HomeMy WebLinkAbout20080391.tiff 12 • • Soil survey
• The potential plant community on this unit is mainly use on this unit are proper range use, deferred grazing,
blue grama, needleandthread, western wheatgrass, and and rotation grazing. If the plant cover is disturbed,
prairie sandreed. The average annual production of air- protection from erosion is needed. Loss of the surface
dry vegetation ranges from 500 to 1,600 pounds. layer results in a severe decrease in productivity and in
If the range is overgrazed, the proportion of preferred the potential of the soil to produce plants suitable for
forage plants decreases and the proportion of less grazing.
preferred forage plants increases. Therefore, livestock This unit is well suited to windbreaks and
grazing should be managed so that the desired balance environmental plantings. Supplemental irrigation may be
of preferred species is maintained in the plant needed when planting and during dry periods.
community. This map unit is in capability subclass Vle,
Range seeding is suitable if the range is in poor nonirrigated, and in Loamy Plains range site.
condition. The plants selected for seeding should meet
the seasonal requirements of livestock or wildlife, or 3-ArglustollsaRock outcrop complex, 0 to 9
both. Other management practices that are suitable for percent slopes.This map unit is on slightly dissected to
use on this unit are proper range use, deferred grazing, moderately dissected plains.
and rotation grazing. If the plant cover is disturbed, This unit is about 45 percent Argiustolls and about 35
protection from erosion is needed. Loss of the surface percent Rock outcrop. The individual components of this
layer results in a severe decrease in productivity and in unit are in areas so narrow that it was not practical to
the potential of the soil to produce plants suitable for map them separately at the scale used.
grazing. Included in this unit are small areas of Olney, Renohill,
This unit is well suited to windbreaks and and Stoneham soils. Included areas make up about 20
environmental plantings. Supplemental irrigation may be percent of the total acreage.
needed when planting and during dry periods. Argiustolls are deep, well drained, dark-colored soils.
This map unit is in capability subclass IVe, The surface layer is loam, fine sandy loam, or silt loam.
nonirrigated, and in Loamy Plains range site. The subsoil is sandy clay loam, clay loam, or silty clay
loam. The content of clay in the subsoil increases with
2—Altvan fine sandy loam, 6 to 9 percent slopes. depth. The substratum is calcareous loam, silt loam, or
This deep, well drained soil is on highly dissected plains. sandy loam.
•It formed in calcareous gravelly alluvium. Permeability of the Argiustolls is moderate. Available
Typically, the surface layer is dark grayish brown fine water capacity is moderate to high. Effective rooting
sandy loam 3 inches thick. The subsoil is sandy clay depth is 60 inches or more. Runoff is medium to rapid,
loam 16 inches thick. The substratum is calcareous and the hazard of water erosion is slight to high. The
sandy clay loam 4 inches thick over gravelly coarse sand hazard of soil blowing is moderate.
that extends to a depth of 60 inches or more. In some Rock outcrop consists mainly of exposed areas of
areas the surface layer is loam. sandstone scattered throughout the unit.
Included in this unit are small areas of Ascalon fine This unit is used as rangeland.
sandy loam, Peetz gravelly sandy loam, and Cascajo The potential plant community on the Argiustolls is
gravelly sandy loam. mainly blue grama, western wheatgrass, sedges, and
Permeability of this Altvan soil is moderate. Available buffalograss. The average annual production of air-dry
water capacity is moderate. Effective rooting depth is 60 vegetation ranges from 400 to 1,500 pounds.
inches or more. Runoff is medium, and the hazard of If the range is overgrazed, the proportion of preferred
water erosion is high. The hazard of soil blowing is forage plants decreases and the proportion of less
moderate. preferred forage plants increases. Therefore, livestock
This unit is used as rangeland. grazing should be managed so that the desired balance
The potential plant community on this unit is mainly of preferred species is maintained in the plant
blue grama, needleandthread, western wheatgrass, and community.
prairie sandreed. The average annual production of air- Management practices that are suitable for use on this
dry vegetation ranges from 400 to 1,400 pounds. unit are proper range use, deferred grazing, and rotation
If the range is overgrazed, the proportion of preferred grazing. If the plant cover is disturbed, protection from
forage plants decreases and the proportion of less erosion is needed. Loss of the surface layer results in a
preferred forage plants increases. Therefore, livestock severe decrease in productivity and in the potential of
grazing should be managed so that the desired balance the soil to produce plants suitable for grazing.
of preferred species is maintained in the plant This unit is poorly suited to windbreaks and
community. environmental plantings. It is limited mainly by the areas
Range seeding is suitable if the range is in poor of Rock outcrop.
condition. The plants selected for seeding should meet This map unit is in capability subclass Vis,
lithe seasonal requirements of livestock or wildlife, or nonirrigated. The Argiustolls are in Loamy Plains range
both. Other management practices that are suitable for site.
2008-0391
• •
Weld County, Colorado, Northern Part 17
Ilkle seasonal requirements of livestock or wildlife, or soil is subject to brief periods of flooding in spring and
both. Salt-tolerant grasses can be grown. Other summer.
management practices that are suitable for use on this This unit is used as rangeland.
unit are proper range use, deferred grazing, and rotation The potential plant community on this unit is mainly
grazing. Livestock grazing should be managed to protect switchgrass, Indiangrass, sand bluestem, and prairie
the soil in this unit from excessive erosion. Loss of the sandreed. The average annual production of air-dry
surface layer results in a severe decrease in productivity vegetation ranges from 1,200 to 2,500 pounds.
and in the potential of the unit to produce plants suitable If the range is overgrazed, the proportion of preferred
for grazing. forage plants decreases and the proportion of less
The Avar soil is poorly suited to windbreaks and preferred forage plants increases. Therefore, livestock
environmental plantings. The main limitations are grazing should be managed so that the desired balance
restricted root growth and decreased available water of preferred species is maintained in the plant
capacity because of the strong alkalinity and salinity of community.
the subsoil and substratum. Range seeding is suitable if the range is in poor
The Manzanola soil is well suited to windbreaks and condition. The plants selected for seeding should meet
environmental plantings. It has few limitations. the seasonal requirements of livestock or wildlife, or
Supplemental irrigation may be needed when planting both. Other management practices that are suitable for
and during dry periods. Summer fallow, cultivation for use on this unit are proper range use, deferred grazing,
weed control, and selection of adapted plants are and rotation grazing. Livestock grazing should be
needed to insure establishment and survival of managed to protect the soil in this unit from excessive
seedlings. erosion.
