United States

Department of

Agriculture

Natural

Resources

Conservation

Service

In cooperation with

West Virginia Agricultural

and Forestry Experiment

Station

Soil Survey of

Clay County,

West Virginia

The detailed soil maps can be useful in planning the use and management of small

areas.

To find information about your area of interest, locate that area on the Index to Map

Sheets. Note the number of the map sheet and go to that sheet.

Locate your area of interest on the map sheet. Note the map unit symbols that are in

that area. Go to the Contents, which lists the map units by symbol and name and

shows the page where each map unit is described.

The Contents shows which table has data on a specific land use for each detailed

soil map unit. Also see the Contents for sections of this publication that may address

your specific needs.

i

How To Use This Soil Survey
Additional information about the Nation’s natural resources is available online

from the Natural Resources Conservation Service at http://www.nrcs.usda.gov.

ii

This soil survey is a publication of the National Cooperative Soil Survey, a joint effort

of the United States Department of Agriculture and other Federal agencies, State

agencies including the Agricultural Experiment Stations, and local agencies. The

Natural Resources Conservation Service (formerly the Soil Conservation Service) has

leadership for the Federal part of the National Cooperative Soil Survey.

Major fieldwork for this soil survey was completed in 1997. Soil names and

descriptions were approved in 1997. Unless otherwise indicated, statements in this

publication refer to conditions in the survey area in 1997. This survey was made

cooperatively by the Natural Resources Conservation Service and the West Virginia

Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station. The survey is part of the technical

assistance furnished to the Elk Soil and Water Conservation District.

Soil maps in this survey may be copied without permission. Enlargement of these

maps, however, could cause misunderstanding of the detail of mapping. If enlarged,

maps do not show the small areas of contrasting soils that could have been shown at a

larger scale.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its

programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age,

disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. (Not all

prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative

means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.)

should contact the USDA’s TARGET Center at 202-720-2600 (voice and TDD).

To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights,

Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C.

20250-9410, or call 202-720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity

provider and employer.

Cover: This mosaic of meadows on ridgetops and woodlands on side slopes near Varneytown

illustrates a typical land use pattern in Clay County. Gilpin and Lily soils are on the ridges, and

Pineville-Gilpin-Laidig association, very steep, extremely stony, is on the side slopes.
iii

Contents

How To Use This Soil Survey .......................................................................................i

Foreword .................................................................................................................... vii

General Nature of the County ...................................................................................... 1

Settlement and Population ....................................................................................... 1

Climate ..................................................................................................................... 2

Transportation and Industries................................................................................... 2

Farming .................................................................................................................... 2

Relief and Drainage ................................................................................................. 3

Geology.................................................................................................................... 3

How This Survey Was Made ........................................................................................ 4

Detailed Soil Map Units ............................................................................................. 7

AgB—Allegheny loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes ........................................................... 9

CeF—Cedarcreek very channery loam, very steep, very stony............................. 10

Ch—Chavies fine sandy loam ................................................................................ 11

FpF—Fairpoint channery loam, very steep, very stony.......................................... 12

GaF—Gilpin silt loam, 35 to 70 percent slopes, very stony ................................... 13

GuC—Gilpin-Upshur complex, 8 to 15 percent slopes .......................................... 13

GuD—Gilpin-Upshur complex, 15 to 25 percent slopes......................................... 15

GuE—Gilpin-Upshur complex, 25 to 35 percent slopes ......................................... 17

GxF—Gilpin-Upshur complex, 35 to 70 percent slopes, very stony ....................... 19

GyC—Gilpin and Lily soils, 8 to 15 percent slopes ................................................ 20

GyD—Gilpin and Lily soils, 15 to 25 percent slopes .............................................. 21

GyE—Gilpin and Lily soils, 25 to 35 percent slopes .............................................. 22

ItF—Itmann channery clay loam, very steep.......................................................... 24

LaE—Laidig channery loam, 15 to 35 percent slopes, extremely stony ................. 25

PGF—Pineville-Gilpin-Laidig association, very steep, extremely stony ................. 26

Po—Pope sandy loam ............................................................................................ 28

Px—Pope-Craigsville complex ............................................................................... 28

Ss—Sensabaugh silt loam ..................................................................................... 30

Ud—Udorthents, smoothed ................................................................................... 31

VaD—Vandalia silt loam, 15 to 25 percent slopes.................................................. 31

VaE—Vandalia silt loam, 25 to 35 percent slopes .................................................. 33

W—Water............................................................................................................... 34

Use and Management of the Soils .......................................................................... 35

Crops and Pasture ................................................................................................. 35

Yields per Acre .................................................................................................. 36

Land Capability Classification ............................................................................ 37

Prime Farmland ................................................................................................. 38

Woodland Management and Productivity ............................................................... 40

Recreation.............................................................................................................. 42

Wildlife Habitat ....................................................................................................... 43

Engineering ............................................................................................................ 45

Building Site Development ................................................................................. 46

Sanitary Facilities............................................................................................... 47
iv

Construction Materials ....................................................................................... 48

Water Management ........................................................................................... 49

Soil Properties .......................................................................................................... 53

Engineering Index Properties................................................................................. 53

Physical and Chemical Properties ......................................................................... 54

Soil Features .......................................................................................................... 56

Water Features ...................................................................................................... 56

Classification of the Soils ....................................................................................... 59

Soil Series and Their Morphology .............................................................................. 59

Allegheny Series .................................................................................................... 60

Cedarcreek Series ................................................................................................. 61

Chavies Series ....................................................................................................... 62

Craigsville Series ................................................................................................... 62

Fairpoint Series ...................................................................................................... 63

Gilpin Series........................................................................................................... 64

Itmann Series ......................................................................................................... 65

Laidig Series .......................................................................................................... 66

Lily Series .............................................................................................................. 67

Pineville Series ...................................................................................................... 68

Pope Series............................................................................................................ 69

Sensabaugh Series ................................................................................................ 70

Udorthents ............................................................................................................. 71

Upshur Series ........................................................................................................ 71

Vandalia Series ...................................................................................................... 72

Formation of the Soils ............................................................................................. 75

Factors of Soil Formation ....................................................................................... 75

Parent Material, Time, and Climate .................................................................... 75

Living Organisms ............................................................................................... 76

Topography ........................................................................................................ 76

Morphology of the Soils ......................................................................................... 76

References ................................................................................................................ 79

Glossary .................................................................................................................... 81

Tables ...................................................................................................................... 101

Table 1.—Temperature and Precipitation ............................................................. 102

Table 2.—Freeze Dates in Spring and Fall ........................................................... 103

Table 3.—Growing Season .................................................................................. 103

Table 4.—Acreage and Proportionate Extent of the Soils .................................... 104

Table 5.—Land Capability and Yields per Acre of Crops and Pasture .................. 105

Table 6.—Acreage by Capability Class and Subclass.......................................... 107

Table 7.—Prime Farmland ................................................................................... 107

Table 8.—Woodland Management and Productivity ............................................. 108

Table 9.—Recreational Development ................................................................... 112

Table 10.—Wildlife Habitat ................................................................................... 115

Table 11.—Building Site Development ................................................................. 117
v

Table 12.—Sanitary Facilities ............................................................................... 120

Table 13.—Construction Materials ....................................................................... 124

Table 14.—Water Management ............................................................................ 128

Table 15.—Engineering Index Properties ............................................................. 132

Table 16.—Physical and Chemical Properties of the Soils................................... 142

Table 17.—Soil Features ...................................................................................... 146

Table 18.—Water Features .................................................................................. 148

Table 19.—Classification of the Soils ................................................................... 150

Issued October 2005

vii

This soil survey contains information that affects land use planning in this survey

area. It contains predictions of soil behavior for selected land uses. The survey also

highlights soil limitations, improvements needed to overcome the limitations, and the

impact of selected land uses on the environment.

This soil survey is designed for many different users. Farmers, foresters, and

agronomists can use it to evaluate the potential of the soil and the management

needed for maximum food and fiber production. Planners, community officials,

engineers, developers, builders, and home buyers can use the survey to plan land

use, select sites for construction, and identify special practices needed to ensure

proper performance. Conservationists, teachers, students, and specialists in

recreation, wildlife management, waste disposal, and pollution control can use the

survey to help them understand, protect, and enhance the environment.

Various land use regulations of Federal, State, and local governments may impose

special restrictions on land use or land treatment. The information in this report is

intended to identify soil properties that are used in making various land use or land

treatment decisions. Statements made in this report are intended to help the land

users identify and reduce the effects of soil limitations that affect various land uses.

The landowner or user is responsible for identifying and complying with existing laws

and regulations.

Great differences in soil properties can occur within short distances. Some soils

are seasonally wet or subject to flooding. Some are shallow to bedrock. Some are too

unstable to be used as a foundation for buildings or roads. Clayey or wet soils are

poorly suited to use as septic tank absorption fields. A high water table makes a soil

poorly suited to basements or underground installations.

These and many other soil properties that affect land use are described in this soil

survey. The location of each soil is shown on the detailed soil maps. Each soil in the

survey area is described. Information on specific uses is given for each soil. Help in

using this publication and additional information are available at the local office of the

Natural Resources Conservation Service or the Cooperative Extension Service.

Ronald L. Hilliard

State Conservationist

Natural Resources Conservation Service

Foreword

1

CLAY COUNTY is in the west-central

part of West Virginia (fig. 1). It

encompasses about 347 square miles,

or 221,700 acres.

This soil survey updates an earlier

survey of Braxton and Clay Counties,

West Virginia (Latimer and Mooney

1920). It provides additional information

about the soils in Clay County and

more accurate soil maps.

General Nature of the

County

This section provides information

about some of the natural and cultural

factors that affect land use in the survey area. It describes settlement and population;

climate; transportation and industries; farming; relief and drainage; and geology.

Settlement and Population

The first European pioneers in Clay County were Adam O’Brien and a man named

Hammond, who explored the Clay County wilderness before 1820 (Clay County

History Book Committee 1989). The first European settler was Sinnett Triplett, who

arrived in the area sometime between 1820 and 1830. Triplett settled on a branch of

Lilly Fork, which is now called Sinnett Branch. The first permanent European settler

was David McOlgin, who settled at the present location of the town of Clay. In 1858,

Clay County was formed from parts of Braxton and Nicholas Counties, Virginia (Clay

County History Book Committee 1994). The county was named for Senator Henry

Clay.

Soil Survey of

Clay County, West Virginia

By Anthony Jenkins, Natural Resources Conservation Service

Fieldwork by Anthony Jenkins, Charles Delp, and Robert N. Pate,

Natural Resources Conservation Service

United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources

Conservation Service,

in cooperation with the West Virginia Agricultural and Forestry

Experiment Station

Figure 1.—The location of Clay County in

West Virginia.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

2

Clay is the county seat. It was first known as the town of Marshall and later, in

1863, as the town of Henry. In 1895, the town of Henry was incorporated. It was

later renamed Clay when the Post Office was designated as the Clay Post Office.

In 1990, the population of Clay County was 9,983 (U.S. Department of Commerce

1992). Clay is the only incorporated town in the survey area. It had a population of

606 in 1990. Many small, unincorporated communities are in scattered areas

throughout the county.

Climate

Table 1 gives data on temperature for the survey area as recorded at the Corton

Weather Station in the period 1964-90 and on precipitation as recorded at Clay in the

period 1961-90. Table 2 shows probable dates of the first freeze in fall and the last

freeze in spring. Table 3 provides data on length of the growing season.

In winter, the average temperature is 35.3 degrees F and the average daily

minimum temperature is 24.4 degrees. The lowest temperature on record, which

occurred at the Corton Weather Station on January 17, 1982, is -15 degrees. In

summer, the average temperature is 72.6 degrees and the average daily maximum

temperature is 84.0 degrees. The highest recorded temperature, which occurred at

the Corton Weather Station on July 16, 1988, is 103 degrees.

Growing degree days are shown in table 1. They are equivalent to “heat units.”

During the month, growing degree days accumulate by the amount that the average

temperature each day exceeds a base temperature (40 degrees F). The normal

monthly accumulation is used to schedule single or successive plantings of a crop

between the last freeze in spring and the first freeze in fall.

The total annual precipitation is 45.62 inches. Of this, 20.83 inches, or about

46 percent, usually falls in April through September. The growing season for most

crops falls within this period. The heaviest 1-day rainfall during the period of record

was 6.00 inches at Clay on September 2, 1950. Thunderstorms occur on about

44 days each year, and most occur in July.

The average seasonal snowfall is about 26.4 inches. The greatest snow depth at

any one time during the period of record was 28 inches recorded on November 26,

1950. On the average, 24 days of the year have at least 1 inch of snow on the ground.

The heaviest 1-day snowfall on record was 19.0 inches recorded on January 1, 1971.

The average relative humidity in midafternoon is about 56 percent. Humidity is

higher at night, and the average at dawn is about 82 percent. The sun shines

45 percent of the time possible in summer and 29 percent in winter. The prevailing

wind is from the southwest. Average windspeed is highest, 8.3 miles per hour, in

March.

Transportation and Industries

The transportation needs of Clay County are served by Interstate 79; State

Routes 4, 16, and 36; and numerous county routes. A railroad line runs along the

Elk River.

The major enterprises in the county are timber and sawmill operations, coal

mining, gas and oil production, and farming. The world-famous Golden Delicious

apple was developed in Clay County in 1912.

Farming

In 1987, there were 97 farms in Clay County and the average size of the farms was

165 acres. In 1992, the number of farms decreased to 91 and the average size of the
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

3

farms decreased to 163 acres. There was a total of 14,868 acres of farmland in the

county (U.S. Department of Commerce 1994).

The main agricultural enterprises are raising beef cattle, sheep, and hogs, in

conjunction with the production of hay and pasture. Some small acreages are planted

to corn or truck crops or used as orchards or vineyards. Most farms are operated on a

part-time basis.

Relief and Drainage

Clay County is in two major land resource areas—the Central Allegheny Plateau

and the Cumberland Plateau and Mountains (USDA 1981).

The Central Allegheny Plateau Major Land Resource Area is in the northern

portion of Clay County. It is characterized by “bench-break” topography, or moderately

steep ridgetops and very steep side slopes that are broken by narrow bench areas.

The flood plains are narrow but widen out along Elk River and major streams.

The Cumberland Plateau and Mountains Major Land Resource Area is in the

southern portion of Clay County. It is dominated by very steep, rugged side slopes

that are broken by strongly sloping to steep ridgetops and nearly level bottoms along

streams.

Elevation in Clay County ranges from more than 1,840 feet at the highest point,

which is an unnamed knob directly south of the town of Clay on the Nicholas County

line, to 641 feet at Queen Shoals, in an area where the Elk River enters Kanawha

County.

The Elk River, which flows from east to west through the center of the county, is

the dominant drainage system. Small drainage areas at the extreme north and south

edges of the county drain into the Little Kanawha and Gauley Rivers, respectively.

Geology

Craig Savela, geologist, Natural Resources Conservation Service, helped to prepare this section.

Most of the soils in Clay County formed in material weathered from bedrock that is

part of the Monongahela and Conemaugh Groups, the Allegheny Formation, and the

Kanawha Formation of the Pottsville Group (Cardwell, Erwin, and Woodward 1986).

These Pennsylvanian Period rocks are considered to be nearly 300 million years old

(Driscoll 1989). Because of the northwest regional dip, the oldest rocks are exposed

in the southern part of the county and the youngest rocks in the northernmost part of

the county. The bedrock consists primarily of interbedded shale, siltstone, sandstone,

and coal. Some layers of limy shale and limestone occur, mainly among the younger

strata. Many coals have been extensively surface mined or deep mined in the county.

The largest reserves have been mined from the No. 5 Block (Lower Kittanning) Coal

of the Kanawha Formation, followed by the Upper Kittanning Coal, the Upper

Freeport Coal of the Allegheny Formation, and the Pittsburgh Coal of the

Monongahela Group (Hennen, Gawthrop, and White 1917).

