthe most miting feture of absorption fiedsnorasewage P very pale brown loam. Shale is at a depth of about 28 lagoons function properly. In places the underlying shale inches. has high shrink-swell potential. Environmental and beau- Permeability and available water capacity are tification plantings of trees and shrubs can be difficult to moderate. The effective rooting depth is 20 to 40 inches. establish. Capability subclass IVs irrigated; IVe nonir- Surface runoff is medium, and the erosion hazard is low. rigated: Loamy Plains range site. This soil is suited to limited cropping. A suitable 65—Thedalund loam„ 3 to 9 percent slopes. This is a cropping system is 3 to 4 years of alfalfa followed by 2 moderately deep, well drained'soil on plains at elevations years of corn and small grain and alfalfa seeded with a of 4,900 to 5,250 feet. It formed in residuum from shale. nurse crop. Incorporating plant residue and manure im- Included in mapping are small areas of soils that have proves tilth and provides organic matter and plant shale and sandstone deeper than 40 inches. Some small nutrients. outcrops of shale and sandstone are also included. Most irrigation methods are suitable, but the length of Typically the surface layer of this Thedalund soil is runs should be short to prevent overirrigation. Light, brown loam about 8 inches thick. The underlying material frequent irrigations are best. Sprinkler irrigation is is pale brown and very pale brown loam. Shale is at a desirable. Commercial fertilizers increase yields and add depth of about 25 inches. Permeability and available water capacity are to the value of the forage produced. In nonirrigated areas this soil is suited to winter wheat, moderate. The effective rooting depth is 20 to 40 inches. Surface runoff is medium to rapid, and the erosion hazard barley, and sorghum. Most of the acreage is planted to winter wheat. The predicted average yield is 25 bushels is moderate. per acre. The soil is summer fallowed in alternate years This soil is suited to limited cropping. Intensive to allow moisture accumulation. Generally precipitation is cropping is hazardous because of erosion. The cropping system should be limited to such close grown crops as al- too low for beneficial use of fertilizer. Stubble mulch farming, striperopping, and minimum ti]- falfa, wheat, and barley. The soil is also suited to ir- lage are needed to control soil blowing and water erosion. rigated pasture. A suitable cropping system is 3 to 4 Terracing also may be needed to control water erosion. years of alfalfa followed by 2 years of corn and small The potential native vegetation i,s dominated by blue grain and alfalfa seeded with a nurse crop. grama. Several mid grasses, such as western wheatgrass Closely spaced contour ditches or sprinklers can be r, and needleandthread, are also present. Potential produc- used in irrigating close grown crops. Contour furrows or tion ranges from 1,600 pounds per acre in favorable years sprinklers should be used for new crops. Application of to 1,000 pounds in unfavorable years. As range condition commercial fertilizer helps in maintaining good produc- deteriorates, the mid grasses decrease; blue grama, buf- tion. falograss, snakeweed, yucca, and fringed sage increase; gThe potential native vegetation is dominated by blue and forage production drops. Undesirable weeds and an- and nea. Several mid grasses, such as western ial produc- nuals invade the site as range condition becomes poorer. and needleandthread, are also present. Potential Management of vegetation on this soil should be based tion ranges from 1,600 pounds per acre in favorable years on taking half and leaving half of the total annual produc- dto a1, for00 tpes. theds in unfavorable decrease;years. range condition buf- tion. Seeding is desirable if the range is in poor condition. deteriorates, mid grasses ua blue grama, Sideoats grama, little bluestem, western wheatgrass, and forage ass, snakeweed, drops. and suable sage increase; blue and production drops. Undesirable weeds and an- grama,suitable seeding.pubescentwheatgrass, atgrass, and crested wheatgrass are nuals invade the site as range condition becomes poorer. grass selected should meet the Management of vegetation on this soil should be based seasonal requirements of livestock. It can be seeded into on taking half and leaving half of the total annual produc- a clean, firm sorghum stubble, or it can be drilled into a tion. Seeding is desirable if the range is in poor condition. firm prepared seedbed. Seeding early in spring has Sideoats grama, little bluestem, western wheatgrass, blue proven most successful. Windbreaks and are generall grama, pubescent wheatgrass, and crested wheatgrass are not suited k this a environmentaloil. Onsite in plantings aigation is needed r to suitable for seeding. The grass selected should meet the seasonal requirements of livestock. It can be seeded into determine if plantings are feasible. Rangeland wildlife, such as antelope, cottontail, and a clean, firm sorghum stubble, or it can be drilled into a coyote, are best suited to this soil. Because forage produc- proven prepared mstu seedbed. Seeding early in spring has tion is typically low, grazing management is needed if W most successful. livestock and wildlife share the range. Livestock watering not suited to this ad oil.Onsite investigation nl plantings is se generally dt an soil. fen needed to facilities also are utilized by various wildlife species. The determine if plantings are feasible. cropland areas provide favorable habitat for pheasant and Rangeland wildlife, such as antelope, cottontail, and Smourning dove. Many nongame species can be attracted coyote, are best suited to this soil. Because forage produc- by establishing areas for nesting and escape cover. tion is typically low, grazing management is needed if /^* "'1 WELD COUNTY, COLORADO. SOUTHERN PART 43 livestock and wildlife share the range. Livestock watering ing. The grass selected should meet the seasonal require- facilities also are utilized by various wildlife species. The ments of livestock. It can