This map unit is in capability subclass Vls, This unit is poorly suited to windbreaks and
nonirrigated. The Avar soil is in Salt Flat range site, and environmental plantings.
the Manzanola soil is in Clayey Plains range site. This map unit is in capability subclass Vlw,
nonirrigated, and in Sandy Bottomland range site.
11—Badland. Badland is mainly in the northern part of
the survey area. It consists of gently sloping to steep 13—Blakeland loamy sand, 0 to 6 percent slopes:
ereas dissected by many intermittent channels that are This deep, somewhat excessively drained soil is on
ntrenched in calcareous soft siltstone, soft claystone, alluvial and colluvial fans. It formed in arkosic sandy
and fine-grained sandstone of the White River alluvium and colluvium.
Formation. About 75 percent or more of the unit is Typically, the surface layer is dark grayish brown
barren. Runoff is very high, and the hazard of erosion is loamy sand 15 inches thick. The underlying material to a
very high. depth of 60 inches or more is loamy sand.
Included in this unit are small areas of Kim and Included in this unit are small areas of Bushman fine
Mitchell soils, Thedalund and Keota loams, Shingle clay sandy loam, Bresser sandy loam, and Paoli fine sandy
loam, Epping silt loam, and Haverson loam. These soils loam. Included areas make up about 15 percent of the
support some vegetation that has limited value for total acreage.
livestock grazing and wildlife habitat. Permeability of this Blakeland soil is rapid. Available
This map unit is in capability subclass Ville, water capacity is moderate. Effective rooting depth is 60
nonirrigated. inches or more. Runoff is slow, and the hazard of water
erosion is slight. The hazard of soil blowing is high.
12—Bankard loamy fine sand, 0 to 3 percent This unit is used as rangeland.
slopes. This deep, well drained to somewhat excessively The potential plant community on this unit is mainly
drained soil is on flood plains. It formed in stratified, blue grama, sand bluestem, prairie sandreed, and
calcareous sandy alluvium. needleandthread. The average annual production of air-
Typically, the surface layer is brown loamy fine sand 6 dry vegetation ranges from 800 to 2,000 pounds.
inches thick. The upper part of the underlying material is If the range is overgrazed, the proportion of preferred
loamy sand and sand 28 inches thick, and the lower part forage plants decreases and the proportion of less
to a depth of 60 inches or more is gravelly sand and preferred forage plants increases. Therefore, livestock
very gravelly sand that is stratified with thin lenses of grazing should be managed so that the desired balance
sand, sandy loam, and loam. In some areas the surface of preferred species is maintained in the plant
layer is sandy loam or loam. community.
Included in this unit are small areas of sand and gravel Range seeding is suitable if the range is in poor
bars. condition. The plants selected for seeding should meet
Permeability of this Bankard soil is rapid. Available the seasonal requirements of livestock or wildlife, or
�water capacity is low. Effective rooting depth is 60 both. Other management practices that are suitable for
ches or more. Runoff is slow, and the hazard of water use on this unit are proper range use, deferred grazing,
erosion is slight. The hazard of soil blowing is high. This and rotation grazing. If the plant cover is disturbed,
18 • • Soil survey
protection from soil blowing is needed. Loss of the cover. Supplemental irrigation may be needed when
surface layer results in a severe decrease in productivity planting and during dry periods.
and in the potential of the soil to produce plants suitable This unit is moderately to severely limited for urban
for grazing. development, mainly because of steepness of slope.
This unit is well suited to windbreaks and This map unit is in capability subclass Vle,
environmental plantings. The main limitations are the nonirrigated, and in Deep Sand range site.
moderate available water capacity and the hazard of soil
blowing. Trees need to be planted among the native 15—Bresser sandy loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes.
vegetation to minimize disturbance of the plant cover. This deep, well drained soil is on smooth to moderately
Supplemental irrigation may be needed when planting dissected high plains. It formed in sandy alluvium.
and during dry periods. Typically, the surface layer is dark grayish brown
This unit is suited to urban development. It has few coarse sandy loam 15 inches thick. The subsoil is sandy
limitations. clay loam 22 inches thick. The substratum to a depth of
This map unit is in capability subclass Vie, 60 inches or more is loamy coarse sand. In some areas
nonirrigated, and in Deep Sand range site. the surface layer is loamy coarse sand.
Included in this unit are small areas of Altvan fine
14—Blakeland loamy sand, 6 to 12 percent slopes. sandy loam.
This deep, somewhat excessively drained soil is on Permeability of this Bresser soil is moderate. Available
alluvial and colluvial fans. It formed in arkosic sandy water capacity is moderate. Effective rooting depth is 60
alluvium and colluvium. inches or more. Runoff is slow to medium, and the
hazard of water erosion is slight. The hazard of soil
Typically, the surface layer is dark grayish brown
loamy sand 12 inches thick. The underlying material to a blowing is moderate.
depth of 60 inches or more is loamy sand. This unit is used as nonirrigated cropland and
Included in this unit are small areas of Bushman fine rangeland. Winter wheat is the main crop.
sandy loam, Bresser sandy loam, and Eckley sandy clay This unit is well suited to winter wheat, barley, oats,
loam. Included areas make up about 15 percent of the and sorghum. Because precipitation is not sufficient for
total acreage. annual cropping, a cropping system that includes small
Permeability of this Blakeland soil is rapid. Available grain and summer fallow is most suitable. Precipitation
enater capacity is moderate. Effective rooting depth is 60 usually is too low for crops on this unit to make efficient
ches or more. Runoff is slow, and the hazard of water use of fertilizer.
erosion is moderate to high. The hazard of soil blowing Maintaining crop residue or near the surface
is high. reduces soil blowing and helps to maintain soil tilth and
This unit is used as rangeland. organic matter content. Stubble-mulch farming,
The potential plant community on this unit is mainly striperopping, and minimum tillage help to control erosion
blue grama, sand bluestem, prairie sandreed, and and conserve moisture. Terraces reduce runoff and the
needleandthread. The average annual production of air- risk af otti l l help to conserve moisture.ii
dry vegetation ranges from 700 to 1,800 pounds. The potential plant community on this unit is mainly
If the range is overgrazed, the proportion of preferred averlue ggre annual n, needleandthread,ion ofand prairie vegetation ranges
an. The
forage plants decreases and the proportion of less average production of air-dry
preferred forage plants increases. Therefore, livestock from 800 to e,is overgrazed,0 gnds.