The rock types in Clay County are in the Appalachian Plateau physiographic

province. The dominant rock types of the Monongahela Group are massive and

flaggy, micaceous, greenish to grayish brown sandstone; red sandy shale; thin

limestones; and thin coal seams. This group is in the northern portion of Clay County

and covers about 10 percent of the survey area. The Gilpin, Upshur, and Vandalia

soils in this part of the county formed in material weathered from these red and yellow

shales and siltstones.

The dominant rock types of the Conemaugh Group are sandstones and siltstones

alternating with red sandy shales, nodular and brecciated limestones, and thin

coalbeds. The dominant rock types of the Allegheny Formation are sandstones
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

4

alternating with buff to dark gray siltstones and sandy shales, fire clay shales, thin

iron ore lenses, and minable coal seams. The dominant rock types of the Kanawha

Formation are massive sandstones; gray and black siltstones and sandy shales;

coalbeds; fire clays; and lenticular, impure limestones. These rocks are in the middle

and southern portions of Clay County and cover about 90 percent of the survey area.

The Gilpin, Laidig, Lily, and Pineville soils in this part of the county formed in material

derived from these yellowish sandstones and siltstones.

Soils along the Elk River, Buffalo Creek, and other smaller streams formed in

alluvium derived from Quaternary deposits.

How This Survey Was Made

This survey was made to provide information about the soils and miscellaneous

areas in the survey area. The information includes a description of the soils and

miscellaneous areas and their location and a discussion of their suitability, limitations,

and management for specified uses. Soil scientists observed the steepness, length,

and shape of the slopes; the general pattern of drainage; the kinds of crops and

native plants; and the kinds of bedrock. They dug many holes to study the soil profile,

which is the sequence of natural layers, or horizons, in a soil. The profile extends from

the surface down into the unconsolidated material in which the soil formed. The

unconsolidated material is devoid of roots and other living organisms and has not

been changed by other biological activity.

The soils and miscellaneous areas in the survey area are in an orderly pattern that

is related to the geology, landforms, relief, climate, and natural vegetation of the area.

Each kind of soil and miscellaneous area is associated with a particular kind of

landform or with a segment of the landform. By observing the soils and miscellaneous

areas in the survey area and relating their position to specific segments of the

landform, a soil scientist develops a concept or model of how they were formed. Thus,

during mapping, this model enables the soil scientist to predict with a considerable

degree of accuracy the kind of soil or miscellaneous area at a specific location on the

landscape.

Commonly, individual soils on the landscape merge into one another as their

characteristics gradually change. To construct an accurate soil map, however, soil

scientists must determine the boundaries between the soils. They can observe only a

limited number of soil profiles. Nevertheless, these observations, supplemented by an

understanding of the soil-vegetation-landscape relationship, are sufficient to verify

predictions of the kinds of soil in an area and to determine the boundaries.

Soil scientists recorded the characteristics of the soil profiles that they studied.

They noted color, texture, size and shape of soil aggregates, kind and amount of rock

fragments, distribution of plant roots, reaction, and other features that enable them to

identify soils. After describing the soils in the survey area and determining their

properties, the soil scientists assigned the soils to taxonomic classes (units).

Taxonomic classes are concepts. Each taxonomic class has a set of soil

characteristics with precisely defined limits. The classes are used as a basis for

comparison to classify soils systematically. Soil taxonomy, the system of taxonomic

classification used in the United States, is based mainly on the kind and character of

soil properties and the arrangement of horizons within the profile. After the soil

scientists classified and named the soils in the survey area, they compared the

individual soils with similar soils in the same taxonomic class in other areas so that

they could confirm data and assemble additional data based on experience and

research. While a soil survey is in progress, samples of some of the soils in the area

generally are collected for laboratory analyses and for engineering tests. Soil

scientists interpret the data from these analyses and tests as well as the fieldobserved characteristics and the soil properties to determine the expected behavior
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

5

of the soils under different uses. Interpretations for all of the soils are field tested

through observation of the soils in different uses and under different levels of

management. Some interpretations are modified to fit local conditions, and some new

interpretations are developed to meet local needs. Data are assembled from other

sources, such as research information, production records, and field experience of

specialists. For example, data on crop yields under defined levels of management are

assembled from farm records and from field or plot experiments on the same kinds of

soil.

Predictions about soil behavior are based not only on soil properties but also on

such variables as climate and biological activity. Soil conditions are predictable over

long periods of time, but they are not predictable from year to year. For example, soil

scientists can predict with a fairly high degree of accuracy that a given soil will have a

high water table within certain depths in most years, but they cannot predict that a

high water table will always be at a specific level in the soil on a specific date.

After soil scientists located and identified the significant natural bodies of soil in the

survey area, they drew the boundaries of these bodies on aerial photographs and

identified each as a specific map unit. Aerial photographs show trees, buildings,

fields, roads, and rivers, all of which help in locating boundaries accurately.

7

Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

Dr. John Sencindiver, professor of agronomy, West Virginia University Agricultural and Forestry

Experiment Station, helped to prepare this section.

The map units delineated on the detailed maps at the back of this survey represent

the soils or miscellaneous areas in the survey area. The map unit descriptions in this

section, along with the maps, can be used to determine the suitability and potential of

a unit for specific uses. They also can be used to plan the management needed for

those uses. More information about each map unit is given under the heading “Use

and Management of the Soils.”

A map unit delineation on a map represents an area dominated by one or more

major kinds of soil or miscellaneous areas (figs. 2 and 3). A map unit is identified and

named according to the taxonomic classification of the dominant soils or

miscellaneous areas. Within a taxonomic class there are precisely defined limits for

the properties of the soils. On the landscape, however, the soils and miscellaneous

areas are natural phenomena, and they have the characteristic variability of all

natural phenomena. Thus, the range of some observed properties may extend

beyond the limits defined for a taxonomic class. Areas of soils of a single taxonomic

class rarely, if ever, can be mapped without including areas of other taxonomic

classes. Consequently, every map unit is made up of the soils or miscellaneous areas

for which it is named and some “included” areas that belong to other taxonomic

classes.

Most included soils have properties similar to those of the dominant soil or soils in

the map unit, and thus they do not affect use and management. These are called

noncontrasting, or similar, inclusions. They may or may not be mentioned in the map

unit description. Other included soils and miscellaneous areas, however, have

properties and behavioral characteristics divergent enough to affect use or to require

different management. These are called contrasting, or dissimilar, inclusions. They

generally are in small areas and could not be mapped separately because of the

scale used. Some small areas of strongly contrasting soils or miscellaneous areas

are identified by a special symbol on the maps. The included areas of contrasting

soils or miscellaneous areas are mentioned in the map unit descriptions. A few

included areas may not have been observed, and consequently they are not

mentioned in the descriptions, especially where the pattern was so complex that it

was impractical to make enough observations to identify all the soils and

miscellaneous areas on the landscape.

The presence of included areas in a map unit in no way diminishes the usefulness

or accuracy of the data. The objective of mapping is not to delineate pure taxonomic

classes but rather to separate the landscape into landforms or landform segments

that have similar use and management requirements. The delineation of such

segments on the map provides sufficient information for the development of resource

plans, but if intensive use of small areas is planned, onsite investigation is needed to

define and locate the soils and miscellaneous areas.

Detailed Soil Map Units
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

8

An identifying symbol precedes the map unit name in the map unit descriptions.

Each description includes general facts about the unit and gives the principal hazards

and limitations to be considered in planning for specific uses.

Soils that have profiles that are almost alike make up a soil series. Except for

differences in texture of the surface layer, all the soils of a series have major horizons

that are similar in composition, thickness, and arrangement.

Soils of one series can differ in texture of the surface layer, slope, stoniness,

salinity, degree of erosion, and other characteristics that affect their use. On the basis

of such differences, a soil series is divided into soil phases. Most of the areas shown

on the detailed soil maps are phases of soil series. The name of a soil phase

commonly indicates a feature that affects use or management. For example, Laidig

channery loam, 15 to 35 percent slopes, extremely stony, is a phase of the Laidig

series.

Some map units are made up of two or more major soils or miscellaneous areas.

These map units are complexes, associations, or undifferentiated groups.

A complex consists of two or more soils or miscellaneous areas in such an intricate

pattern or in such small areas that they cannot be shown separately on the maps.

The pattern and proportion of the soils or miscellaneous areas are somewhat similar

in all areas. The Pope-Craigsville complex is an example.

An association is made up of two or more geographically associated soils or

miscellaneous areas that are shown as one unit on the maps. Because of present or

anticipated uses of the map units in the survey area, it was not considered practical

or necessary to map the soils or miscellaneous areas separately. The pattern and

relative proportion of the soils or miscellaneous areas are somewhat similar. PinevilleGilpin-Laidig association, very steep, extremely stony, is an example.

An undifferentiated group is made up of two or more soils or miscellaneous areas

that could be mapped individually but are mapped as one unit because similar

interpretations can be made for use and management. The pattern and proportion of

the soils or miscellaneous areas in a mapped area are not uniform. An area can be

made up of only one of the major soils or miscellaneous areas, or it can be made up

Figure 2.—The typical pattern of soils and parent material in the southern part of the county.

Fairpoint

Fairpoint

Gilpin and Lily

Gilpin and Lily

Gilpin 

and Lily

Gilpin 

and Lily

Pineville-GilpinLaidig

Pineville-GilpinLaidig

PinevilleGilpinLaidig

Pope

Laidig

Chavies

PopeCraigsville

Pineville-GilpinLaidig

Coal

Coal

Sandstones, Siltstones, and Shales

Sandstones, Siltstones, and Shales

Coal

Coal

Sandstones, Siltstones,

and Shales

Sandstones, Siltstones, and Shales

Sandstones, Siltstones, and Shales

Alluvium

Colluvium

Pineville-GilpinLaidig

Gilpin 

and Lily

Fairpoint
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

9

of all of them. Gilpin and Lily soils, 8 to 15 percent slopes, is an undifferentiated group

in this survey area.

Table 4 gives the acreage and proportionate extent of each map unit. Other

tables give properties of the soils and the limitations, capabilities, and potentials for

many uses. The Glossary defines many of the terms used in describing the soils or

miscellaneous areas.

AgB—Allegheny loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes

This gently sloping soil is very deep and well drained. It is on stream terraces,

mainly along the Elk River and Buffalo Creek.

Typically, the surface layer is brown loam about 9 inches thick. The subsoil extends

to a depth of 50 inches. The upper 18 inches is yellowish brown clay loam. The next

9 inches is yellowish brown loam. The lower 14 inches is yellowish brown sandy clay

loam. The substratum extends to a depth of more than 60 inches. It is strong brown

sandy loam.

Included with this soil in mapping are a few small areas of the well drained Chavies

and Laidig soils. Also included are a few small areas of soils that have slopes of less

than 3 percent and soils that have slopes of more than 8 percent. Included soils make

up about 25 percent of this map unit.

The available water capacity of this Allegheny soil is moderate or high.

Permeability is moderate in the subsoil. Runoff is medium, and natural fertility is low

or moderate. In unlimed areas reaction is very strongly acid or strongly acid. Depth to

bedrock is more than 60 inches.

Most areas of this soil are used as meadow or pasture. Some areas are used for

community development, and some are forested.

Figure 3.—The typical pattern of soils and parent material in the northern part of the county.

Gilpin-Upshur

GilpinUpshur

Vandalia

Vandalia

Vandalia

Gilpin-Upshur

Gilpin-Upshur

Gilpin-Upshur

Sensabaugh

Interbedded Siltstone and

Red Clay Shales

Sandstone

Sandstone

Alluvium

Colluvium

Sandstone

Sandstone

Interbedded Siltstone

and Red Clay Shales
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

10

This soil is suited to cultivated crops, hay, and pasture. The hazard of erosion is

moderate in unvegetated areas and is a management concern. Applying a system of

conservation tillage, contour stripcropping, using a crop rotation that includes hay,

and returning crop residue to the soil help to control erosion and to maintain soil

fertility and tilth. Proper stocking rates that maintain desirable grasses and legumes

and a rotation grazing system are major pasture management needs.

The potential productivity for trees is moderately high on this soil, but only a small

acreage is wooded. Common tree species include red oak, yellow-poplar, sugar

maple, and white ash. Plant competition is a major management concern. Intensive

management to keep undesirable plants from competing with native plants or planted

seedlings is necessary for the establishment of a desirable stand.

The hazard of erosion is the main management concern on sites for dwellings and

septic tank absorption fields. Removing a minimal amount of vegetation on

construction sites helps to prevent excessive erosion. Establishing a plant cover in

unprotected areas and providing for the proper disposal of surface water help to

control erosion and sedimentation.

The capability subclass is 2e.

CeF—Cedarcreek very channery loam, very steep, very

stony

This very deep, well drained soil is on upland side slopes, footslopes, and benches

that have been disturbed by surface mining operations. It generally is in contour

surface-mined areas having vertical rock highwalls, nearly level to moderately steep

benches, and very steep outslopes. It is mostly in southern areas of the county, near

Nicholas and Kanawha Counties. Stones that are 1 to 2 feet in diameter cover 1 to

3 percent of the surface. Slope ranges from 0 to 80 percent but is dominantly 35 to

80 percent.

Typically, the surface soil is composed of leaf litter and very dark grayish brown

and mixed brown very channery loam having a combined thickness of about

10 inches. The substratum extends to a depth of more than 65 inches. The upper

14 inches is brown very channery loam. The next 16 inches is dark yellowish brown

very channery loam. The lower 25 inches is mixed dark yellowish brown and black

extremely channery loam.

Included with this soil in mapping are a few small areas of the well drained

Pineville, Gilpin, Laidig, and Fairpoint soils. Also included are a few small areas of

soils that have been disturbed by surface mine operations and have rock fragments

dominated by sandstone or carbolithic material; areas of soils that have as much as

50 percent of the surface covered with stones or boulders; small areas of mine refuse

dumps; and some areas of wet soils in depressions. These inclusions make up about

20 percent of this map unit.

The available water capacity of this Cedarcreek soil ranges from low to high.

Permeability is moderate. Runoff is very rapid, and natural fertility is moderate or low.

This soil is extremely acid or very strongly acid. Depth to bedrock is more than

60 inches.

Most areas of this soil have become forested by such species as black locust,

black birch, red maple, yellow-poplar, and white pine. Some areas have been seeded

to sericea lespedeza, fescue, birdsfoot trefoil, and black locust. A few areas are used

for pasture. Gas wells are often in areas on the nearly level and gently sloping

benches.

This very stony soil is not suited to cultivated crops or hay and is difficult to

manage for pasture. The stoniness and the slope restrict the use of farm machinery.

The hazard of erosion is very severe in unprotected areas and is a management
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

11

concern. Proper stocking rates that maintain grasses and legumes, a rotation grazing

system, application of fertilizer, and deferment of grazing in the spring until the

surface of the soil is reasonably firm are major pasture management needs.

The potential productivity for trees is moderately high on this very stony soil. The

soil is suited to both conifers and deciduous trees, and most areas are wooded. The

most commonly planted tree is black locust. Species that are naturally invading this

map unit include yellow-poplar, birch, and sycamore. In most areas the trees are not

large enough to harvest. Applying the Best Management Practices (BMPs) as

recommended by the West Virginia Division of Forestry helps to overcome the severe

hazard of erosion during harvest. Seedling mortality is a management concern.

Planting an adequate number of healthy seedlings that are suited to the soil

conditions and planting at the proper time of year help to establish a desirable stand

of trees. Growth of tree seedlings may be slow because of the competition from

grasses and legumes and the compaction, which is a common result of reclamation

practices.

The steep slopes, surface and subsurface stones, boulders, and differential settling

are the main limitations on sites for dwellings and septic tank absorption fields. Onsite

investigation and testing are needed when determining soil limitations and the

potential for urban uses.

The capability subclass is 7s.

Ch—Chavies fine sandy loam

This nearly level, very deep, well drained soil is on high flood plains, mainly along

the Elk River and its larger tributaries. It is subject to rare flooding. Slope ranges from

0 to 3 percent.

Typically, the surface layer is brown fine sandy loam about 9 inches thick. The

subsoil extends to a depth of 57 inches. The upper 9 inches is brown loam. The next

22 inches is strong brown fine sandy loam. The lower 17 inches is strong brown loam.

The substratum extends to a depth of more than 60 inches. It is strong brown loam.