be seeded into a clean, firm 1 cropland areas provide favorable habitat for pheasant and sorghum stubble, or it can be drilled into a firm prepared mourning dove. Many nongame species can be attracted seedbed. Seeding early in spring has proven most success- by establishing areas for nesting and escape cover. ful. The underlying shale is the most limiting feature of Windbreaks and environmental plantings of trees and this soil. Neither septic tank absorption fields nor sewage shrubs commmoniy grown in the area are generally well lagoons function properly. In places the underlying shale suited to this soil. Cultivation to control competing has high shrink-swell potential. Environmental and beau- vegetation should be continued for as many years as tification plantings of trees and shrubs can be difficult to possible following planting. Trees that are best suited and establish. Capability subclass IVe irrigated, VIe nonir- have good survival are Rocky Mountain juniper, eastern rigated: Loamy Plains range site. redcedar, ponderosa pine, Siberian elm, Russian-olive, and 66—Ulm clay loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes. This is a hackberry. The shrubs best suited are skunkbush sumac, deep, well drained soil on plains at elevations of 5,075 to lilac, Siberian peashrub, and American plum. 5.200 feet. It formed in alluvial and eolian sediments from Wildlife is an important secondary use of this soil. The shale. Included in mapping are small areas of soils that cropland areas provide favorable habitat for ring-necked have shale between 40 and 60 inches. Also included are pheasant and mourning dove. Many nongame species can small areas of soils where the surface layer and subsoil be attracted by establishing areas for nesting and escape have been recharged with lime from irrigation. cover. For pheasants, undisturbed nesting cover is essen- Typically the surface layer of this Ulm soil is brown tial and should be included in plans for habitat develop- clay loam about 5 inches thick. The subsoil is brown and ment, especially in areas of intensive agriculture. Range- pale brown clay about 14 inches thick. The substratum to land wildlife, for example, the pronghorn antelope, can be a depth of 60 inches is clay and clay loam. attracted by developing livestock watering facilities, Permeability is slow. Available water capacity is high. managing livestock grazing, and reseeding where needed. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more. Surface This soil has poor potential for urban and recreational runoff is medium, and the erosion hazard is low. development. Slow permeability and high shrink swell In irrigated areas this soil is suited to all crops com- cause problems in dwelling and road construction„ Capa- monly grown in the area, including corn, sugar beets, bility subclass IIe irrigated, IVe nonirrigated; Clayey beans, alfalfa, and small grain. An example of a suitable Plains range site. (1\ cropping system is 3 to 4 years of alfalfa followed by 67.—Ulm clay loam, 3 to 5 percent slopes. This is a 1 corn, corn for silage, sugar beets, small grain, or beans. deep, well drained soil on plains at elevations of 5,075 to Land leveling, ditch lining, and installing pipelines are 5,200 feet. It formed in alluvial and eolian sediments from needed for proper water applications. shale. Included in mapping are small areas of soils that All methods of irrigation are suitable, but furrow ir- have shale between depths of 40 and 60 inches. Also in- rigation is the most common. Barnyard manure and com- eluded are small areas of soils where the surface layer mercial fertilizer are needed for top yields. and subsoil have been recharged with lime from irriga- In nonirrigated areas this soil is suited to winter wheat, tion. barley, and sorghum. Most of the acreage is planted to Typically the surface of this Ulm soil is brown clay winter wheat. The predicted average yield is 28 bushels loam about 5 inches thick. The subsoil is brown and pale per acre. The soil is summer fallowed in alternate years brown clay about 12 inches thick. The substratum to a to allow moisture accumulation. Generally precipitation is depth of 60 inches is clay and clay loam. too low for beneficial use of fertilizer. Permeability is slow. Available water capacity is high. Stubble mulch farming, striperopping, and minimum til- The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more. Surface lage are needed to control soil blowing and water erosion. runoff is medium, and the erosion hazard is moderate. Terracing also may be needed to control water erosion. In irrigated areas this soil is suited to the crops corn- The potential native vegetation is dominated by monly grown in the area. Perennial grasses and alfalfa or western wheatgrass and blue grama. Buffalograss is also close grown crops should be grown at least 50 percent of present. Potential production ranges from 1,000 pounds the time. Contour ditches and corrugations can be used in per acre in favorable years to 600 pounds in unfavorable irrigating close grown crops and pasture. Furrows, con- years. As range condition deteriorates, a blue grama-buf- tour furrows, and cross slope furrows are suitable for row falograss sod forms. Undesirable weeds and annuals in- crops. Sprinkler irrigation is also desirable. Keeping til- vade the site as range condition becomes poorer. lage to a minimum and utilizing crop residue help to con- Management of vegetation on this soil should be based trol erosion. Maintaining fertility is important. Crops on taking half and leaving half of the total annual produc- respond to applications of phosphorus and nitrogen. tion. Range pitting can reduce runoff. Seeding is desirable In nonirrigated areas this soil is suited to winter wheat, if the range is in poor condition. Western wheatgrass, barley, and sorghum. Most of the acreage is planted to blue grama, sideoats grama, buffalograss, pubescent winter wheat. The predicted average yield is 28 bushels wheatgrass, and crested wheatgrass are suitable for seed- per acre. The soil is summer fallowed in alternate years Hello