grazing should be managed so that the desired balance foraIf the e range e v the proportion of preferred
of preferred species is maintained in the plant preferred e plants decreases increases.ane the Therefore,eon lfivestock
less
forage plants livestock
community. grazing should be managed so that the desired balance
Range seeding is suitable if the range is in poor of preferred species is maintained in the plant
condition. The plants selected for seeding should meet community.
the seasonal requirements of livestock or wildlife, or Range seeding is suitable if the range is in poor
both. Other management practices that are suitable for condition. The plants selected for seeding should meet
use on this unit are proper range use, deferred grazing, the seasonal requirements of livestock or wildlife, or
and rotation grazing. If the plant cover is disturbed, both. Other management practices that are suitable for
protection from erosion is needed. Loss of the surface use on this unit are proper range use, deferred grazing,
layer results in a severe decrease in productivity and in and rotation grazing. If the plant cover is disturbed,
the potential of the soil to produce plants suitable for protection from erosion is needed. Loss of the surface
grazing. layer results in a severe decrease in productivity and in
This unit is well suited to windbreaks and the potential of the soil to produce plants suitable for
environmental plantings. The main limitations are the grazing.
moderate available water capacity and the high hazard This unit is well suited to windbreaks and
iron blowing. Trees need to be planted among the environmental plantings. Supplemental irrigation may be
ative vegetation to minimize disturbance of the plant needed when planting and during dry periods.
• •
Soil survey
34
• hazard of water erosion is slight. The hazard of soil gravelly underlying material, Kim and Mitchell soils,
blowing is moderate. Bushman fine sandy loam, and soils that have slopes of
Most areas of this unit are used as rangeland. A few less than 3 percent. Included areas make up about 20
areas are used as nonirrigated cropland. Winter wheat is percent of the total acreage.
the main crop. Permeability of this Otero soil is moderately rapid.
The potential plant community on this unit is mainly Available water capacity is moderate. Effective rooting
blue grama, prairie sandreed, and needleandthread. The depth is 60 inches or more. Runoff is medium, and the
average annual production of air-dry vegetation ranges hazard of water erosion is moderate to high. The hazard
from 800 to 2,000 pounds. of soil blowing is moderate.
If the range is overgrazed, the proportion of preferred This unit is used as rangeland.
forage plants decreases and the proportion of less The potential plant community on this unit is mainly
preferred forage plants increases. Therefore, livestock blue grama, prairie sandreed, and needleandthread. The
grazing should be managed so that the desired balance average annual production of air-dry vegetation ranges
of preferred species is maintained in the plant from 700 to 1,800 pounds.
community. If the range is overgrazed, the proportion of preferred
Range seeding is suitable if the range is in poor forage plants decreases and the proportion of less
condition. The plants selected for seeding should meet preferred forage plants increases. Therefore, livestock
the seasonal requirements of livestock or wildlife, or grazing should be managed so that the desired balance
both. Other management practices that are suitable for of preferred species is maintained in the plant
use on this unit are proper range use, deferred grazing, community.
and rotation grazing. If the plant cover is disturbed, Range seeding is suitable if the range is in poor
protection from soil blowing is needed. Loss of the condition. The plants selected for seeding should meet
surface layer results in a severe decrease in productivity the seasonal requirements of livestock or wildlife, or
and in the potential of the soil to produce plants suitable both. Other management practices that are suitable for
for grazing. use on this unit are proper range use, deferred grazing,
This unit is suited to winter wheat, barley, oats, and and rotation grazing. If the plant cover is disturbed,
sorghum. Because precipitation is not sufficient for protection from erosion is needed. Loss of the surface
• annual cropping, a cropping system that includes small layer results in a severe decrease in productivity and in
grain and summer fallow is most suitable. Precipitation the potential of the soil to produce plants suitable for
usually is too low for crops on this unit to make efficient grazing.
use of fertilizer. This unit is well suited to windbreaks and
Maintaining crop residue on or near the surface environmental plantings. It is limited mainly by the hazard
reduces runoff, reduces soil blowing, and helps to of soil blowing where the surface layer is barren of
maintain soil tilth and organic matter content. Stubble- vegetation. Soil blowing can be reduced by cultivating
mulch farming, striperopping, and minimum tillage help to only in the tree rows and by leaving a strip of vegetation
control erosion and conserve moisture. Terraces reduce between the rows. Supplemental irrigation may be
runoff and the risk of erosion and help to conserve needed when planting and during dry periods.
moisture. This map unit is in capability subclass Vle,
This unit is well suited to windbreaks and nonirrigated, and in Sandy Plains range site.
environmental plantings. It is limited mainly by the hazard
of soil blowing where the surface layer is barren of 48—Otero-Tassel complex, 6 to 30 percent slopes.
vegetation. Soil blowing can be reduced by cultivating This map unit is on highly dissected, convex shoulders
only in the tree rows and by leaving a strip of vegetation and slightly dissected to highly dissected, concave
between the rows. Supplemental irrigation may be backslopes and foot slopes of breaks.
needed when planting and during dry periods. This unit is about 50 percent Otero sandy loam and
This map unit is in capability subclass IVe, about 25 percent Tassel loamy fine sand. The Otero soil
nonirrigated, and in Sandy Plains range site. is on the backslopes and foot slopes, and the Tassel soil
is on the shoulders. The individual components of this
47—Otero sandy loam, 3 to 9 percent slopes. This unit are in areas so narrow that it was not practical to
deep, well drained soil is on moderately dissected to map them separately at the scale used.
highly dissected plains and fans. It formed in calcareous Included in this unit are small areas of Kim loam in
loamy alluvium and colluvium. drainageways between foot slopes; Rock outcrop on
Typically, the surface layer is brown sandy loam 5 shoulders; and soils, on backslopes, that are moderately
inches thick. The underlying material to a depth of 60 deep to calcareous sandstone. Included areas make up
inches or more is sandy loam. The soil is calcareous 25 percent of the total acreage.