Included with this soil in mapping are a few small areas of the well drained

Allegheny, Craigsville, Laidig, Sensabaugh, and Pope soils. Also included are a few

small areas of soils that are moderately well drained and soils that have slopes of

more than 3 percent. Included soils make up about 15 percent of this map unit.

The available water capacity of this Chavies soil is moderate or high. Permeability

is moderately rapid in the subsoil. Runoff is slow, and natural fertility is moderate. In

unlimed areas reaction ranges from very strongly acid to slightly acid. Depth to

bedrock is more than 60 inches.

Most areas of this soil are used for cultivated crops or as a meadow or pasture.

Some areas are reverting to woodland, and others are used as homesites.

This soil is well suited to cultivated crops, hay, and pasture. Crops can be grown

continuously on this soil, but a cover crop is needed to help control erosion. Working

the residue from the cover crop into the soil helps to maintain soil fertility and tilth.

Proper stocking rates that maintain desirable grasses and legumes and a rotation

grazing system are major pasture management needs.

The potential productivity for trees is moderately high on this soil. Common tree

species include red oak, sycamore, white oak, and yellow-poplar. Plant competition is

a major management concern. Intensive management to keep undesirable plants

from competing with native plants or planted seedlings is necessary for the

establishment of a desirable stand.

The flooding is the main management concern on sites for dwellings and septic

tank absorption fields. The Sutton Dam helps to protect some of the areas along the

Elk River from 100-year storms. Protecting the soil from flooding or choosing a better

suited soil helps to prevent the damage caused by flooding. Establishing a plant cover
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

12

in unprotected areas and providing for the proper disposal of surface water help to

control erosion and sedimentation.

The capability subclass is 1.

FpF—Fairpoint channery loam, very steep, very stony

This very deep, well drained soil is on uplands, side slopes, and benches that

have been disturbed by surface mining operations. Stones that are 1 to 2 feet in

diameter cover 1 to 3 percent of the surface. Slope dominantly ranges from 35 to

70 percent.

Typically, the surface layer is dark grayish brown channery loam about 4 inches

thick. The substratum extends to a depth of more than 60 inches. The upper

13 inches is mixed strong brown and dark gray channery loam. The lower part is

brown very channery clay loam with dark gray, black, and strong brown lithochromic

mottles.

Included with this soil in mapping are a few small areas of the well drained

Cedarcreek, Gilpin, Pineville, and Upshur soils. Also included are a few small areas

of soils that have been disturbed by surface mine operations and have a high degree

of acidity; areas of soils that have as much as 50 percent of the surface covered with

stones or boulders; small areas of mine refuse dumps; small areas of wet soils in

depressions; areas of surface-mined soils that have vertical highwalls ranging from

10 to 100 feet in height; and areas of mine soils that have slopes of less than

15 percent. Inclusions make up about 20 percent of this map unit.

The available water capacity of this Fairpoint soil is very low or moderate.

Permeability is moderately slow. Runoff is very rapid, and natural fertility is moderate

or high. Reaction is moderately acid to neutral. Depth to bedrock is more than

60 inches.

Most areas of this soil have been seeded to sericea lespedeza, fescue, birdsfoot

trefoil, and black locust. Some smaller areas are used as woodland, and a few areas

are used as pasture. Gas wells are sometimes in areas on the nearly level and gently

sloping benches.

This very stony soil is not suited to cultivated crops or hay and is difficult to

manage for pasture. The stoniness and the slope restrict the use of farm machinery.

The hazard of erosion is very severe in unprotected areas and is a management

concern. Proper stocking rates that maintain grasses and legumes, a rotation grazing

system, application of fertilizer, and deferment of grazing in the spring until the

surface of the soil is reasonably firm are major pasture management needs.

The potential productivity for trees is moderately high on this very stony soil. The

soil is suited to both coniferous and deciduous tree species. The most commonly

planted tree is black locust. Species that are naturally invading this map unit include

yellow-poplar, red and sugar maples, birch, and sycamore. Applying the Best

Management Practices (BMPs) as recommended by the West Virginia Division of

Forestry helps to overcome the severe hazard of erosion during harvest. Seedling

mortality is a management concern. Planting an adequate number of healthy

seedlings that are suited to the soil conditions and planting at the proper time of year

help to establish a desirable stand of trees. Growth of tree seedlings may be slow

because of the competition from grasses and legumes and the compaction that is a

common result of reclamation practices.

The steep slopes, the surface and subsurface stones, and boulders are the main

limitations on sites for dwellings and septic tank absorption fields. Other potential

problems are the hazards of slippage and subsidence. Onsite investigation and

testing are needed when determining soil limitations and the potential for urban

uses.

The capability subclass is 7s.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

13

GaF—Gilpin silt loam, 35 to 70 percent slopes, very stony

This very steep, moderately deep, well drained soil is on hillsides. It is in the

northern part of the county.

Typically, the surface layer of this Gilpin soil is composed of hardwood leaf litter

and very dark grayish brown silt loam having a combined thickness of about 6 inches.

The subsoil extends to a depth of 29 inches. The upper 4 inches is dark yellowish

brown silt loam. The next 13 inches is yellowish brown silt loam. The lower 6 inches of

the subsoil is strong brown channery silty clay loam. The substratum extends to a

depth of 37 inches. It is strong brown channery silty clay loam. Fractured sandstone

bedrock is at a depth of 37 inches.

Included with this soil in mapping are small areas of the well drained Kaymine,

Pineville, Upshur, and Vandalia soils and Udorthents. Also included are a few small

areas of soils that have slopes of less than 35 percent and areas of soils that have

slopes of more than 70 percent. Included soils make up about 25 percent of this map

unit.

The available water capacity is moderate in this Gilpin soil. Permeability also is

moderate. Runoff is very rapid, and natural fertility is moderate. In unlimed areas

reaction ranges from strongly acid to extremely acid. Depth to bedrock ranges from

20 to 40 inches.

Nearly all areas are used as woodland. This soil is not suited to cultivated crops,

hay, or pasture. The slope restricts the use of farm machinery. The hazard of erosion

is very severe in unprotected areas and is a major management concern.

The potential productivity for trees is moderately high on this soil. Common tree

species include red oak, white oak, hickory, American beech, sugar maple, and

yellow-poplar. The hazard of erosion on logging roads and skid trails and the

equipment limitation are major management concerns because of the very steep

slopes. Applying the Best Management Practices (BMPs) as recommended by the

West Virginia Division of Forestry helps to overcome the severe hazard of erosion

during harvest. Seedling mortality on south aspects is a management concern.

Intensive management to keep undesirable plants from competing with native

plants or planted seedlings may be necessary for the establishment of a desirable

stand. Laying out roads and skid trails nearly on the contour, diverting surface water

away from the roads, establishing and maintaining a crown on the road, and

establishing and maintaining a protective cover of sod on roadbanks help to control

erosion.

The slope and the restricted depth to bedrock are the main limitations on sites for

dwellings and septic tank absorption fields. This soil is generally not used as a site for

dwellings or septic tank absorption fields. If the vegetation on this soil is disturbed,

establishing a plant cover in unprotected areas and providing for the proper disposal

of surface water help to control erosion and sedimentation.

The capability subclass is 7s.

GuC—Gilpin-Upshur complex, 8 to 15 percent slopes

These strongly sloping, moderately deep to very deep, well drained soils are on

ridgetops in the northern part of the county. They occur as areas so intermingled that

it was not practical to map them separately. This map unit is about 50 percent Gilpin

silt loam and 30 percent Upshur silt loam.

Typically, the surface layer of this Gilpin soil is composed of hardwood leaf litter

and very dark grayish brown silt loam having a combined thickness of about 6 inches.

The subsoil extends to a depth of 29 inches. The upper 4 inches is dark yellowish

brown silt loam. The next 13 inches is yellowish brown silt loam. The lower 6 inches of

the subsoil is strong brown channery silty clay loam. The substratum extends to a
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

14

depth of 37 inches. It is strong brown channery silty clay loam. Fractured sandstone

bedrock is at a depth of 37 inches.

Typically, the surface layer of this Upshur soil is composed of hardwood leaf litter

and very dark grayish brown silt loam having a combined thickness of about 7 inches.

The subsoil extends to a depth of 42 inches. The upper 4 inches is reddish brown silt

loam. The next 11 inches is red silty clay. The lower 20 inches is dusky red clay. The

substratum extends to a depth of 65 inches. It is dusky red channery silty clay loam.

Red shale is at a depth of 65 inches.

Included with the Gilpin and Upshur soils in mapping are small areas of the well

drained Lily soils. Also included are a few small areas of soils that have as much as

3 percent of their surface covered with stones, areas of soils that have slopes of less

than 8 percent, areas of soils that have slopes of more than 15 percent, and areas of

soils that have had more than 75 percent of the original topsoil removed by erosion.

Included soils make up about 20 percent of this map unit.

The available water capacity is moderate in the Gilpin soil and moderate or high in

the Upshur soil. Permeability is moderate in the Gilpin soil and slow in the Upshur

soil. Runoff is rapid on both soils. Natural fertility is moderate in the Gilpin soil and

moderate or high in the Upshur soil. In unlimed areas reaction ranges from strongly

acid to extremely acid in the Gilpin soil and from slightly alkaline to very strongly acid

in the Upshur soil. Depth to bedrock ranges from 20 to 40 inches in the Gilpin soil and

from 40 to 65 inches in the Upshur soil. The shrink-swell potential is high in the

subsoil of the Upshur soil. The Upshur soil is highly susceptible to soil slippage.

About half of the acreage of this map unit is used as woodland. The other half is

used as meadow or pasture (fig. 4).

These soils are suited to cultivated crops, hay, and pasture. The hazard of erosion

is severe in unprotected areas and is a management concern. If these soils are

cultivated, applying a system of conservation tillage, contour stripcropping, using a

crop rotation that includes hay, maintaining a protective cover of sod in shallow

drainageways, and returning crop residue to the soil help to control erosion and to

maintain soil fertility and tilth. Proper stocking rates that maintain desirable grasses

and legumes, a rotation grazing system, and deferment of grazing in the spring until

the soil is reasonably firm are major pasture management needs.

The potential productivity for trees is moderately high on the Gilpin soil and

moderate on the Upshur soil. Common tree species include red oak, white oak,

hickory, American beech, and yellow-poplar. The control of erosion on logging roads

and skid trails and plant competition are management concerns. Seedling mortality is

a concern on south aspects of the Gilpin soil because south-facing sites typically are

drier than other sites and less water is available for seedlings. The use of equipment

may be restricted in areas of the Upshur soil during wet periods. Intensive

management to keep undesirable plants from competing with native plants or planted

seedlings is necessary for the establishment of a desirable stand. Laying out roads

and skid trails on the contour, diverting surface water away from the roads,

establishing and maintaining a crown on the road, and establishing and maintaining a

protective cover of sod on roadbanks help to control erosion.

The slope and the depth to bedrock are the main limitations on sites for dwellings

and septic tank absorption fields in areas of the Gilpin soil. The bedrock underlying

the soil generally is rippable, but it may hinder excavation. In places it is hard

sandstone. Building on the bedrock and adding fill material when landscaping help to

overcome the depth to bedrock. Selecting areas of deeper and less sloping soils,

installing the absorption field on the contour, and installing a larger absorption field

than is typical help to overcome the limitations on sites for septic tank absorption

fields.

The slope, the slow permeability, the high shrink-swell potential in the subsoil, and

soil slippage are the main limitations on sites for dwellings and septic tank absorption
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

15

fields in areas of the Upshur soil. Selecting areas of less sloping soils, designing

dwellings so that they conform to the landscape, backfilling with porous material, and

constructing wide, reinforced footings that are adequately drained help to overcome

the limitations on sites for dwellings. Selecting areas of less clayey soils and installing

a larger absorption field than is typical help to overcome the slow permeability. If the

vegetation on these soils is disturbed, establishing a plant cover in unprotected areas

and providing for the proper disposal of surface water help to control erosion and

sedimentation.

The capability subclass is 3e in areas of the Gilpin soil and 4e in areas of the

Upshur soil.

GuD—Gilpin-Upshur complex, 15 to 25 percent slopes

These moderately steep, moderately deep to very deep, well drained soils are on

ridgetops and benches in the northern part of the county. The benches are commonly

dissected by drainageways. The soils occur as areas so intermingled that it was not

practical to map them separately. This map unit is about 45 percent Gilpin silt loam

and 30 percent Upshur silt loam.

Typically, the surface layer of this Gilpin soil is composed of hardwood leaf litter

and very dark grayish brown silt loam having a combined thickness of about 6 inches.

Figure 4.—Christmas tree production and pasture in an area of Gilpin-Upshur complex, 8 to 15

percent slopes, near Elkhurst. The surrounding pasture is in an area of Gilpin-Upshur complex,

25 to 35 percent slopes.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

16

The subsoil extends to a depth of 29 inches. The upper 4 inches is dark yellowish

brown silt loam. The next 13 inches is yellowish brown silt loam. The lower 6 inches of

the subsoil is strong brown channery silty clay loam. The substratum extends to a

depth of 37 inches. It is strong brown channery silty clay loam. Fractured sandstone

bedrock is at a depth of 37 inches.

Typically, the surface layer of this Upshur soil is composed of hardwood leaf litter

and very dark grayish brown silt loam having a combined thickness of about 7 inches.

The subsoil extends to a depth of 42 inches. The upper 4 inches is reddish brown silt

loam. The next 11 inches is red silty clay. The lower 20 inches is dusky red clay. The

substratum extends to a depth of 65 inches. It is dusky red channery silty clay loam.

Red shale is at a depth of 65 inches.

Included with these soils in mapping are small areas of the well drained Fairpoint

and Vandalia soils and Udorthents. Also included are a few small areas of soils that

have as much as 3 percent of their surface covered with stones, areas of soils that

have slopes ranging from 8 to 15 percent, areas of soils that have slopes ranging

from 25 to 35 percent, and areas of soils that have had more than 75 percent of the

original topsoil removed by erosion. Included soils make up about 25 percent of this

map unit.

The available water capacity is moderate in the Gilpin soil and moderate or high in

the Upshur soil. Permeability is moderate in the Gilpin soil and slow in the Upshur

soil. Runoff is rapid on both soils. Natural fertility is moderate in the Gilpin soil and

moderate or high in the Upshur soil. In unlimed areas reaction ranges from strongly

acid to extremely acid in the Gilpin soil and from slightly alkaline to very strongly acid

in the Upshur soil. Depth to bedrock ranges from 20 to 40 inches in the Gilpin soil and

from 40 to 62 inches in the Upshur soil. The shrink-swell potential is high in the

subsoil of the Upshur soil. The Upshur soil is highly susceptible to soil slippage.

About half of the acreage of this map unit is used as woodland. The other half is

used as meadow or pasture (fig. 5).

Figure 5.—A hayfield in an area of Gilpin-Upshur complex, 15 to 25 percent slopes.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

17

The soils in this map unit have limited suitability for cultivated crops. They are

better suited to hay and pasture. The hazard of erosion is severe in unprotected areas

and is a management concern. If these soils are cultivated, applying a system of

conservation tillage, contour stripcropping, using a crop rotation that includes hay,

maintaining a protective cover of sod in shallow drainageways, and returning crop

residue to the soil help to control erosion and to maintain soil fertility and tilth. Proper

stocking rates that maintain desirable grasses and legumes, a rotation grazing

system, and deferment of grazing in the spring until the soils are reasonably firm are

major pasture management needs.

The potential productivity for trees is moderately high on the Gilpin soil. In areas of

the Upshur soil, it is moderately high on north aspects and moderate on south

aspects. Common tree species include red oak, white oak, hickory, American beech,

and yellow-poplar. The control of erosion on logging roads and skid trails and plant

competition are major management concerns. Seedling mortality is a concern on

south aspects of the Gilpin soil because south-facing sites typically are drier than

other sites and less water is available for seedlings. The use of equipment is

restricted in areas of the Upshur soil during wet periods. Intensive management to

keep undesirable plants from competing with native plants or planted seedlings is

necessary for the establishment of a desirable stand. Laying out roads and skid trails

on the contour, diverting surface water away from the roads, establishing and

maintaining a crown on the road, and establishing and maintaining a protective cover

of sod on roadbanks help to control erosion.