• throughout. The Otero soil is deep and well drained. It formed in
Included in this unit are small areas of Stoneham fine calcareous loamy alluvium. Typically, the surface layer is
sandy loam, soils that have a gravelly surface layer or brown sandy loam 5 inches thick. The underlying
• •
36 Soil survey
• Supplemental irrigation may be needed when planting on backslopes and shoulders of moderately dissected to
and during dry periods. Summer fallow, cultivation for highly dissected upland ridges and breaks. It formed in
weed control, and selection of adapted plants are calcareous gravelly alluvium. Slopes are convex. Areas
needed to insure establishment and survival of are nearly linear in shape and are 20 to 1,000 acres in
seedlings. size.
This map unit is in capability subclass IVe, Typically, 15 to 35 percent of the surface is covered
nonirrigated, and in Sandy Plains range site. with gravel and cobbles. Typically, the upper part of the
surface layer is grayish brown gravelly sandy loam 4
50—Paoli fine sandy loam, 6 to 9 percent slopes. inches thick, and the lower part is brown very gravelly
This deep, well drained soil is on moderately dissected loamy sand 4 inches thick. The underlying material to a
to highly dissected fans. It formed in calcareous loamy depth of 60 inches or more is calcareous very gravelly
alluvium and colluvium. Slopes are concave. sand.
Typically, the surface layer is brown fine sandy loam Included in this unit are small areas of Altvan sandy
13 inches thick. It is calcareous in the lower part. The loam on the tops of upland ridges and breaks; Rock
underlying material to a depth of 60 inches or more is outcrop on shoulders of upland ridges and breaks;
calcareous sandy loam or coarse sandy loam. Bushman fine sandy loam on backslopes and foot
Included in this unit are small areas of soils that have slopes of upland ridges and breaks; and Ascalon fine
a surface layer of loamy sand, soils that are sandy loam and Wages fine sandy loam on foot slopes
noncalcareous, soils that have restricted drainage, and of upland ridges and breaks. Included areas make up
soils that have slopes of less than 6 percent. Included about 20 percent of the total acreage.
areas make up about 15 percent of the total acreage. Permeability of this Peetz soil is rapid. Available water
Permeability of this Paoli soil is moderately rapid to a capacity is moderate. Effective rooting depth is 60
depth of 13 inches and rapid below this depth. Available inches or more. Runoff is slow, and the hazard of water
water capacity is high. Effective rooting depth is 60 erosion is high to very high. The hazard of soil blowing is
inches or more. Runoff is slow, and the hazard of water slight.
erosion is high. The hazard of soil blowing is moderate. Most areas of this unit are used as rangeland. A few
This unit is used as rangeland. areas are used as a source of gravel.
The potential plant community on this unit is mainly The potential plant community on this unit is mainly
• blue grama, needleandthread, and prairie sandreed. The blue grama, little bluestem, sideoats grama, and prairie
average annual production of air-dry vegetation ranges sandreed. The average annual production of air-dry
from 700 to 1,800 pounds. vegetation ranges from 500 to 1,200 pounds.
If the range is overgrazed, the proportion of preferred If the range is overgrazed, the proportion of preferred
forage plants decreases and the proportion of less forage plants decreases and the proportion of less
preferred forage plants increases. Therefore, livestock preferred forage plants increases. Therefore, livestock
grazing should be managed so that the desired balance grazing should be managed so that the desired balance
of preferred species is maintained in the plant of preferred species is maintained in the plant
community. community.
Range seeding is suitable if the range is in poor Management practices that are suitable for use on this
condition. The plants selected for seeding should meet unit are proper range use, deferred grazing, and rotation
the seasonal requirements of livestock or wildlife, or grazing. Livestock grazing should be managed to protect
both. Other management practices that are suitable for the soil in this unit from erosion. Slope limits access by
use on this unit are proper range use, deferred grazing, livestock and results in overgrazing of the less sloping
and rotation grazing. If the plant cover is disturbed, areas. If the plant cover is disturbed, protection from
protection from erosion is needed. Loss of the surface erosion is needed. Loss of the surface layer results in a
layer results in a severe decrease in productivity and in severe decrease in productivity and in the potential of
the potential of the soil to produce plants suitable for the soil to produce plants suitable for grazing.
grazing. This unit is poorly suited to windbreaks and
This unit is well suited to windbreaks and environmental plantings. The main limitations are the
environmental plantings. It has few limitations. high content of lime and the moderate available water
Supplemental irrigation may be needed when planting capacity. Supplemental irrigation may be needed when
and during dry periods. Summer fallow, cultivation for planting and during dry periods. Summer fallow,
weed control, and selection of adapted plants are cultivation for weed control, and selection of adapted
needed to insure establishment and survival of plants are needed to insure establishment and survival
seedlings. of seedlings.
This map unit is in capability subclass Vle, This map unit is in capability subclass Vle,
nonirrigated, and in Sandy Plains range site. nonirrigated, and in Gravel Breaks range site.
• 51—Peetz gravelly sandy loam, 5 to 20 percent 52—Peetz-Altvan complex, 0 to 20 percent slopes.
slopes. This deep, somewhat excessively drained soil is This map unit is on upland ridges, breaks, and plains.
•WELD COUNTY, COLORADO, SOUTHERN Or 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
the 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 taming fertility is important. Crops respond to applica-
grama, blue grama, pubescent wheatgrass, and crested tions of phosphorus and nitrogen.
wheatgrass 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 produc-
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
el
agriculture. establishing trees and shrubs, can be controlled by cul-
Rapid expansion of Greeley and the surrounding area tivating 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 permeability 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
Perennial grasses and alfalfa or close growing crops 5,250 feet. It formed in mixed outwash and eolian
•
36 SOIL SURVEY
deposits. Included in mapping are small areas of soils that Rapid expansion of Greeley and the surrounding area
•have sandstone and shale within a depth of 60 inches. has resulted in urbanization of much of this Otero soil.
Typically the surface layer is brown sandy loam about This soil has excellent potential for urban and recrea-
10 inches thick. The underlying material to a depth of 60 tional development. The primary limiting feature is the
inches is pale brown calcareous fine sandy loam. moderately rapid permeability in the substratum, which
Permeability is rapid. Available water capacity is causes a hazard of ground water contamination from
moderate. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or sewage lagoons. There are additional costs in site
more. Surface runoff is medium to rapid, and the erosion preparation because of slope. Lawns, shrubs, and trees
hazard is low. grow well. Capability subclass IVe irrigated, VIe nonir-
This soil is suited to limited cropping. Intensive rigated; Sandy Plains range site.
cropping is hazardous because of erosion. The cropping 54—Paoli loam, 0 to 1 percent slopes. This is a deep,
system should be limited to such close grown crops as al- well drained soil on terraces at elevations of 4,700 to 5,250
falfa, wheat, and barley. This soil also is suited to ir- feet. It formed in alluvial deposits. Included in mapping
rigated pasture. A suitable cropping system is 3 to 4 are small areas of soils that have a loamy sand surface
years of alfalfa followed by 2 years of corn and small layer.
grain and alfalfa seeded with a nurse crop. Typically the surface layer is
Closely spaced contour ditches or sprinklers can be Y grayish brown loam and
fine sandy loam about
used in irrigating close grown crops. Contour furrows org The underlying
sprinklers should be used for new crops. Applications of material to a depth of 60 inches is l inches shlight brownish gray
nitrogen and phosphorus help in maintaining good produc- fine sandy loam.
tion. Permeability is moderate. Available water capacity is
high. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more.
The potential native vegetation on this range site is
Surface runoff is very slow, and the erosion hazard is low.
dominated by sand bluestem, sand reedgrass, and blue This soil is used almost entirely for irrigated crops. It
grama. Needleandthread, switchgrass, sideoats grama, is suited to all crops commonly grown in the area, includ-
and western wheatgrass are also prominent. Potential in corn, sugar beets, beans, alfalfa, small production ranges from 2,200 pounds per acre in favors- g g a, grain, potatoes,
ble years to 1,800 ounds in unfavorable and onions. An example of a suitable cropping system is 3
P years. ee range to 4 years of alfalfa followed by corn, corn for silage,
condition deteriorates, the sand bluestem, sand reedgrass,
and switchgrass decrease and blue grama, sand dropseed, sugar beets, small grain, or beans. Such characteristics as
and sand sage increase. Annual weeds and the rapidly permeable substratum slightly restrict some
grasses invade ii,
crops.
he site as range condition becomes poorer.
Management of vegetation on this soil should be based All methods of irrigation are suitable, but furrow ir-
on taking half and leaving half of the total annual produc- rigation is the most common. Proper irrigation water
tion. Seeding is desirable if the range is in poor condition. management is essential. Barnyard manure and commer-
Sand bluestem, sand reedgrass, switchgrass, sideoats cial fertilizer are needed for top yields.
grama, blue grama, pubescent wheatgrass, and crested Windbreaks and environmental plantings are generally
suited to this soil. Soil blowing, the principal hazard in
wheatgrass are suitable for seeding. The grass selected
should meet the seasonal requirements of livestock. It can establishing trees and shrubs, can be controlled by cul-
be seeded into a clean, firm sorghum stubble, or it can be tivating only in the tree row and by leaving a strip of
drilled into a firm prepared seedbed. Seeding early in vegetation between the rows. Supplemental irrigation
spring has proven most successful. may be needed at the time of planting and during dry
Windbreaks and environmental plantings are generally periods. Trees that are best suited and have good survival
suited to this soil. Soil blowing, the principal hazard in are Rocky Mountain juniper, eastern redcedar, ponderosa
establishing trees and shrubs, can be controlled by cul- pine, Siberian elm, Russian-olive, and hackberry. The
tivating only in the tree row and by leaving a strip of shrubs best suited are skunkbush sumac, lilac, and Siberi-
vegetation between the rows. Supplemental irrigation an peashrub.
may be needed at the time of planting and during dry Wildlife is an important secondary use of this soil. The
periods. Trees that are best suited and have good survival cropland areas provide favorable habitat for ring-necked
are Rocky Mountain juniper, eastern redcedar, ponderosa pheasant and mourning dove. Many nongame species can
pine, Siberian elm, Russian-olive, and hackberry. The be attracted by establishing areas for nesting and escape
shrubs best suited are skunkbush sumac, lilac, and Siberi- cover. For pheasants, undisturbed nesting cover is essen-
an peashrub. tial and should be included in plans for habitat develop-
Wildlife is an important secondary use of this soil. ment, especially in areas of intensive agriculture.
Ring-necked pheasant, mourning dove, and many non- In areas protected from flooding, this soil has good
game species can be attracted by establishing areas for potential for urban and recreational development. The
nesting and escape cover. For pheasants, undisturbed chief limiting feature is the rapid permeability in the sub-
nesting cover is essential and should be included in plans stratum, which causes a hazard of ground water con-
or habitat development, especially in areas of intensive tamination from sewage lagoons. Road designs should be
riculture. modified to compensate for the moderate frost potential.
Weld County, Colorado, Northern Part 41
in a severe decrease in productivity and in the potential moderately dissected plains and alluvial fans. It formed
of the soil to produce plants suitable for grazing. in calcareous loamy alluvium.
This unit is well suited to windbreaks and Typically, the surface layer is pale brown fine sandy
environmental plantings. Supplemental irrigation may be loam 5 inches thick. The upper 3 inches of the subsoil is
needed when planting and during dry periods. clay loam, and the lower 6 inches is calcareous loam.
This map unit is in capability subclass Vle, The substratum to a depth of 60 inches or more is
nonirrigated, and in Loamy Plains range site. calcareous sandy loam.
Included in this unit are small areas of Kim soils and
60—Shingle clay loam, 0 to 9 percent slopes. This Mitchell soils. Included areas make up about 15 percent
shallow, well drained soil is on slightly dissected to of the total acreage.
moderately dissected plains, upland ridges, and breaks. Permeability of this Stoneham soil is moderate.
It formed in calcareous loamy or clayey residuum derived Available water capacity is moderate. Effective rooting
dominantly from shale. depth is 60 inches or more. Runoff is rapid, and the
Typically, the surface layer is yellowish brown clay hazard of water erosion is slight to moderate. The
loam 4 inches thick. The underlying material is clay loam hazard of soil blowing is moderate.