The slope and the depth to bedrock are the main limitations on sites for dwellings

and septic tank absorption fields in areas of the Gilpin soil. The bedrock underlying

the soil generally is rippable, but it may hinder excavation. In places it is hard

sandstone. Building on the bedrock and adding fill material when landscaping help to

overcome the depth to bedrock. Selecting areas of deeper and less sloping soils,

installing the absorption field on the contour, and installing a larger absorption field

than is typical help to overcome the limitations on sites for septic tank absorption

fields.

The slope, the slow permeability, the high shrink-swell potential in the subsoil, and

soil slippage are the main limitations on sites for dwellings and septic tank absorption

fields in areas of the Upshur soil. Selecting areas of less sloping soils, designing

dwellings so that conform to the landscape, backfilling with porous material, and

constructing wide, reinforced footings that are adequately drained help to overcome

the limitations on sites for dwellings. Selecting areas of less clayey soils and installing

a larger absorption field than is typical help to overcome the slow permeability. If the

vegetation on these soils is disturbed, establishing a plant cover in unprotected areas

and providing for the proper disposal of surface water help to control erosion and

sedimentation.

The capability subclass is 4e in areas of the Gilpin soil and 6e in areas of the

Upshur soil.

GuE—Gilpin-Upshur complex, 25 to 35 percent slopes

These steep, moderately deep to very deep, well drained soils are on hillsides,

benches, and narrow ridgetops in the northern part of the county. The hillsides and

benches are commonly dissected by drainageways. The soils occur as areas so

intermingled that it was not practical to map them separately. The map unit is about

35 percent Gilpin silt loam and 35 percent Upshur silt loam.

Typically, the surface layer of the Gilpin soil is composed of hardwood leaf litter and

very dark grayish brown silt loam having a combined thickness of about 6 inches. The

subsoil extends to a depth of 29 inches. The upper 4 inches is dark yellowish brown

silt loam. The next 13 inches is yellowish brown silt loam. The lower 6 inches of the
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

18

subsoil is strong brown channery silty clay loam. The substratum extends to a depth

of 37 inches. It is strong brown channery silty clay loam. Fractured sandstone bedrock

is at a depth of 37 inches.

Typically, the surface layer of the Upshur soil is composed of hardwood leaf litter

and very dark grayish brown silt loam having a combined thickness of about 7 inches.

The subsoil extends to a depth of 42 inches. The upper 4 inches is reddish brown silt

loam. The next 11 inches is red silty clay. The lower 20 inches of the subsoil is dusky

red clay. The substratum extends to a depth of 65 inches. It is dusky red channery

silty clay loam. Red shale is at a depth of 65 inches.

Included with these soils in mapping are small areas of the well drained Laidig and

Vandalia soils and Udorthents. Also included are a few small areas of soils that have

as much as 3 percent of their surface covered with stones, areas of soils that have

slopes ranging from 15 to 25 percent, areas of soils that have slopes ranging from

35 to 70 percent, and areas of soils that have had more than 75 percent of the

original topsoil removed by erosion. Included soils make up about 30 percent of this

map unit.

The available water capacity is moderate in the Gilpin soil and moderate or high in

the Upshur soil. Permeability is moderate in the Gilpin soil and slow in the Upshur

soil. Runoff is very rapid on both soils. Natural fertility is moderate in the Gilpin soil

and moderate or high in the Upshur soil. In unlimed areas reaction ranges from

strongly acid to extremely acid in the Gilpin soil and from slightly alkaline to very

strongly acid in the Upshur soil. Depth to bedrock ranges from 20 to 40 inches in the

Gilpin soil and from 40 to 65 inches in the Upshur soil. The shrink-swell potential is

high in the subsoil of the Upshur soil. The Upshur soil is highly susceptible to soil

slippage.

Most areas of these soils are used as woodland. Some are used as pasture.

These soils are not suited to cultivated crops or hay, but they are suited to pasture.

The very severe hazard of erosion in unprotected areas and overgrazing in pastured

areas are major management concerns. Proper stocking rates that maintain desirable

grasses and legumes, a rotation grazing system, and deferment of grazing in the

spring until the soil is reasonably firm are major pasture management needs.

The potential productivity for trees is moderately high in areas of the Gilpin soil. In

areas of the Upshur soil, it is moderately high on north aspects and moderate on

south aspects. Common tree species include red oak, white oak, hickory, American

beech, and yellow-poplar. The control of erosion on logging roads and skid trails, the

equipment limitation, and plant competition are major management concerns.

Applying the Best Management Practices (BMPs) as recommended by the West

Virginia Division of Forestry helps to overcome the severe hazard of erosion during

harvest. Seedling mortality is a concern on south aspects of the Gilpin soil because

south-facing sites typically are drier than other sites and less water is available for

seedlings. The use of equipment is restricted during wet periods in areas of the

Upshur soil. Intensive management to keep undesirable plants from competing with

native plants or planted seedlings is necessary for the establishment of a desirable

stand. Laying out roads and skid trails on the contour, diverting surface water away

from the roads, establishing and maintaining a crown on the road, and establishing

and maintaining a protective cover of sod on roadbanks help to control erosion.

The slope and the depth to bedrock are the main limitations on sites for dwellings

and septic tank absorption fields in areas of the Gilpin soil. The slope, the slow

permeability, the high shrink-swell potential in the subsoil, and the hazard of soil

slippage are the main management concerns in areas of the Upshur soil. These soils

are not suited to most urban areas. A suitable alternative site should be selected. If

the vegetation on these soils is disturbed, establishing a plant cover in unprotected

areas and providing for the proper disposal of surface water help to control erosion

and sedimentation.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

19

The capability subclass is 6e in areas of the Gilpin soil and 7e in areas of the

Upshur soil.

GxF—Gilpin-Upshur complex, 35 to 70 percent slopes,

very stony

These very steep, moderately deep to very deep, well drained soils are on

hillsides in the northern part of the county. The hillsides are commonly dissected

by drainageways. These soils occur as areas so intermingled that it was not

practical to map them separately. This map unit is about 50 percent Gilpin silt loam

and 30 percent Upshur silt loam.

Typically, the surface layer of the Gilpin soil is composed of hardwood leaf litter and

very dark grayish brown silt loam having a combined thickness of about 6 inches. The

subsoil extends to a depth of 29 inches. The upper 4 inches is dark yellowish brown

silt loam. The next 13 inches is yellowish brown silt loam. The lower 6 inches of the

subsoil is strong brown channery silty clay loam. The substratum extends to a depth

of 37 inches. It is strong brown channery silty clay loam. Fractured sandstone bedrock

is at a depth of 37 inches.

Typically, the surface layer of the Upshur soil is composed of hardwood leaf litter

and very dark grayish brown silt loam having a combined thickness of about 7 inches.

The subsoil extends to a depth of 42 inches. The upper 4 inches is reddish brown silt

loam. The next 11 inches is red silty clay. The lower 20 inches is dusky red clay. The

substratum extends to a depth of 65 inches. It is dusky red channery silty clay loam.

Red shale is at a depth of 65 inches.

Included with these soils in mapping are small areas of the well drained Fairpoint,

Pineville, and Vandalia soils. Also included are a few small areas of soils that have as

much as 3 percent of their surface covered with stones, areas of soils that have

slopes ranging from 25 to 35 percent, and areas of soils that have had more than

75 percent of the original topsoil removed by erosion. Included soils make up about

20 percent of this map unit.

The available water capacity is moderate in the Gilpin soil and moderate or high in

the Upshur soil. Permeability is moderate in the Gilpin soil and slow in the Upshur

soil. Runoff is very rapid on both soils. Natural fertility is moderate in the Gilpin soil

and moderate or high in the Upshur soil. In unlimed areas reaction ranges from

strongly acid to extremely acid in the Gilpin soil and from slightly alkaline to very

strongly acid in the Upshur soil. Depth to bedrock ranges from 20 to 40 inches in the

Gilpin soil and from 40 to 65 inches in the Upshur soil. The shrink-swell potential is

high in the subsoil of the Upshur soil. The Upshur soil is highly susceptible to soil

slippage.

Nearly all areas of these soils are used as woodland. A few are used as

pasture.

These soils are not suited to cultivated crops, hay, or pasture. The slope restricts

the use of farm machinery. A very severe hazard of erosion in unprotected areas is a

major management concern.

The potential productivity for trees is moderately high in areas of the Gilpin soil. In

areas of the Upshur soil, it is moderately high on north aspects and moderate on

south aspects. Common tree species include red oak, white oak, hickory, American

beech, red and sugar maples, and yellow-poplar. The control of erosion on logging

roads and skid trails, the equipment limitation, and plant competition are major

management concerns. Applying the Best Management Practices (BMPs) as

recommended by the West Virginia Division of Forestry helps to overcome the severe

hazard of erosion during harvest. Seedling mortality is a concern on south aspects of

the Gilpin soil because south-facing sites typically are drier than other sites and less

water is available for seedlings. The use of equipment is restricted in areas of the
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

20

Upshur soil during wet periods because the soil is highly susceptible to slippage.

Intensive management to keep undesirable plants from competing with native plants

or planted seedlings is necessary for the establishment of a desirable stand. Laying

out roads and skid trails on the contour, diverting surface water away from the roads,

establishing and maintaining a crown on the road, and establishing and maintaining a

protective cover of sod on roadbanks help to control erosion.

The slope and the depth to bedrock are the main limitations on sites for dwellings

and septic tank absorption fields in areas of the Gilpin soil. The slope, the slow

permeability, the high shrink-swell potential in the subsoil, and soil slippage are the

main limitations in areas of the Upshur soil. These soils are generally not used as a

site for dwellings or septic tank absorption fields. If the vegetation on these soils is

disturbed, establishing a plant cover in unprotected areas and providing for the proper

disposal of surface water help to control erosion and sedimentation.

The capability subclass is 7s.

GyC—Gilpin and Lily soils, 8 to 15 percent slopes

These strongly sloping, moderately deep, well drained soils are on ridgetops,

mainly in the southern and eastern parts of the county. Most areas of this map unit

are predominantly Gilpin soil, some are predominantly Lily soil, and many contain

both soils. The map unit is about 55 percent Gilpin soil and 25 percent Lily soil. These

soils were mapped together because they are similar in use and management and

have similar interpretive properties.

Typically, the surface layer of the Gilpin soil is composed of hardwood leaf litter and

very dark grayish brown silt loam having a combined thickness of about 6 inches. The

subsoil extends to a depth of 29 inches. The upper 4 inches is dark yellowish brown

silt loam. The next 13 inches is yellowish brown silt loam. The lower 6 inches of the

subsoil is strong brown channery silty clay loam. The substratum extends to a depth

of 37 inches. It is strong brown channery silty clay loam. Fractured sandstone bedrock

is at a depth of 37 inches.

Typically, the surface layer of the Lily soil is composed of hardwood leaf litter and

very dark gray to brown loam having a combined thickness of about 4 inches. The

subsoil extends to a depth of 32 inches. The upper 8 inches is yellowish brown loam,

the next 8 inches is strong brown and yellowish brown loam, the next 8 inches is

strong brown clay loam, and the lower 4 inches of the subsoil is strong brown

channery sandy loam. Sandstone bedrock is at a depth of 32 inches.

Included with these soils in mapping are small areas of the well drained

Cedarcreek, Fairpoint, Laidig, Pineville, and Upshur soils and Udorthents. Also

included are a few small areas of soils that have as much as 3 percent of their

surface covered with stones, areas of soils that have slopes of less than 8 percent,

areas of soils that have slopes of more than 15 percent, and areas of soils that have

had more than 75 percent of the original topsoil removed by erosion. Included soils

make up about 20 percent of this map unit.

The available water capacity of the Gilpin and Lily soils is moderate. Permeability is

moderate in the Gilpin soil and moderately rapid in the Lily soil. Runoff is rapid on

both soils. Natural fertility is moderate in the Gilpin soil and moderately low in the Lily

soil. In unlimed areas of both soils, reaction ranges from strongly acid to extremely

acid. Depth to bedrock ranges from 20 to 40 inches.

About half of the acreage of this map unit is used as woodland. The other half is

used as meadow or pasture

These soils are suited to cultivated crops, hay, and pasture. The hazard of erosion

is severe in unprotected areas and is a management concern. If these soils are

cultivated, applying a system of conservation tillage, contour stripcropping, using a

crop rotation that includes hay, maintaining a protective cover of sod in shallow
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

21

drainageways, and returning crop residue to the soil help to control erosion and to

maintain soil fertility and tilth. Proper stocking rates that maintain desirable grasses

and legumes, a rotation grazing system, and deferment of grazing in the spring until

the soil is reasonably firm are major pasture management needs.

The potential productivity for trees is moderately high on these soils. Common tree

species include red oak, scarlet oak, black oak, chestnut oak, red maple, white oak,

hickory, American beech, and yellow-poplar. Plant competition is a major

management concern. Seedling mortality is a concern on south aspects of the Gilpin

soil because south-facing sites typically are drier than other sites and less water is

available for seedlings. Intensive management to keep undesirable plants from

competing with native plants or planted seedlings is necessary for the establishment

of a desirable stand. Laying out roads and skid trails on the contour, diverting surface

water away from the roads, establishing and maintaining a crown on the road, and

establishing and maintaining vegetation on roadbanks help to control erosion and

maintain trafficability.

The slope and the depth to bedrock are the main limitations on sites for dwellings

and septic tank absorption fields. The bedrock underlying the Gilpin soil generally is

rippable, but it may hinder excavation. The bedrock underlying the Lily soil typically is

hard sandstone. Building on the bedrock and adding fill material when landscaping

help to overcome the depth to bedrock. Selecting areas of deeper and less sloping

soils, installing the absorption fields on the contour, and installing a larger absorption

field than is typical help to overcome the limitations on sites for septic tank absorption

fields in areas of the Gilpin soil. If the vegetation on these soils is disturbed,

establishing a plant cover in unprotected areas and providing for the proper disposal

of surface water help to control erosion and sedimentation.

The capability subclass is 3e.

GyD—Gilpin and Lily soils, 15 to 25 percent slopes

These moderately steep, moderately deep, well drained soils are on ridgetops,

mostly in the southern portion of the county. Most areas are predominantly Gilpin soil,

some are predominantly Lily soil, and many contain both soils. This map unit is about

55 percent Gilpin soil and 25 percent Lily soil. These soils were mapped together

because they are similar in use and management and have similar interpretive

properties.

Typically, the surface layer of the Gilpin soil is composed of hardwood leaf litter and

very dark grayish brown silt loam having a combined thickness of about 6 inches. The

subsoil extends to a depth of 29 inches. The upper 4 inches is dark yellowish brown

silt loam. The next 13 inches is yellowish brown silt loam. The lower 6 inches of the

subsoil is strong brown channery silty clay loam. The substratum extends to a depth

of 37 inches. It is strong brown channery silty clay loam. Fractured sandstone bedrock

is at a depth of 37 inches.

Typically, the surface layer of the Lily soil is composed of hardwood leaf litter and

very dark gray to brown loam having a combined thickness of about 4 inches. The

subsoil extends to a depth of 32 inches. The upper 8 inches is yellowish brown loam,

the next 8 inches is strong brown and yellowish brown loam, the next 8 inches is

strong brown clay loam, and the lower 4 inches of the subsoil is strong brown

channery sandy loam. Sandstone bedrock is at a depth of 32 inches.

Included with these soils in mapping are small areas of the well drained

Cedarcreek, Fairpoint, Laidig, Pineville, and Upshur soils and Udorthents. Also

included are a few small areas of soils that have as much as 3 percent of their

surface covered with stones, areas of soils that have slopes of less than 15 percent,

areas of soils that have slopes of more than 25 percent, and areas of soils that have
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

22

had more than 75 percent of the original topsoil removed by erosion. Included soils

make up about 20 percent of this map unit.

The available water capacity of these Gilpin and Lily soils is moderate. Permeability

is moderate in the Gilpin soil and moderately rapid in the Lily soil. Runoff is rapid on

both soils. Natural fertility is moderate in the Gilpin soil and moderately low in the Lily

soil. In unlimed areas of both soils, reaction ranges from strongly acid to extremely

acid. Depth to bedrock ranges from 20 to 40 inches.

Most areas of these soils are used as woodland. Some have been cleared for

development, and others are used as meadow or pasture.

These soils have limited suitability for cultivated crops. They are better suited to

hay and pasture. The hazard of erosion is severe in unprotected areas and is a

management concern. If these soils are cultivated, applying a system of conservation

tillage, contour stripcropping, using a crop rotation that includes hay, maintaining a

protective cover of sod in shallow drainageways, and returning crop residue to the soil

help to control erosion and to maintain soil fertility and tilth. Proper stocking rates that

maintain desirable grasses and legumes, a rotation grazing system, and deferment of

grazing in the spring until the soils are reasonably firm are major pasture

management needs.

The potential productivity for trees is moderately high on these soils. Common tree

species include red oak, scarlet oak, black oak, chestnut oak, red maple, white oak,

hickory, American beech, and yellow-poplar. Plant competition and the hazard of

erosion are major management concerns. Seedling mortality is a concern on south

aspects because south-facing sites typically are drier than other sites and less water

is available for seedlings. Intensive management to keep undesirable plants from

competing with native plants or planted seedlings is necessary for the establishment

of a desirable stand. Laying out roads and skid trails on the contour, diverting

surface water away from the roads, establishing and maintaining a crown on the

road, and establishing and maintaining vegetation on roadbanks help to control

erosion.

The slope and the depth to bedrock are the main limitations on sites for dwellings

and septic tank absorption fields in areas of these soils. The bedrock underlying the

Gilpin soil generally is rippable, but it may hinder excavation. The bedrock underlying

the Lily soil is typically hard sandstone, and it can be very difficult to excavate.

Building on the bedrock and adding fill material when landscaping help to overcome

the depth to bedrock. Selecting areas of deeper and less sloping soils, installing the

absorption fields on the contour, and installing a larger absorption field than is typical

may help to overcome the limitations on sites for septic tank absorption fields. If the

vegetation on these soils is disturbed, establishing a plant cover in unprotected areas

and providing for the proper disposal of surface water help to control erosion and

sedimentation.

The capability subclass is 4e.

GyE—Gilpin and Lily soils, 25 to 35 percent slopes

These steep, moderately deep, well drained soils are on ridgetops and low hills,

mostly in the southern part of the county. Most areas of this map unit are

predominantly Gilpin soil, some are predominantly Lily soil, and many contain both

soils. This map unit is about 55 percent Gilpin soil and 25 percent Lily soil. These soils

are mapped together because they are similar in use and management and have

similar interpretive properties.

Typically, the surface layer of the Gilpin soil is composed of hardwood leaf litter and

very dark grayish brown silt loam having a combined thickness of about 6 inches. The

subsoil extends to a depth of 29 inches. The upper 4 inches is dark yellowish brown
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

23

silt loam. The next 13 inches is yellowish brown silt loam. The lower 6 inches of the

subsoil is strong brown channery silty clay loam. The substratum extends to a depth

of 37 inches. It is strong brown channery silty clay loam. Fractured sandstone bedrock

is at a depth of 37 inches.

Typically, the surface layer of the Lily soil is composed of hardwood leaf litter and

very dark gray to brown loam having a combined thickness of about 4 inches. The

subsoil extends to a depth of 32 inches. The upper 8 inches is yellowish brown loam,

the next 8 inches is strong brown and yellowish brown loam, the next 8 inches is

strong brown clay loam, and the lower 4 inches is strong brown channery sandy

loam. Sandstone bedrock is at a depth of 32 inches.

Included with these soils in mapping are small areas of the well drained

Cedarcreek, Fairpoint, Laidig, Pineville, and Upshur soils and Udorthents. Also

included are a few small areas of soils that have as much as 3 percent of their

surface covered with stones, areas of soils that have slopes of less than 25 percent,

areas of soils that have slopes of more than 35 percent, and areas of soils that have

had more than 75 percent of the original topsoil removed by erosion. Included soils

make up about 20 percent of this map unit.

The available water capacity of the Gilpin and Lily soils is moderate. Permeability is

moderate in the Gilpin soil and moderately rapid in the Lily soil. Runoff is very rapid

on both soils. Natural fertility is moderate in the Gilpin soil and moderately low in the

Lily soil. In unlimed areas of both soils, reaction ranges from strongly acid to

extremely acid. Depth to bedrock ranges from 20 to 40 inches.

Most areas of these soils are used as woodland. Some have been cleared for

development or are used as meadow or pasture.

These soils are not suited to cultivated crops or hay; however, they are suited to

pasture. The very severe hazard of erosion in unprotected areas and overgrazing

in pastured areas are major management concerns. Proper stocking rates that

maintain desirable grasses and legumes, a rotation grazing system, and deferment

of grazing in the spring until the soil is reasonably firm are major pasture

management needs.

The potential productivity for trees is moderately high on these soils. Common tree

species include red oak, scarlet oak, black oak, chestnut oak, white oak, red maple,

hickory, American beech, and yellow-poplar. The control of erosion on logging roads

and skid trails, the equipment limitation, and plant competition are major management

concerns. Seedling mortality is a concern on south aspects because south-facing

sites typically are drier than other sites and less water is available for seedlings.

Intensive management to keep undesirable plants from competing with native plants

or planted seedlings is necessary for the establishment of a desirable stand. Laying

out roads and skid trails on the contour, diverting surface water away from the roads,

establishing and maintaining a crown on the road, and establishing and maintaining

vegetation on roadbanks help to control erosion.

The slope and the depth to bedrock are severe limitations on sites for dwellings

and septic tank absorption fields in areas of these soils. A suitable alternative site

should be considered. The bedrock underlying the Gilpin soil generally is rippable, but

it may hinder excavation. The bedrock underlying the Lily soil is typically hard

sandstone, and it is very difficult to excavate. Building on the bedrock and adding fill

material when landscaping help to overcome the depth to bedrock. Selecting areas of

deeper and less sloping soils, installing the absorption fields on the contour, and

installing a larger absorption field than is typical help to overcome the limitations on

sites for septic tank absorption fields. If the vegetation on these soils is disturbed,

establishing a plant cover in unprotected areas and providing for the proper disposal

of surface water help to control erosion and sedimentation.

The capability subclass is 6e.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

24

ItF—Itmann channery clay loam, very steep

This somewhat excessively drained soil formed mostly in material derived from

coal and high-carbon shale. It is generally in valley fills and on the steep and very

steep side slopes that are close to both active and previously active mining

operations in the southeastern part of Clay County. In most areas the mine spoil

has been covered with 12 to 20 inches of natural soil material removed from the

surrounding area during reclamation activities (fig. 6). Slope ranges from 0 to

80 percent but dominantly ranges from 35 to 70 percent.

Typically, the surface layer is yellowish brown channery clay loam about 12 inches

thick. The substratum extends to a depth of more than 65 inches. The upper

14 inches is black extremely channery sandy loam. The lower 39 inches is black very

channery sandy loam with pockets of loamy sand. Carbolith fragments constitute

more than 50 percent of the total content of rock fragments.

Included with this soil in mapping are a few small areas of the well drained

Cedarcreek, Fairpoint, Gilpin, and Laidig soils. Also included are a few small areas

where the mine spoil has not been covered with natural soil material, areas where the

mine spoil is covered with more than 20 inches of natural soil material, and areas

where as much as 15 percent of the surface is covered with stones and boulders.

Included soils make up about 20 percent of this map unit.

Figure 6.—A reclaimed area of Itmann channery clay loam, very steep, near Widen, West Virginia.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

25

The available water capacity of this Itmann soil is low or moderate. Permeability is

moderately rapid in the substratum. Runoff is very rapid. Natural fertility is low. In

unlimed areas reaction ranges from extremely acid to strongly acid. Depth to bedrock

is more than 60 inches.

Most areas have been seeded to sericea lespedeza, fescue, birdsfoot trefoil, or

black locust.

This soil is not suited to cultivated crops or hay and is difficult to manage for

pasture. The slope restricts the use of farm machinery. If this soil is pastured, the very

severe hazard of erosion in unprotected areas and overgrazing in pastured areas are

major management concerns. Proper stocking rates that maintain desirable grasses

and legumes and a rotation grazing system are major pasture management needs.

The potential productivity for trees is low on this soil. Sycamore, birch, red maple,

and yellow-poplar are naturally invading some areas of the soil. Seedling mortality is

a management concern. Planting healthy seedlings with well developed root systems

and timing planting to take full advantage of spring rains reduce the seedling mortality

rate. On south and west aspects, mulching may be required to aid in seedling

survival. Growth of native trees and planted seedlings is slow because the fertility

level and water-holding capacity are low.

The steep slopes and differential settling are the main limitations on sites for

dwellings and septic tank absorption fields. Onsite investigation and testing are

needed when determining soil limitations and the potential for urban uses. If the

vegetative cover is removed, establishing a plant cover in unprotected areas and

providing for proper surface water disposal help to control erosion and sedimentation.

The capability subclass is 7s.

LaE—Laidig channery loam, 15 to 35 percent slopes,

extremely stony

This moderately steep and steep, very deep, well drained soil is on footslopes,

along drainageways, and on benches in the lower half of the county. Stones that are

10 to 24 inches in diameter cover 3 to 15 percent of the surface of this soil.

Typically, the surface layer of this Laidig soil is composed of hardwood leaf litter

and dark brown channery loam having a combined thickness of about 7 inches. The

subsoil extends to a depth of more than 65 inches. The upper 4 inches is dark

yellowish brown channery loam. The next 31 inches is yellowish brown channery

loam. The lower 23 inches of the subsoil is a fragipan of very firm and brittle,

yellowish brown channery loam with light gray and strong brown redoximorphic

features.

Included with this soil in mapping are a few small areas of the well drained Gilpin,

Lily, and Pineville soils and Udorthents. Also included are some small areas of

Craigsville and Pope soils that are so small in size that they could not be delineated

at the scale selected for mapping; a few small areas of soils that have a seasonal

high water table within a depth of 3 feet; areas where less than 3 percent or more

than 15 percent of the surface is covered with stones; areas of soils that have slopes

of less than 15 percent; and areas of soils that have slopes of more than 35 percent.

Included soils make up about 20 percent of this map unit.

The available water capacity of this Laidig soil is moderate. Permeability is slow or

moderately slow in the fragipan in the subsoil. Runoff is rapid or very rapid. Natural

fertility is low. A seasonal high water table is at a depth of about 3 to 4 feet. In unlimed

areas reaction is extremely acid or very strongly acid. Depth to bedrock is more than

60 inches.

Most areas of this soil are used as woodland. A few have been cleared and are

used for pasture or community development.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

26

This extremely stony soil is not suited to cultivated crops or hay and is difficult to

manage for pasture. The slope and the stones restrict the use of farm machinery. The

very severe hazard of erosion in unprotected areas and overgrazing in pastured

areas are major management concerns. Proper stocking rates that maintain desirable

grasses and legumes and a rotation grazing system are major pasture management

needs.

The potential productivity for trees is moderately high on this soil. The slope limits

the operation of equipment. The slope, the stones, and low soil strength may limit the

construction of haul roads and major skid trails. The slope severely limits the location

of log landings. Locating log landings in areas of the included, less sloping soils helps

to overcome the slope. Haul roads, major skid trails, and log landings may be subject

to severe rutting during wet periods unless they are strengthened by adding gravel to

the surface. The hazard of erosion is moderate. Constructing haul roads and major

skid trails near the contour, installing water bars and culverts, establishing and

maintaining a crown on the road, and establishing and maintaining vegetation on

roadbanks help to control erosion and runoff.

The slope is the main limitation on sites for dwellings. The slope, the slow

permeability, and the wetness are the main limitations on sites for septic tank

absorption fields. A suitable alternative site should be considered. If the vegetative

cover is removed, establishing a plant cover in unprotected areas and providing for

the proper disposal of surface water help to control erosion and sedimentation.

The capability subclass is 7s.

PGF—Pineville-Gilpin-Laidig association, very steep,

extremely stony

These moderately deep and very deep, well drained soils are on mountain side

slopes, mostly in the southern half of the county. Slopes are long, and the landscape

is deeply dissected by numerous drainageways. This map unit is about 35 percent

Pineville and similar soils, 25 percent Gilpin and similar soils, and 20 percent Laidig

and similar soils. Typically, Pineville soils are on side slopes and in coves; Gilpin soils

are on convex, upper and middle side slopes; and Laidig soils are on the lower side

slopes, on very steep footslopes, and in coves. Stones that are 10 to 24 inches in

diameter cover 3 to 15 percent of the surface of this map unit. Slopes dominantly

range from 35 to 70 percent.

Typically, the surface layer of this Pineville soil is composed of hardwood leaf litter

and very dark grayish brown channery loam having a combined thickness of about

4 inches. The subsoil extends to a depth of 54 inches. It is dark yellowish brown and

yellowish brown channery loam and yellowish brown very channery loam. The

substratum extends to a depth of more than 60 inches. It is yellowish brown very

channery loam.

Typically, the surface layer of this Gilpin soil is composed of hardwood leaf litter

and very dark grayish brown silt loam having a combined thickness of about 6 inches.

The subsoil extends to a depth of 29 inches. The upper 4 inches is dark yellowish

brown silt loam. The next 13 inches is yellowish brown silt loam. The lower 6 inches of

the subsoil is strong brown channery silty clay loam. The substratum extends to a

depth of 37 inches. It is strong brown channery silty clay loam. Fractured sandstone

bedrock is at a depth of 37 inches.

Typically, the surface layer of this Laidig soil is composed of hardwood leaf litter

and dark brown channery loam having a combined thickness of about 7 inches. The

subsoil extends to a depth of more than 65 inches. The upper 4 inches is dark

yellowish brown channery loam. The next 31 inches is yellowish brown channery
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

27

loam. The lower 23 inches of the subsoil is a fragipan of very firm and brittle yellowish

brown channery loam with light gray and strong brown redoximorphic features.

Included with these soils in mapping are small areas of the well drained Lily and

Upshur soils; small areas of the well drained Cedarcreek and Itmann soils that have

been disturbed by mining; areas of Fairpoint soils where surface mining occurred

after soil mapping; and a few small areas of the well drained Pope, Craigsville, and

Chavies soils on flood plains. Also included are some areas of soils that have more

rock fragments throughout the profile than the named components of this map unit;

areas of soils that are only 40 to 60 inches deep over bedrock; areas of rock outcrops

on ridges and side slopes; areas of soils that have slopes of less than 35 percent and

are on ridgetops; areas of soils that have slopes of more than 55 percent; areas of

soils that have a thick, dark surface layer; and areas where stones and boulders

cover more than 15 percent of the surface. Included soils make up about 20 percent

of this map unit.

The available water capacity is moderate or high in the Pineville soil and moderate

in the Gilpin and Laidig soils. Permeability is moderate in the Pineville and Gilpin soils

and moderately slow or slow in the fragipan of the Laidig soils. Runoff is very rapid on

all three soils. Natural fertility is moderate in the Pineville and Gilpin soils and

moderately low in the Laidig soil. In unlimed areas reaction is very strongly acid or

strongly acid in the Pineville soil and ranges from extremely acid to strongly acid in

the Gilpin and Laidig soils. Depth to bedrock is more than 60 inches in areas of the

Laidig and Pineville soils and ranges from 20 to 40 inches in areas of the Gilpin soil.

Most areas of these soils are used as woodland. A few have been cleared and are

used as pasture.

These extremely stony soils are not suited to cultivated crops or hay and are

difficult to manage for pasture. The slope and stones restrict the use of farm

machinery. The very severe hazard of erosion in unprotected areas and overgrazing

in pastured areas are major management concerns. Proper stocking rates that

maintain desirable grasses and legumes and a rotation grazing system are major

pasture management needs.