7 inches thick. Shale is at a depth of 11 inches. Depth to Most areas of this unit are used as rangeland. A few
shale ranges from 10 to 20 inches. The soil is areas are used as nonirrigated cropland. Winter wheat is
calcareous throughout. the main crop.
Included in this unit are small areas of Renohill fine The potential plant community on this unit is mainly
sandy loam, Rock outcrop of shale, areas that are blue grama, western wheatgrass, sedges, and
intermittently ponded, Thedalund loam, and Keota loam. buffalograss. The average annual production of air-dry
Included areas make up about 20 percent of the total vegetation ranges from 500 to 1,500 pounds.
acreage. If the range is overgrazed, the proportion of preferred
Permeability of this Shingle soil is moderate. Available forage plants decreases and the proportion of less
water capacity is low. Effective rooting depth is 10 to 20 preferred forage plants increases. Therefore, livestock
inches. Runoff is medium to rapid, and the hazard of grazing should be managed so that the desired balance
water erosion is slight to very high. The hazard of soil of preferred species is maintained in the plant
lowing is slight. community.
This unit is used as rangeland. Range seeding is suitable if the range is in poor
The potential plant community on this unit is mainly condition. The plants selected for seeding should meet
western wheatgrass, blue grama, alkali sacaton, and the seasonal requirements of livestock or wildlife, or
sideoats grama. The average annual production of air- both. Other management practices that are suitable for
dry vegetation ranges from 300 to 900 pounds. use on this unit are proper range use, deferred grazing,
If the range is overgrazed, the proportion of preferred and rotation grazing. If the plant cover is disturbed,
forage plants decreases and the proportion of less protection from erosion is needed. Loss of the surface
preferred forage plants increases. Therefore, livestock layer results in a severe decrease in productivity and in
grazing should be managed so that the desired balance the potential of the soil to produce plants suitable for
of preferred species is maintained in the plant grazing.
community. This unit is suited to winter wheat, barley, oats, and
Range seeding is suitable if the range is in poor sorghum. Because precipitation is not sufficient for
condition. The plants selected for seeding should meet annual cropping, a cropping system that includes small
the seasonal requirements of livestock or wildlife, or grain and summer fallow is most suitable. Precipitation
both. Areas that are heavily infested with undesirable usually is too low for crops on this unit to make efficient
plants can be improved by proper grazing management. use of fertilizer.
Other management practices that are suitable for use on Maintaining crop residue on or near the surface
this unit are proper range use, deferred grazing, and reduces runoff, reduces soil blowing, and helps to
rotation grazing. If the plant cover is disturbed, protection maintain soil tilth and organic matter content. Stubble-
from erosion is needed. Loss of the surface layer results mulch farming, striperopping, and minimum tillage help to
in a severe decrease in productivity and in the potential control erosion and conserve moisture. Terraces reduce
of the soil to produce plants suitable for grazing. runoff and the risk of erosion and help to conserve
This unit is poorly suited to windbreaks and moisture.
environmental plantings. The main limitations are shallow This unit is well suited to windbreaks and
rooting depth and low available water capacity. environmental plantings. It has few limitations.
This map unit is in capability subclass Vie, Supplemental irrigation may be needed when planting
nonirrigated, and in Shaly Plains range site. and during dry periods. Summer fallow, cultivation for
weed control, and selection of adapted plants are
• 61—StOflibam fine sandy loam, 0 to 6 percent needed to insure establishment and survival of
slopes. This deep, well drained soil is on smooth to seedlings.
S •42 Soil survey
• This map unit is in capability subclass IVe, is fine sandy loam 12 inches thick. Sandstone is at a
nonirrigated, and in Loamy Plains range site. depth of 19 inches.
tto 20 nches. The so et sandstone ranges from 10
s calcareous th oughut
62—Stoneham fine sandy loam, 6 to 9 percent Included in this unit are small areas of Shingle loam
slopes. This deep, well drained soil is on moderately and noncalcareous soils. Also included are some areas
dissected to highly dissected plains. It formed in of Rock outcrop.
calcareous loamy alluvium. Permeability of this Tassel soil is moderately rapid.
Typically, the surface layer is pale brown fine sandy Available water capacity is low. Effective rooting depth is
loam 5 inches thick. The upper 3 inches of the subsoil is 10 to 20 inches. Runoff is medium, and the hazard of
clay loam, and the lower 6 inches is calcareous loam. water erosion is moderate to very high. The hazard of
The substratum to a depth of 60 inches or more is soil blowing is moderate.
calcareous sandy loam. This unit is used as rangeland.
Included in this unit are small areas of Kim soils, The potential plant community on this unit is mainly
Mitchell soils, Otero sandy loam, and soils that have blue grama, sideoats grama, little bluestem, and
slopes of less than 6 percent. Included areas make up threadleaf sedge. The average annual production of air-
about 20 percent of the total acreage. dry vegetation ranges from 400 to 1,000 pounds.
Permeability of this Stoneham soil is moderate. If the range is overgrazed, the proportion of preferred
Available water capacity is moderate. Effective rooting forage plants decreases and the proportion of less
depth is 60 inches or more. Runoff is rapid, and the preferred forage plants increases. Therefore, livestock
hazard of water erosion is high. The hazard of soil grazing should be managed so that the desired balance
blowing is moderate. of preferred species is maintained in the plant
This unit is used as rangeland. community.
The potential plant community on this unit is mainly Management practices that are suitable for use on this
blue grama, western wheatgrass, sedges, and unit are proper range use, deferred grazing, and rotation
buffalograss. The average annual production of air-dry grazing. If the plant cover is disturbed, protection from
vegetation ranges from 400 to 1,300 pounds. erosion is needed. Loss of the surface layer results in a
If the range is overgrazed, the proportion of preferred severe decrease in productivity and in the potential of
forage plants decreases and the proportion of less the soil to produce plants suitable for grazing.
•preferred forage plants increases. Therefore, livestock This unit is poorly suited to windbreaks and
grazing should be managed so that the desired balance environmental plantings. The main limitations are shallow
of preferred species is maintained in the plant rooting depth, low available water capacity, and
community. steepness of slope.