The potential productivity is moderately high for trees on these soils. Common

trees include red oak, white oak, hickory, American beech, sugar maple, and yellowpoplar. Chestnut oak, black oak, and scarlet oak are common on south-facing

aspects. The control of erosion on logging roads and skid trails, the equipment

limitation, and plant competition are major management concerns. Applying the Best

Management Practices (BMPs) as recommended by the West Virginia Division of

Forestry helps to overcome the severe hazard of erosion during harvest. On south

aspects, seedling mortality is a concern in areas of the Gilpin and Pineville soils since

they are drier sites and have less water available to seedlings. Laying out roads and

skid trails on the contour, diverting surface water away from the roads, establishing

and maintaining a crown on the road, and establishing and maintaining a protective

cover of sod on roadbanks help to control erosion. On slopes of more than

55 percent, conventional skidder logging techniques are not recommended. The use

of specialized equipment or management techniques, such as cable yarding, should

be considered before harvesting timber in these areas. Intensive management to

keep undesirable plants from competing with native plants or planted seedlings is

necessary for the establishment of a desirable stand. Site preparation following

harvest and the establishment of a new forest without delay help to reduce plant

competition. Planting healthy seedlings with well developed root systems and timing

planting to take full advantage of spring rains reduce the seedling mortality rate.

The slope is the main limitation on sites for dwellings and septic tank absorption

fields in areas of these soils. Depth to bedrock is an additional limitation in areas of

the Gilpin soil. The bedrock underlying the Gilpin soil generally is rippable, but it may

hinder excavation. The slow permeability and the wetness are additional limitations in
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

28

areas of the Laidig soil. These three soils are generally not suited to most urban uses.

A suitable alternative site should be considered. If the vegetative cover is removed,

establishing a plant cover in unprotected areas and providing for proper disposal of

surface water help to control erosion and sedimentation.

The capability subclass is 7s.

Po—Pope sandy loam

This nearly level, very deep, well drained soil is on flood plains, mainly along the

Elk River, Lilly Fork, and Buffalo, Leatherwood, Middle, Sycamore, Porter, and Laurel

Creeks in Clay County. Slope ranges from 0 to 3 percent.

Typically, the surface layer is composed of hardwood leaf litter and brown sandy

loam having a combined thickness of about 6 inches. The subsoil extends to a depth

of 36 inches. The upper 9 inches is dark yellowish brown sandy loam. The lower

21 inches is yellowish brown sandy loam. The substratum extends to a depth of more

than 60 inches. It is yellowish brown sandy loam.

Included with this soil in mapping are a few small areas of the well drained

Allegheny, Chavies, Craigsville, Laidig, and Sensabaugh soils. Also included are a

few small areas of soils that have a seasonal high water table within a depth of 3 feet.

Included soils make up about 15 percent of this map unit.

The available water capacity of this Pope soil is moderate or high. Permeability is

moderate or moderately rapid. Runoff is slow. Natural fertility is moderate. In unlimed

areas reaction ranges from strongly acid to extremely acid. Depth to bedrock is more

than 60 inches.

Most areas of this soil are used as meadow, pasture, or woodland or for cultivated

crops (fig. 7).

This soil is suited to cultivated crops, hay, and pasture. Crops can be grown

continuously on the soil, but a cover crop is needed to help control erosion. Working

the residue from the cover crop into the soil helps to maintain soil fertility and tilth. In

places crops are subject to damage from flooding. Proper stocking rates that maintain

desirable grasses and legumes and a rotation grazing system are major pasture

management needs.

The potential productivity for trees is moderately high on this soil. Common tree

species include red oak, sycamore, and yellow-poplar. Plant competition is a

management concern. Intensive management to keep undesirable plants from

competing with native plants or planted seedlings is necessary for the establishment

of a desirable stand. Minimizing soil disturbance during harvest operations reduces

the potential for flood scouring and helps to control erosion.

The flooding is a severe limitation on sites for dwellings and septic tank absorption

fields. This soil should not be used as a site for dwellings or septic tank absorption

fields unless it is protected by a properly designed flood-control structure. A better

suited soil should be selected. If the vegetation is removed, establishing a plant cover

in unprotected areas and providing for the proper disposal of surface water help to

control erosion and sedimentation.

The capability subclass is 2w.

Px—Pope-Craigsville complex

These nearly level, very deep, well drained soils are on flood plains and on alluvial

fans at the mouth of hollows. Slope ranges from 0 to 3 percent. The soils occur as

areas so intermingled that it was not practical to map them separately. The map unit

is about 50 percent Pope sandy loam and 30 percent Craigsville gravelly sandy

loam.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

29

Typically, the surface layer of this Pope soil is composed of hardwood leaf litter and

brown sandy loam having a combined thickness of about 6 inches thick. The subsoil

is sandy loam to a depth of 36 inches. The upper 9 inches is dark yellowish brown,

and the lower 21 inches is yellowish brown. The substratum extends to a depth of

more than 60 inches. It is yellowish brown sandy loam.

Typically, the surface layer of this Craigsville soil is composed of hardwood leaf

litter and dark brown gravelly sandy loam having a combined thickness of about 8

inches. The subsoil extends to a depth of 37 inches. The upper 21 inches is dark

yellowish brown extremely gravelly sandy loam. The lower 8 inches of the subsoil is

dark yellowish brown very gravelly sandy loam. The substratum extends to a depth of

more than 60 inches. It is dark yellowish brown extremely gravelly sandy loam.

Included with these soils in mapping are a few small areas of the well drained

Chavies and Laidig soils. Also included are a few small areas that include sand and

gravel bars directly adjacent to the stream channels and a few small areas of soils

that have a seasonal high water table within a depth of 3 feet. Inclusions make up

about 20 percent of this map unit.

The available water capacity is moderate or high in this Pope soil and low or

moderate in this Craigsville soil. Permeability is moderate or moderately rapid in the

Figure 7.—A meadow along Blue Run in an area of Pope sandy loam.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

30

Pope soil and moderately rapid in the Craigsville soil. Runoff is slow on both soils.

Natural fertility is moderate. In unlimed areas reaction ranges from extremely acid to

strongly acid in the Pope soil and is very strongly acid or strongly acid in the

Craigsville soil. Depth to bedrock is more than 60 inches in both soils.

Most areas of these soils are used as woodland or for hay and pasture.

These soils are suited to cultivated crops, hay, and pasture. Droughtiness is a

major management concern during dry periods in areas of the Craigsville soil. In

places crops are subject to damage from flooding. Growing cover crops, incorporating

crop residue into the soil, applying a system of conservation tillage, and using a crop

rotation that includes hay help to improve the water-holding capacity and maintain soil

fertility and tilth. Proper stocking rates that maintain desirable grasses and legumes

and a rotation grazing system are major pasture management needs.

The potential productivity for trees is moderately high on these soils. Common tree

species include red oak, sycamore, basswood, and yellow-poplar. Plant competition is

a management concern in areas of the Pope and Craigsville soils. Seedling mortality

is an additional concern in areas of the Craigsville soil. Intensive management to

keep undesirable plants from competing with native plants or planted seedlings may

be necessary for the establishment of a desirable stand. Minimizing soil disturbance

during harvest operations reduces the potential for flood scouring and helps to control

erosion.

The flooding is a major limitation on sites for dwellings and septic tank absorption

fields. The moderately rapid permeability in the Craigsville soil is an additional

limitation on sites for septic tank absorption fields. This map unit should not be used

as a site for dwellings or septic tank absorption fields unless the site is protected by a

properly designed flood-control structure. A suitable alternative site should be

selected. If the vegetative cover on these soils is removed, establishing a plant cover

in unprotected areas and providing for the proper disposal of surface water help to

control erosion and sedimentation.

The capability subclass is 2w.

Ss—Sensabaugh silt loam

This nearly level, very deep, well drained soil is on flood plains along secondary

streams and their tributaries in the northern part of the county. It is subject to

occasional flooding. Slope ranges from 0 to 3 percent.

Typically, the surface layer is dark brown silt loam about 9 inches thick. The subsoil

is brown gravelly loam about 24 inches thick. The substratum extends to a depth of

more than 60 inches. It is brown very gravelly loam.

Included with this soil in mapping are a few small areas of the well drained Pope,

Craigsville, Vandalia, and Laidig soils. Also included are a few small areas of poorly

drained soils, soils that are subject to rare flooding, and soils that have slopes of

more than 3 percent.

The available water capacity of this Sensabaugh soil is moderate or high.

Permeability is moderate or moderately rapid. Runoff is slow. Natural fertility is high. In

unlimed areas reaction ranges from moderately acid to slightly alkaline. Depth to

bedrock is more than 60 inches.

Most areas of this soil are used as meadow or pasture or for cultivated crops. A

few are used as woodland or are reverting to woodland.

This soil is suited to cultivated crops, hay, and pasture. Crops can be grown

continuously on this soil, but a cover crop is needed to help control erosion.

Incorporating the residue from the cover crop into the soil helps to maintain soil

fertility and tilth. In places crops are subject to damage from flooding. Proper stocking

rates that maintain desirable grasses and legumes, a rotation grazing system, and
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

31

deferment of grazing in the spring until the soil is reasonably firm are major pasture

management needs.

The potential productivity is moderately high for trees on this soil. Common tree

species include red oak, sycamore, basswood, and yellow-poplar. Plant competition is

a management concern. Intensive management to keep undesirable plants from

competing with native plants or planted seedlings is necessary for the establishment

of a desirable stand. The soil is subject to rutting when heavy equipment is operated

on it during wet periods. Minimizing soil disturbance during harvest operations

reduces the potential for flood scouring and helps to control erosion.

The flooding is the main management concern on sites for dwellings and septic

tank absorption fields. This soil should not be used as a site for dwellings and septic

tank absorption fields unless the site is protected by a properly designed flood-control

structure. A suitable alternative site should be selected. If the vegetative cover is

removed, establishing a plant cover in unprotected areas and providing for the proper

disposal of surface water help to control erosion and sedimentation.

The capability subclass is 2w.

Ud—Udorthents, smoothed

These nearly level to very steep, very shallow to very deep, well drained soils are

mostly in areas that have been disturbed by road construction or by earth moving

associated with mining activities, or both. The soils are throughout the county. Slope

ranges from 0 to 70 percent.

Typically, this map unit consists of dark yellowish brown to yellowish brown

channery or very channery soil material. In most areas these soils are well drained,

but some areas include wet soils. Most of the soil material is loamy, but in some areas

the soil material is clayey. Reaction ranges from very strongly acid to neutral. Fertility

is generally low.

Included with these soils in mapping are a few small areas of the well drained

Craigsville, Fairpoint, Gilpin, Laidig, Pineville, Pope, Sensabaugh, Upshur, and

Vandalia soils. Also included are a few small areas that have been covered with

concrete or asphalt. Inclusions make up about 20 percent of this map unit.

It is impractical to estimate the physical and chemical properties of these soils

because of the disturbed nature of the soil material and the high degree of variability.

Most fill areas are more than 60 inches deep to bedrock. Runoff ranges from slow in

nearly level areas to very rapid in very steep areas.

These soils generally are not used for cultivated crops, hay, pasture, or woodland.

Some areas have been seeded to sericea lespedeza, orchardgrass, and fescue to

help control erosion and sedimentation. Trees that are naturally invading this map unit

include yellow-poplar, sycamore, and birch.

Because of its extreme variability, an onsite investigation is necessary to determine

the suitability of this map unit for any proposed use. If the vegetative cover is

removed, establishing a plant cover in unprotected areas and providing for the proper

disposal of surface water help to control erosion and sedimentation.

These soils are not assigned a capability subclass.

VaD—Vandalia silt loam, 15 to 25 percent slopes

This moderately steep, very deep, well drained soil is on footslopes and in areas

around the head of drainageways. It is in the northern part of the county.

Typically, the surface layer of this Vandalia soil is dark brown silt loam about

8 inches thick. The subsoil extends to a depth of 44 inches. The upper 6 inches is
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

32

brown silty clay loam. The next 14 inches is reddish brown silty clay. The lower

16 inches is reddish brown channery silty clay. The substratum extends to a depth of

more than 60 inches. It is reddish brown channery silty clay.

Included with this soil in mapping are a few small areas of the well drained Gilpin,

Lily, Pineville, Sensabaugh, and Upshur soils. Also included are a few small areas of

soils that have a seasonal high water table within a depth of 2.5 feet, soils that have

as much as 15 percent of their surface covered with stones, soils that have slopes of

less than 15 percent, soils that have slopes of more than 25 percent, and soils that

have had more than 75 percent of the original topsoil removed by erosion. Included

soils make up about 25 percent of this map unit.

The available water capacity of this Vandalia soil is moderate or high. Permeability

is slow or moderately slow. Runoff is rapid. Natural fertility is moderate or high. In

unlimed areas reaction ranges from very strongly acid to slightly acid. Depth to

bedrock is more than 60 inches.

About half of the acreage of this soil is used as woodland. The other half is used as

meadow or pasture.

This soil has limited suitability for cultivated crops. It is better suited to hay and

pasture. The hazard of erosion is severe in unprotected areas and is a management

concern. If the soil is cultivated, applying a system of conservation tillage, contour

stripcropping, using a crop rotation that includes hay, maintaining a protective cover

of sod in shallow drainageways, and returning crop residue to the soil help to control

erosion and to maintain soil fertility and tilth. Proper stocking rates that maintain

desirable grasses and legumes, a rotation grazing system, and deferment of grazing

in the spring until the soil is reasonably firm are major pasture management needs.

The potential productivity for trees is moderately high on this soil. Common tree

species include red oak, white oak, hickory, American beech, and yellow-poplar. Plant

competition, the equipment limitation, and the control of erosion on logging roads and

skid trails are management concerns. Intensive management to keep undesirable

plants from competing with native plants or planted seedlings is necessary for the

establishment of a desirable stand. The use of equipment should be restricted

during wet periods because the soil has low soil strength and is susceptible to soil

slippage. Laying out roads and skid trails on the contour, diverting surface water

away from the roads, establishing and maintaining a crown on the road, and

establishing and maintaining a protective cover of sod on roadbanks help to control

erosion.

The slope, a high shrink-swell potential in the subsoil, the slow permeability in the

subsoil, and the hazard of soil slippage are major management concerns on sites for

dwellings and septic tank absorption fields. Because of the moderately steep slopes,

additional grading is needed on sites for roads, dwellings, and other structures and

lawns are difficult to maintain. Selecting areas of less sloping soils, designing

dwellings so that conform to the landscape, backfilling with porous material, and

constructing wide, reinforced footings that are adequately drained help to overcome

the slope, the high shrink-swell potential, and the hazard of soil slippage on sites for

dwellings. Selecting areas of less sloping soils, installing the absorption fields on the

contour, installing a larger absorption field than is typical, and selecting areas of

less clayey soils help to overcome the slope and the slow permeability on sites for

septic tank absorption fields. Removal of the vegetative cover should be held to a

minimum on construction sites. Establishing a plant cover in unprotected areas and

providing for the proper disposal of surface water help to control erosion and

sedimentation.

The capability subclass is 4e.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

33

VaE—Vandalia silt loam, 25 to 35 percent slopes

This steep, very deep, well drained soil is on footslopes and benches at the base

of the steeper slopes and in areas around the head of drainageways. It is in the

northern part of the county.

Typically, the surface layer of this Vandalia soil is dark brown silt loam about

8 inches thick. The subsoil extends to a depth of 44 inches. The upper 6 inches is

brown silty clay loam. The next 14 inches is reddish brown silty clay. The lower

16 inches is reddish brown channery silty clay. The substratum extends to a depth of

more than 60 inches. It is reddish brown channery silty clay.

Included with this soil in mapping are a few small areas of the well drained Gilpin,

Pineville, Sensabaugh, and Upshur soils. Also included are a few small areas of soils

that have as much as 3 percent of their surface covered with stones, soils that have

slopes ranging from 15 to 25 percent, soils that have slopes of more than 35 percent,

and soils that have had more than 75 percent of the original topsoil removed by

erosion. Included soils make up about 25 percent of this map unit.

The available water capacity is moderate or high. Permeability is slow or

moderately slow. Runoff is very rapid. Natural fertility is moderate or high. In unlimed

areas reaction ranges from very strongly acid to slightly acid. Depth to bedrock is

more than 60 inches.

Most areas of this soil are used as woodland (fig. 8). Some are used as meadow or

pasture.

This soil is not suited to cultivated crops or hay, but it is suited to pasture. The very

severe hazard of erosion in unprotected areas and overgrazing in pastured areas are

major management concerns. Proper stocking rates that maintain desirable grasses

and legumes, a rotation grazing system, and deferment of grazing in the spring until

the soil is reasonably firm are major pasture management needs.

The potential productivity for trees is moderately high on this soil. Common tree

species include red oak, white oak, hickory, American beech, and yellow-poplar. The

hazard of erosion, the equipment limitation, and plant competition are major

management concerns. Applying the Best Management Practices (BMPs) as

recommended by the West Virginia Division of Forestry helps to overcome the severe

hazard of erosion during harvest. The use of equipment should be restricted during

wet periods because of low soil strength and the hazard of soil slippage. Intensive

management to keep undesirable plants from competing with native plants or planted

seedlings is necessary for the establishment of a desirable stand. Laying out roads

and skid trails on the contour, diverting surface water away from the roads,

establishing and maintaining a crown on the road, and establishing and maintaining a

protective cover of sod on roadbanks help to control erosion.

The slope, the high shrink-swell potential in the subsoil, the slow permeability in

the subsoil, and soil slippage are the main management concerns on sites for

dwellings and septic tank absorption fields. This soil is not suited to most urban uses.

A suitable alternative site for dwellings and septic tank absorption fields should be

considered. If the vegetation on this soil is removed, establishing a plant cover in

unprotected areas and providing for the proper disposal of surface water help to

control erosion and sedimentation.

The capability subclass is 6e.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

34

Figure 8.—A stand of oaks in an area of Vandalia silt loam, 25 to 35 percent slopes.

W—Water

This map unit consists of areas inundated with water for most of the year. It

generally includes rivers, lakes, and ponds.

No interpretations are given for this map unit.
35

Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

This soil survey is an inventory and evaluation of the soils in the survey area. It can

be used to adjust land uses to the limitations and potentials of natural resources and

the environment. Also, it can help to prevent soil-related failures in land uses.

In preparing a soil survey, soil scientists, conservationists, engineers, and others

collect extensive field data about the nature and behavioral characteristics of the

soils. They collect data on erosion, droughtiness, flooding, and other factors that

affect various soil uses and management. Field experience and collected data on soil

properties and performance are used as a basis in predicting soil behavior.

Information in this section can be used to plan the use and management of soils

for crops and pasture; as rangeland and woodland; as sites for buildings, sanitary

facilities, highways and other transportation systems, and parks and other

recreational facilities; and for wildlife habitat. It can be used to identify the potentials

and limitations of each soil for specific land uses and to help prevent construction

failures caused by unfavorable soil properties.

Planners and others using soil survey information can evaluate the effect of

specific land uses on productivity and on the environment in all or part of the survey

area. The survey can help planners to maintain or create a land use pattern in

harmony with the natural soil.

Contractors can use this survey to locate sources of sand and gravel, roadfill, and

topsoil. They can use it to identify areas where bedrock, wetness, or very firm soil

layers can cause difficulty in excavation.

Health officials, highway officials, engineers, and others may also find this survey

useful. The survey can help them plan the safe disposal of wastes and locate sites for

pavements, sidewalks, campgrounds, playgrounds, lawns, and trees and shrubs.

Crops and Pasture

General management needed for crops and pasture is suggested in this section.

The estimated yields of the main crops and pasture plants are listed, the system of

land capability classification used by the Natural Resources Conservation Service is

explained, and prime farmland is described.

Planners of management systems for individual fields or farms should consider the

detailed information given in the description of each soil under the heading “Detailed

Soil Map Units.” Specific information can be obtained from the local office of the

Natural Resources Conservation Service or the Cooperative Extension Service.

Most of the soils in the survey area have a moderate or low supply of basic plant

nutrients, making the application of lime and fertilizer necessary. The amounts to be

applied should be based on the type of soil, crop history, severity of erosion, the type

of crop grown, the level of desired yield, and analyses of the soil and plants.

The organic matter content is low in most soils in the county, and increasing it is

not normally feasible. In soils suited to crops, it is important to maintain the current

level of organic matter content by adding farm manure; using crop residue in and on

the soil; and growing sod crops, cover crops, and green-manure crops. The organic

Use and Management of the Soils
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

36

matter content can be maintained in soils used for pasture with proper pasture

management, which helps to prevent overgrazing and soil erosion.

Tillage tends to break down soil structure and increases the oxidation of organic

matter by soil organisms. It should be kept to the minimum necessary to prepare the

seedbed and help control weeds. Avoiding tillage during periods when soil moisture is

excessive or insufficient helps to reduce the loss of soil structure and minimize soil

compaction. Maintaining the organic matter content of the plow layer also helps to

protect the soil structure.

In cultivated areas, runoff and erosion generally occur before a good cover of

crops is established or soon after the crops have been harvested. All of the gently

sloping and steeper soils that are cultivated are subject to erosion and thus require a

suitable cropping system for erosion control. The main management needs of such a

system are the proper rotation of crops, minimum tillage, mulch planting, the return of

crop residue to the soil, cover crops and green-manure crops, and applications of

lime and fertilizer. Other major erosion-control practices are contour cultivation,

contour stripcropping, diversions that control runoff, and grassed waterways. The

effectiveness of a particular combination of these measures can differ from one soil to

another.

Proper pasture management is the key to controlling erosion in pastured areas. A

high level of pasture management, including liming, fertilizing, controlled grazing, and

carefully selecting the mixture of the pasture vegetation, is needed on most soils to

provide enough ground cover to help prevent erosion and maintain long-term

productivity. Grazing is controlled by rotating the livestock from one pasture to

another and providing recovery periods to allow regrowth of forages. Different soil

types may require different pasture mixtures based on soil fertility, severity of erosion,

and available moisture. Available soil moisture may be improved in many soil types by

subsoiling, which improves infiltration and slows surface runoff. Much of the erosion in

pastures can be prevented by properly locating watering facilities, managing the

winter feeding areas, and restricting livestock access to creeks.

In addition to the traditional crops oriented toward livestock systems, the potential

exists for the development of other economically important agriculture in Clay County.

Some small-scale orchards and vineyards are present in the county (fig. 9). Where

such operations are undertaken, local climate and slope considerations are important

factors of viable production. Planting the appropriate varieties of crops, selecting

areas where there are no frost pockets, and maintaining soil fertility are major

productivity factors. The planning and maintenance of the layout of orchards and

vineyards, including the control of runoff, will help to ensure accessibility for crop

management and harvesting.

Cultivated crops other than those shown in table 5 are grown in home gardens

throughout the survey area. Estimated yields for garden crops are not given in the

table, but the suitability for cultivated crops is given in the section “Detailed Soil Map

Units” for each soil type. The local office of the Natural Resources Conservation

Service or the West Virginia University Extension Service can provide additional

information about the management and productivity of soils for these crops.

Yields per Acre

The average yields per acre that can be expected of the principal crops under a

high level of management are shown in table 5. In any given year, yields may be

higher or lower than those indicated in the table because of variations in rainfall and

other climatic factors. The land capability classification of each map unit also is shown

in the table.

The yields are based mainly on the experience and records of farmers,

conservationists, and extension agents. Available yield data from nearby counties and

results of field trials and demonstrations are also considered.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

37

The management needed to obtain the indicated yields of the various crops

depends on the kind of soil and the crop. Management can include drainage, erosion

control, and protection from flooding; the proper planting and seeding rates; suitable

high-yielding crop varieties; appropriate and timely tillage; control of weeds, plant

diseases, and harmful insects; favorable soil reaction and optimum levels of nitrogen,

phosphorus, potassium, and trace elements for each crop; effective use of crop

residue, barnyard manure, and green manure crops; and harvesting that ensures the

smallest possible loss.

The estimated yields reflect the productive capacity of each soil for each of the

principal crops. Yields may increase as new production technology is developed. The

productivity of a given soil compared with that of other soils, however, is not likely to

change.

Crops other than those shown in table 5 are grown in the survey area, but

estimated yields are not listed because the acreage of such crops is small. The local

office of the Natural Resources Conservation Service or of the Cooperative Extension

Service can provide information about the management and productivity of the soils

for those crops.

Land Capability Classification

Land capability classification shows, in a general way, the suitability of soils for

most kinds of field crops. Crops that require special management are excluded. The

soils are grouped according to their limitations for field crops, the risk of damage if

they are used for crops, and the way they respond to management. The criteria used

Figure 9.—A vineyard in an area of Gilpin-Upshur complex, 15 to 25 percent slopes.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

38

in grouping the soils do not include major and generally expensive landforming that

would change slope, depth, or other characteristics of the soils, nor do they include

possible but unlikely major reclamation projects. Capability classification is not a

substitute for interpretations designed to show suitability and limitations of groups of

soils for woodland and for engineering purposes.

In the capability system, soils are generally grouped at three levels—capability

class, subclass, and unit. Only class and subclass are used in this survey.

Capability classes, the broadest groups, are designated by numerals 1 through 9.

The numerals indicate progressively greater limitations and narrower choices for

practical use. The classes are defined as follows:

Class 1 soils have few limitations that restrict their use.

Class 2 soils have moderate limitations that reduce the choice of plants or that

require moderate conservation practices.

Class 3 soils have severe limitations that reduce the choice of plants or that require

special conservation practices, or both.

Class 4 soils have very severe limitations that reduce the choice of plants or that

require very careful management, or both.

Class 5 soils are not likely to erode but have other limitations, impractical to

remove, that limit their use.

Class 6 soils have severe limitations that make them generally unsuitable for

cultivation.

Class 7 soils have very severe limitations that make them unsuitable for cultivation.

Class 8 soils and miscellaneous areas have limitations that nearly preclude their

use for commercial crop production.

Capability subclasses are soil groups within one class. They are designated by

adding a small letter, e, w, s, or c, to the class numeral, for example, 2e. The letter e

shows that the main hazard is the risk of erosion unless close-growing plant cover is

maintained; w shows that water in or on the soil interferes with plant growth or

cultivation (in some soils the wetness can be partly corrected by artificial drainage); s

shows that the soil is limited mainly because it is shallow, droughty, or stony; and c,

used in only some parts of the United States, shows that the chief limitation is climate

that is very cold or very dry.

In class 1 there are no subclasses because the soils of this class have few

limitations. Class 5 contains only the subclasses indicated by w, s, or c because the

soils in class 5 are subject to little or no erosion. They have other limitations that

restrict their use to pasture, rangeland, woodland, wildlife habitat, or recreation.

The acreage of soils in each capability class and subclass is shown in table 6. The

capability classification of the map units in this survey area is given in the section

“Detailed Soil Map Units” and in the yields table.

Prime Farmland

Prime farmland is one of several kinds of important farmland defined by the U.S.

Department of Agriculture. It is of major importance in meeting the Nation’s short- and

long-range needs for food and fiber. Because the supply of high-quality farmland is

limited, the U.S. Department of Agriculture recognizes that responsible levels of

government, as well as individuals, should encourage and facilitate the wise use of

our Nation’s prime farmland.

Prime farmland, as defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is land that has

the best combination of physical and chemical characteristics for producing food,

feed, forage, fiber, and oilseed crops and is available for these uses. It could be

cultivated land, pastureland, forest land, or other land, but it is not urban or built-up

land or water areas. The soil qualities, growing season, and moisture supply are

those needed for the soil to economically produce sustained high yields of crops

when proper management, including water management, and acceptable farming
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

39

methods are applied. In general, prime farmland has an adequate and dependable

supply of moisture from precipitation or irrigation, a favorable temperature and

growing season, acceptable acidity or alkalinity, an acceptable salt and sodium

content, and few or no rocks. It is permeable to water and air. It is not excessively

erodible or saturated with water for long periods, and it either is not frequently flooded

during the growing season or is protected from flooding. The slope ranges mainly

from 0 to 6 percent. More detailed information about the criteria for prime farmland is

available at the local office of the Natural Resources Conservation Service.

About 6,650 acres in Clay County, or nearly 3 percent of the total acreage, meets

the soil requirements for prime farmland. Scattered areas of this land are along

streams and rivers in the county (fig. 10). Although these soils possess the

characteristics of prime farmland, they do not account for a dominant portion of

agricultural output from the county because they typically are in individual areas that

are too small to farm.

A recent trend in land use in some parts of the survey area has been the loss of

some prime farmland to commercial and urban uses. The loss of prime farmland to

other uses puts pressure on marginal lands, which generally are more erodible,

droughty, and less productive and cannot be easily cultivated.

The map units in the survey area that are considered prime farmland are listed in

table 7. This list does not constitute a recommendation for a particular land use. On

some soils included in the list, measures that overcome a hazard or limitation, such

as flooding, wetness, and droughtiness, are needed. Onsite evaluation is needed to

determine whether or not the hazard or limitation has been overcome by corrective

measures. The extent of each listed map unit is shown in table 4. The location is

shown on the detailed soil maps at the back of this publication. The soil qualities that

affect use and management are described under the heading “Detailed Soil Map

Units.”

Figure 10.—An area of Chavies fine sandy loam along the Elk River near Procious. Areas of this

soil are considered to be prime farmland.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

40

Woodland Management and Productivity

Barbara McWhorter, state staff forester, Natural Resources Conservation Service, helped to prepare

this section.

Forestland in Clay County makes up about 198,500 acres, or nearly 90 percent of

the total acreage in the county (DiGiovanni 1990). The tracts range in size from small

farm woodlots to large areas of corporate-owned woodlands.

The common forest types, or natural associations of tree species, and the

percentage of the woodland in which they occur are the oak-hickory type, which

makes up about 84 percent, and the northern hardwoods type, which makes up

about 16 percent (DiGiovanni 1990). The usage of these forest types belies the fact

that a great diversity of forest species exist across the county, depending on soil type,

aspect, landform, and the presence of a seed source. Oaks, hickories, beech, red

maples, black gum, cucumbertree, and basswood generally occur in areas

throughout the county. Yellow-poplar, basswood, white ash, and sugar maple may be

found in coves. Chestnut oak, scarlet oak, black oak, Virginia pine, and red maple are

predominant along ridges because they can tolerate the wind and drought. Northern

red oak, shagbark hickory, and a variety of other species are common on side slopes

and the broader ridgetops. Their presence varies primarily with aspect. Pioneer

species, such as sassafras, sourwood, dogwood, sumac, blackgum, red maple, black

locust, redbud, and pines, are commonly in disturbed areas that have been

revegetated. White pines and other trees may be planted in areas of strip mines, and

many pioneer species occur in the strip-mined areas. Other species that are relatively

rare or in scattered areas of the county are black cherry, black walnut, American elm,

and butternut.

Woodland is a very important component of the economic resources of Clay

County. Currently, there are two full-time sawmill operations in the county, in addition

to several smaller part-time mills (West Virginia Department of Agriculture 1991). A

large proportion of harvested timber is exported out of the county in log form, to

become part of value-added economies in other counties, states, or countries.

Harvested logs are utilized for many purposes, ranging from fine veneer to pulp for

paper. The recent establishment of oriented-strand board plants in adjacent counties

has increased the utilization of smaller, poorly formed trees, increasing the

silvicultural and marketing possibilities for forest managers. Additionally, forests

provide habitat for a larger ecological framework that includes many other important

benefits of various economic significance. The gathering of medicinal and culinary

items from forest ecosystems has a long history in the region, and it promises future

benefits if management is appropriate.

Many factors determine the productivity of forests in the county. Among them are

available moisture, soil physical and chemical characteristics, cutting (silvicultural)

history, insect and disease factors, fire events, and aspect. This soil survey contains

information directly pertinent to all of these factors, except for insects and disease.

Table 8 contains specific interpretations for woodland management. Additionally,

table 16 contains many of the soil characteristics pertaining to available moisture and

physical characteristics.