Range seeding is suitable if the range is in poor This map unit is in capability subclass Vle,
condition. The plants selected for seeding should meet nonirrigated, and in Sandstone Breaks range site.
the seasonal requirements of livestock or wildlife, or
both. Other management practices that are suitable for 64—Terry sandy loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes. This
use on this unit are proper range use, deferred grazing, moderately deep, well drained soil is on smooth to
and rotation grazing. If the plant cover is disturbed, moderately dissected plains. It formed in calcareous
protection from erosion is needed. Loss of the surface sandy residuum derived from sandstone.
layer results in a severe decrease in productivity and in Typically, the surface layer is grayish brown sandy
the potential of the soil to produce plants suitable for loam 5 inches thick. The subsoil is sandy loam 12 inches
grazing. thick. The substratum is calcareous loamy sand 15
This unit is well suited to windbreaks and inches thick. Sandstone is at a depth of 32 inches.
environmental plantings. It has few limitations. Depth to sandstone ranges from 20 to 40 inches.
Supplemental irrigation may be needed when planting Included in this unit are small areas of Olney fine
and during dry periods. Summer fallow, cultivation for sandy loam, Vona sandy loam, Tassel loamy fine sand,
weed control, and selection of adapted plants are and soils that have a subsoil of sandy clay loam and
needed to insure establishment and survival of have sandy shale at a depth of 20 to 40 inches. Included
seedlings. areas make up about 20 percent of the total acreage.
This map unit is in capability subclass Vle, Permeability of this Terry soil is moderately rapid.
nonirrigated, and in Loamy Plains range site. Available water capacity is moderate. Effective rooting
depth is 20 to 40 inches. Runoff is slow, and the hazard
63—Tassel loamy fine sand, 5 to 20 percent of water erosion is slight. The hazard of soil blowing is
slopes. This shallow, well drained soil is on moderately moderate.
dissected to highly dissected plains. It formed in Most areas of this unit are used as rangeland. A few
calcareous loamy residuum derived dominantly from areas are used as nonirrigated cropland. Winter wheat is
• sandstone. the main crop.
Typically, the surface layer is light yellowish brown The potential plant community on this unit is mainly
loamy fine sand 7 inches thick. The underlying material blue grama, prairie sandreed, and needleandthread. The
0 •
52 SOIL SURVEY
the limited capacity of this soil to support a load. Capa- Management of vegetation on this soil should be based
5 bility class I irrigated. on taking half and leaving half of the total annual produc-
82—Wiley-Colby complex, 1 to 3 percent slopes. This tion. Seeding is desirable if the range is in poor condition.
nearly level map unit is on smooth plains in the western Sideoats grama, little bluestem, western wheatgrass, blue
part of the survey area at elevations of 4,850 to 5,000 grama, pubescent wheatgrass, and crested wheatgrass are
feet. The Wiley soil makes up about 60 percent of the suitable for seeding. The grass selected should meet the
unit, and the Colby soil about 30 percent. About 10 per- seasonal requirements of livestock. It can be seeded into
cent is Heldt silty clay and Weld loam. a clean, firm sorghum stubble or it can be drilled into a
The Wiley soil is deep and well drained. It formed in firm prepared seedbed. Seeding early in spring has
calcareous eolian deposits. Typically the surface layer is proven most successful.
pale brown silt loam about 11 inches thick. The subsoil is Windbreaks and environmental plantings are generally
pale brown silty clay loam about 23 inches thick. The sub- well suited to these soils. Cultivation to control competing
stratum to a depth of 60 inches is very pale brown silty vegetation should be continued for as many years as
clay loam. possible following planting. Trees that are best suited and
Permeability is moderately slow. Available water have good survival are Rocky Mountain juniper, eastern
capacity is high. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches redcedar, ponderosa pine, Siberian elm, Russian-olive, and
or more. Surface runoff is medium, and the erosion hackberry. The shrubs best suited are skunkbush sumac,
hazard is moderate. lilac, Siberian peashrub, and American plum.
The Colby soil also is deep and well drained and formed Openland wildlife, such as pheasant, mourning dove,
in calcareous eolian deposits. Typically the surface layer and cottontail are best suited to these soils. Wildlife
is pale brown loam about 7 inches thick. The underlying habitat development, including tree and shrub plantings
material is very pale brown silt loam to a depth of 60 and grass plantings to serve as nesting areas, should be
inches. successful without irrigation during most years. Under ir-
Permeability is moderate. Available water capacity is rigation, good wildlife habitat can be established, benefit-
high. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more. ing many kinds of openland wildlife.
Surface runoff is medium, and the erosion hazard is The Wiley soil has only fair potential for urban and
moderate. recreational development. Slow permeability, moderate
This map unit is used for irrigated and nonirrigated shrink-swell potential, and limited bearing capacity cause
•cropland and for rangeland, wildlife habitat, and urban problems in dwelling and road construction. The Colby
development. soil has good potential for urban and recreational develop-
In irrigated areas these soils are suited to all crops ment. Road design can be modified to compensate for the
commorly grown in the area, including corn, sugar beets, limited capacity of this soil to support a load. Capability
beans, alfalfa, small grain, and onions. An example of a subclass lie irrigated, IVe nonirrigated; Loamy Plains
suitable cropping system is 3 to 4 years of alfalfa fol- range site.
lowed by corn, corn for silage, sugar beets, small grain, or 83—Wiley-Colby complex, 3 to 5 percent slopes. This
beans. Land leveling, ditch lining, and installing pipelines gently sloping map unit is on plains at elevations of 4,850
may be needed for proper water applications. to 5,000 feet. The Wiley soil makes up about 60 percent of
All methods of irrigation are suitable, but furrow ir- the unit, and the Colby soil about 30 percent. About 10
rigation is the most common. Barnyard manure and com- percent is Heldt silty clay and Weld loam.
mercial fertilizer are needed for top yields. The Wiley soil is deep and well drained. It formed in
In nonirrigated areas these soils are suited to winter calcareous eolian deposits. Typically the surface layer is
wheat, barley, and sorghum. Most of the acreage is pale brown silt loam about 11 inches thick. The subsoil is
planted to winter wheat. The predicted average yield is pale brown silty clay loam about 23 inches thick. The sub-
28 bushels per acre. The soil is summer fallowed in al- stratum to a depth of 60 inches is very pale brown silty
ternate years to allow moisture accumulation. Generally clay loam.
precipitation is too low for beneficial use of fertilizer. Permeability is moderately slow. Available water
Stubble mulch farming, striperopping, and minimum til- capacity is high. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches
lage are needed to control soil blowing and water erosion. or more. Surface runoff is medium to rapid, and the ero-
Terracing also may be needed to control water erosion. sion hazard is moderate.
The potential native vegetation is dominated by blue The Colby soil also is deep and well drained and formed
grama. Several mid grasses such as western wheatgrass in calcareous eolian deposits. Typically the surface layer
and needleandthread are also present. Potential produc- is pale brown loam about 7 inches thick. The underlying
tion ranges from 1,600 pounds per acre in favorable years material is very pale brown silt loam to a depth of 60
to 1,000 pounds in unfavorable years. As range condition inches.
deteriorates, the mid grasses decrease; blue grama, buf- Permeability is moderate. Available water capacity is
falograss, snakeweed, yucca and fringed sage increase; high. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more.
and forage production drops. Undesirable weeds and an- Surface runoff is medium to rapid, and the erosion hazard
nuals invade the site as range condition becomes poorer. is moderate.
' • WELD COUNTY, COLORADO, SOUTHERN•T 53
This unit is used for irrigated and nonirrigated The Wiley soil has only fair potential for urban and
cropland and for rangeland, wildlife habitat, and urban recreational development. Slow permeability, moderate
• development. shrink-swell potential, and limited bearing capacity cause
In irrigated areas these soils are suited to the crops problems in dwelling and road construction. The Colby
commonly grown in the area. Perennial grasses and alfal- soil has good potential for urban and recreational develop-
fa or close grown crops should be grown at least 50 per- ments. Road design can be modified to compensate for
cent of the time. Contour ditches and corrugations can be the limited capacity of this soil to support a load. Capa-
used in irrigating close grown crops and pasture. Fur- bility subclass IIIe irrigated, IVe nonirrigated; Loamy
rows, contour furrows, and cross slope furrows are suita- Plains range site.
ble for row crops. Sprinkler irrigation is also desirable.
Keeping tillage to a minimum and utilizing crop residue Use and management of the soils
help to control erosion. Maintaining fertility is important.
Crops respond to applications of phosphorus and nitrogen. The soil survey is a detailed inventory and evaluation
In nonirrigated areas these soils are suited to winter of the most basic resource of the survey area—the soil. It
wheat, barley, and sorghum. Most of the acreage is is useful in adjusting land use, including urbanization, to
planted to winter wheat. The predicted average yield is the limitations and potentials of natural resources and the
28 bushels per acre. The soil is summer fallowed in al- environment. Also, it can help avoid soil-related failures
ternate years to allow moisture accumulation. Generally in uses of the land.
precipitation is too low for beneficial use of fertilizer. While a soil survey is in progress, soil scientists, con-
Stubble mulch farming, striperopping, and minimum til- servationists, engineers, and others keep extensive notes
lage are needed to control soil blowing and water erosion. about the nature of the soils and about unique aspects of
Terracing also may be needed to control water erosion. behavior of the soils. These notes include data on erosion,
The potential native vegetation is dominated by blue drought damage to specific crops, yield estimates, flood-
grama. Several mid grasses, such as western wheatgrass ing, the functioning of septic tank disposal systems, and
and needleandthread, are also present. Potential produc- other factors affecting the productivity, potential, and
tion ranges from 1,600 pounds per acre in favorable years limitations of the soils under various uses and manage-
to 1,000 pounds in unfavorable years. As range condition ment. In this way, field experience and measured data on
deteriorates, the mid grasses decrease; blue grama, buf- soil properties and performance are used as a basis for
falograss, snakeweed, yucca, and fringed sage increase; predicting soil behavior.
and forage production drops. Undesirable weeds and an-nuals invade the site as range condition becomes poorer. Information in this section is useful in planning use and
management of soils for crops, pasture, and rangeland, as
Management of vegetation on these soils should be sites for buildings, highways and other transportation
based on taking half and leaving half of the total annual systems, sanitary facilities, and parks and other recrea-
tion facilities, and for wildlife habitat. From the data
production. Seeding is desirable if the range is in poor
presented, the potential of each soil for specified land
condition. Sideoats grama, little bluestem, western wheat- uses can be determined, soil limitations to these land uses
grass, blue grama, pubescent wheatgrass, and crested
wheatgrass are suitable for seeding. The grass selected can be identified, and costly failures in houses and other
structures, caused by unfavorable soil properties, can be
should meet the seasonal requirements of livestock. It can
be avoided. A site where soil properties are favorable can be
seeded into a clean, firm sorghum stubble, or it can be
drilled into a firm prepared seedbed. Seeding early in selected, practices that will overcome the soil limita-
tions can be be planned.
spring has proven most successful. Planners and others using the soil survey can evaluate
Windbreaks and environmental plantings of trees and the impact of specific land uses on the overall productivi-
shrubs commonly grown in the area are generally well ty of the survey area or other broad planning area and on
suited to these soils. Cultivation to control competing the environment. Productivity and the environment are
vegetation should be continued for as many years as closely related to the nature of the soil. Plans should
possible following plantings. Trees that are best suited maintain or create a land-use pattern in harmony with the
and have good survival are Rocky Mountain juniper, east- natural soil.
ern redcedar, ponderosa pine, Siberian elm, Russian-olive, Contractors can find information that is useful in locat-
and hackberry. The shrubs best suited are skunkbush ing sources of sand and gravel, roadfill, and topsoil. Other
sumac, lilac, Siberian peashrub, and American plum. information indicates the presence of bedrock, wetness, or
Openland wildlife, such as pheasant, mourning dove, very firm soil horizons that cause difficulty in excavation.
and cottontail, are best suited to these soils. Wildlife Health officials, highway officials, engineers, and many
habitat development, including tree and shrub plantings other specialists also can find useful information in this
and grass plantings to serve as nesting areas, should be soil survey. The safe disposal of wastes, for example, is
successful without irrigation during most years. Under ir- closely related to properties of the soil. Pavements, side-
rigation, good wildlife habitat can be established, benefit- walks, campsites, playgrounds, lawns, and trees and
iiiing many kinds of openland wildlife. shrubs are influenced by the nature of the soil.
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