The aspect of soils with slopes of 15 percent or more affects the potential

productivity of forests. North aspects are defined as having compass direction that

ranges from 315 to 135 degrees. South aspects have compass direction ranging from

135 to 315 degrees. The potential productivity of forests is generally higher on north

aspects than on south aspects, in part, because of the differences in soil moisture,

humidity, and solar radiation patterns (Hicks 1998). Aspect also affects the

occurrence of tree species and the degree of management concerns. In particular,

soils on south aspects are more prone to forest fires, which usually burn hotter and
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

41

more completely on south slopes than on north slopes. Thus, trees on soils with

south aspect often suffer more damage from fires than trees on north-facing

sites.

Table 8 can be used by forest owners and managers in planning the use of soils for

wood crops. Only the soils suitable for the production of commercial trees are listed.

The table lists the soil limitations to be considered in management. Slight, moderate,

and severe indicate the degree of the major soil limitations.

Erosion hazard is the probability that significant soil loss will occur as a result of

site preparation and cutting where the soil is exposed along roads, skid trails, and fire

lanes and in log-handling areas. Forests that have been burned or overgrazed are

also subject to erosion. Ratings of the erosion hazard are based primarily on the

percent of slope and secondarily on the erodibility of the soil. A rating of slight

indicates that no particular prevention measures are needed under ordinary

conditions. A rating of moderate indicates that erosion-control measures are needed

in certain silvicultural activities. A rating of severe indicates that special precautions

are needed to control erosion in most silvicultural activities.

Equipment limitation reflects the characteristics and conditions of the soil that

restrict use of the equipment generally needed in woodland management or

harvesting. The chief characteristics and conditions considered in the ratings are

slope, the texture of the surface layer, soil wetness, rock outcrops, and stones on the

surface. A rating of slight indicates that under normal conditions the kind of

equipment and season of use are not significantly restricted by soil factors. Soil

wetness can restrict equipment use, but the wet period does not exceed 1 month. A

rating of moderate indicates that equipment use is moderately restricted because of

one or more soil factors. If the soil is wet, the wetness restricts equipment use for a

period of 1 to 3 months. A rating of severe indicates that equipment use is severely

restricted either as to the kind of equipment that can be used or the season of use.

If the soil is wet, the wetness restricts equipment use for more than 3 months.

Seedling mortality refers to the death of naturally occurring or planted tree

seedlings, as influenced by the kinds of soil, soil wetness, or topographic conditions.

The factors used in rating the soils for seedling mortality are texture of the surface

layer, rock fragments in the surface layer, effective rooting depth, and slope aspect. A

rating of slight indicates that seedling mortality is not likely to be a problem under

normal conditions. Expected mortality is less than 25 percent. A rating of moderate

indicates that some problems from seedling mortality can be expected. Extra

precautions are advisable. Expected mortality is 25 to 50 percent. A rating of severe

indicates that seedling mortality is a serious problem. Extra precautions are

important. Replanting may be necessary. Expected mortality is more than 50 percent.

Plant competition ratings indicate the degree to which undesirable species are

expected to invade and grow when openings are made in the forest canopy. The main

factors that affect plant competition are the available water capacity and overall

potential productivity of the soil. A rating of slight indicates that competition from

undesirable plants is not likely to prevent natural regeneration or suppress the more

desirable species. Planted seedlings can generally become established without

undue competition. A rating of moderate indicates that competition may delay the

establishment of desirable species. Competition may hamper stand development, but

it will not prevent the eventual development of fully stocked stands. A rating of severe

indicates that competition can be expected to prevent regeneration unless

precautionary measures are applied.

The potential productivity of merchantable or common trees on a soil is expressed

as a site index and as a volume number. The site index is the average height, in feet,

that dominant and codominant trees of a given species attain in a specified number

of years. The site index applies to fully stocked, even-aged, unmanaged stands.

Commonly grown trees are those that woodland managers generally favor in
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

42

intermediate or improvement cuttings. They are selected on the basis of growth rate,

quality, value, and marketability.

The volume of wood fiber, a number, is the yield likely to be produced by the most

important trees. This number, expressed as cubic meters per hectare per year,

indicates the amount of fiber produced in a fully stocked, even-aged, unmanaged

stand.

Recreation

John Cox, district conservationist, Natural Resources Conservation Service, helped to prepare this

section.

Clay County offers a number of recreational opportunities for the public to enjoy.

The Wallback Public Hunting and Fishing Area, which is adjacent to Interstate 79, is

easily accessible to the public. Many other hunting and fishing opportunities are

available throughout the county on private and company-owned land. Laurel Creek is

stocked with trout during the spring months by the Department of Natural Resources.

The Elk River offers very good warmwater fishing with many public access areas

along the roads that follow the river. One such access point is off Route 4 in

Mary L. Chiltin Park, which also has picnic facilities. The major attraction in Clay

County is the Golden Delicious Festival, which is held the first weekend in October.

The County Fair is held in September at Bradley Field in Clay, and the Clay

Swimming Pool is open to the public during the summer months.

The soils of the survey area are rated in table 9 according to limitations that affect

their suitability for recreation. The ratings are based on restrictive soil features, such

as wetness, slope, and texture of the surface layer. Susceptibility to flooding is

considered. Not considered in the ratings, but important in evaluating a site, are the

location and accessibility of the area, the size and shape of the area and its scenic

quality, vegetation, access to water, potential water impoundment sites, and access to

public wastewater treatment. The capacity of the soil to absorb septic tank effluent

and the ability of the soil to support vegetation are also important. Soils subject to

flooding are limited for recreational uses by the duration and intensity of flooding and

the season when flooding occurs. In planning recreational facilities, onsite

assessment of the height, duration, intensity, and frequency of flooding is essential.

In the table, the degree of soil limitation is expressed as slight, moderate, or

severe. Slight means that soil properties are generally favorable and that limitations

are minor and easily overcome. Moderate means that limitations can be overcome or

alleviated by planning, design, or special maintenance. Severe means that soil

properties are unfavorable and that limitations can be offset only by costly

reclamation, special design, intensive maintenance, limited use, or by a combination

of these measures.

The information in the table can be supplemented by other information in this

survey, for example, interpretations for septic tank absorption fields in table 12 and

interpretations for dwellings without basements and for local roads and streets in

table 11.

Camp areas require site preparation, such as shaping and leveling the tent and

parking areas, stabilizing roads and intensively used areas, and installing sanitary

facilities and utility lines. Camp areas are subject to heavy foot traffic and some

vehicular traffic. The best soils have mild slopes and are not wet or subject to flooding

during the period of use. The surface has few or no stones or boulders, absorbs

rainfall readily but remains firm, and is not dusty when dry. Strong slopes and stones

or boulders can greatly increase the cost of constructing campsites.

Picnic areas are subject to heavy foot traffic. Most vehicular traffic is confined to

access roads and parking areas. The best soils for picnic areas are firm when wet,

are not dusty when dry, are not subject to flooding during the period of use, and do
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

43

not have slopes or stones or boulders that increase the cost of shaping sites or of

building access roads and parking areas.

Playgrounds require soils that can withstand intensive foot traffic. The best soils

are almost level and are not wet or subject to flooding during the period of use. The

surface is free of stones and boulders, is firm after rains, and is not dusty when dry. If

grading is needed, the depth of the soil over bedrock or a hardpan should be

considered.

Paths and trails for hiking and horseback riding should require little or no cutting

and filling. The best soils are not wet, are firm after rains, are not dusty when dry, and

are not subject to flooding during the period of use. They have moderate slopes and

few or no stones or boulders on the surface.

Golf fairways are subject to heavy foot traffic and some light vehicular traffic.

Cutting or filling may be required. The best soils for use as golf fairways are firm when

wet, are not dusty when dry, and are not subject to prolonged flooding during the

period of use. They have moderate slopes and no stones or boulders on the surface.

The suitability of the soil for tees or greens is not considered in rating the soils.

Wildlife Habitat

Casey Schrader, state biologist, Natural Resources Conservation Service, helped to prepare this

section.

Wildlife habitat in Clay County is best suited to the needs of woodland wildlife

species since 90 percent of the survey area is forested. Woodland species include

whitetail deer, wild turkey, and gray and fox squirrels. Ruffed grouse populations are

generally low throughout the county; however, areas that are in the early stages of

succession or regrowth areas from timber harvests typically provide habitat for larger

populations of grouse. The population of black bear is significant and increasing.

The population of openland wildlife species, such as bobwhite quail, dove, and

meadowlark, is low because the acreage of cultivated farmland is limited. Cottontail

rabbits inhabit brushy areas and border areas between woodland and open fields.

Native furbearers and most indigenous nongame species are common throughout

the survey area. The populations of fox, muskrat, skunks, and opossums are large, as

are those of groundhogs, crows, small mammals, and songbirds. The beaver

population is growing, and river otters have been reintroduced to the Elk River valley.

Fur prices have a direct effect on the local population of furbearers.

Large waterfowl species, such as Canada geese, and smaller waterfowl, such as

teal, wood duck, and mallards, are found in small flocks along Elk River and its larger

tributaries. Water birds, such as the great blue heron, sandpipers, and kingfishers,

can be found along streams and waterways throughout the county.

Local rivers, streams, and ponds support various species of warmwater fish.

Common game species include smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, channel catfish,

crappie, muskie, and assorted sunfish. Trout have been stocked in several streams in

the county. Most streams also support numerous nongame species. Fish and other

aquatic populations in some areas have been seriously affected by sedimentation

and acid drainage from coal mining.

Local landowners can manipulate habitat on their property in a manner designed

to increase the carrying capacity for specific types of wildlife. While openland species

are not expected to become prominent unless major land use changes are made,

local populations of such species can be increased through careful planning.

Soils affect the kind and amount of vegetation that is available to wildlife as food

and cover. They also affect the construction of water impoundments. The kind and

abundance of wildlife depend largely on the amount and distribution of food, cover,

and water. Wildlife habitat can be created or improved by planting appropriate
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

44

vegetation, by maintaining the existing plant cover, or by promoting the natural

establishment of desirable plants.

In table 10, the soils in the survey area are rated according to their potential for

providing habitat for various kinds of wildlife. This information can be used in planning

parks, wildlife refuges, nature study areas, and other developments for wildlife; in

selecting soils that are suitable for establishing, improving, or maintaining specific

elements of wildlife habitat; and in determining the intensity of management needed

for each element of the habitat.

The potential of the soil is rated good, fair, poor, or very poor. A rating of good

indicates that the element or kind of habitat is easily established, improved, or

maintained. Few or no limitations affect management, and satisfactory results can be

expected. A rating of fair indicates that the element or kind of habitat can be

established, improved, or maintained in most places. Moderately intensive

management is required for satisfactory results. A rating of poor indicates that

limitations are severe for the designated element or kind of habitat. Habitat can be

created, improved, or maintained in most places, but management is difficult and

must be intensive. A rating of very poor indicates that restrictions for the element or

kind of habitat are very severe and that unsatisfactory results can be expected.

Creating, improving, or maintaining habitat is impractical or impossible.

The elements of wildlife habitat are described in the following paragraphs.

Grain and seed crops are domestic grains and seed-producing herbaceous plants.

Soil properties and features that affect the growth of grain and seed crops are depth

of the root zone, texture of the surface layer, available water capacity, wetness, slope,

surface stoniness, and flooding. Soil temperature and soil moisture are also

considerations. Examples of grain and seed crops are corn, wheat, oats, and barley.

Grasses and legumes are domestic perennial grasses and herbaceous legumes.

Soil properties and features that affect the growth of grasses and legumes are depth

of the root zone, texture of the surface layer, available water capacity, wetness,

surface stoniness, flooding, and slope. Soil temperature and soil moisture are also

considerations. Examples of grasses and legumes are fescue, timothy, bromegrass,

clover, and alfalfa.

Wild herbaceous plants are native or naturally established grasses and forbs,

including weeds. Soil properties and features that affect the growth of these plants

are depth of the root zone, texture of the surface layer, available water capacity,

wetness, surface stoniness, and flooding. Soil temperature and soil moisture are also

considerations. Examples of wild herbaceous plants are bluestem, goldenrod,

beggarticks, quackgrass, and ragweed.

Hardwood trees and woody understory produce nuts and other fruit, buds, catkins,

twigs, bark, and foliage. Soil properties and features that affect the growth of

hardwood trees and shrubs are depth of the root zone, available water capacity, and

wetness. Examples of these plants are oak, birch, cherry, maple, apple, hawthorn,

dogwood, hickory, blackberry, and blueberry. Examples of fruit-producing shrubs that

are suitable for planting on soils rated good are gray dogwood, autumn-olive, and

crabapple.

Coniferous plants furnish browse and seeds. Soil properties and features that

affect the growth of coniferous trees, shrubs, and ground cover are depth of the root

zone, available water capacity, and wetness. Examples of coniferous plants are pine,

spruce, yew, cedar, and hemlock.

Wetland plants are annual and perennial wild herbaceous plants that grow on

moist or wet sites. Submerged or floating aquatic plants are excluded. Soil properties

and features affecting wetland plants are texture of the surface layer, wetness,

reaction, salinity, slope, and surface stoniness. Examples of wetland plants are

smartweed, arrowhead, burrweed, pickerelweed, cordgrass, rushes, sedges, and

reeds.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

45

Shallow water areas have an average depth of less than 5 feet. Some are naturally

wet areas. Others are created by dams, levees, or other water-control structures. Soil

properties and features affecting shallow water areas are depth to bedrock, wetness,

surface stoniness, slope, and permeability. Examples of shallow water areas are

marshes, swamps, and ponds.

The habitat for various kinds of wildlife is described in the following paragraphs.

Habitat for openland wildlife consists of cropland, pasture, meadows, and areas

that are overgrown with grasses, herbs, shrubs, and vines. These areas produce

grain and seed crops, grasses and legumes, and wild herbaceous plants. Wildlife

attracted to these areas include meadow vole, meadowlark, field sparrow, cottontail,

and red fox.

Habitat for woodland wildlife consists of areas of deciduous plants or coniferous

plants or both and associated grasses, legumes, and wild herbaceous plants. Wildlife

attracted to these areas include wild turkey, ruffed grouse, woodcock, thrushes,

woodpeckers, squirrels, gray fox, raccoon, and deer.

Habitat for wetland wildlife consists of open, marshy or swampy shallow water

areas. Some of the wildlife attracted to such areas are ducks, geese, herons, shore

birds, muskrat, frogs, and tree swallows.

Engineering

John Eddy, state conservation engineer, helped to prepare this section.

This section provides information for planning land uses related to urban

development and to water management. Soils are rated for various uses, and the

most limiting features are identified. Ratings are given for building site development,

sanitary facilities, construction materials, and water management. The ratings are

based on observed performance of the soils and on the estimated data and test data

in the “Soil Properties” section.

Information in this section is intended for land use planning, for evaluating land use

alternatives, and for planning site investigations prior to design and construction. The

information, however, has limitations. For example, estimates and other data

generally apply only to that part of the soil within a depth of 5 or 6 feet. Because of

the map scale, small areas of different soils may be included within the mapped areas

of a specific soil.

The information is not site specific and does not eliminate the need for onsite

investigation of the soils or for testing and analysis by personnel experienced in the

design and construction of engineering works.

Government ordinances and regulations that restrict certain land uses or impose

specific design criteria were not considered in preparing the information in this

section. Local ordinances and regulations should be considered in planning, in site

selection, and in design.

Soil properties, site features, and observed performance were considered in

determining the ratings in this section. During the fieldwork for this soil survey,

determinations were made about grain-size distribution, liquid limit, plasticity index,

soil reaction, depth to bedrock, hardness of bedrock within 5 or 6 feet of the surface,

soil wetness, depth to a seasonal high water table, slope, likelihood of flooding,

natural soil structure aggregation, and soil density. Data were collected about kinds of

clay minerals, mineralogy of the sand and silt fractions, and the kinds of adsorbed

cations. Estimates were made for erodibility, permeability, corrosivity, shrink-swell

potential, available water capacity, and other behavioral characteristics affecting

engineering uses.

This information can be used to evaluate the potential of areas for residential,

commercial, industrial, and recreational uses; make preliminary estimates of

construction conditions; evaluate alternative routes for roads, streets, highways,
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

46

pipelines, and underground cables; evaluate alternative sites for sanitary landfills,

septic tank absorption fields, and sewage lagoons; plan detailed onsite investigations

of soils and geology; locate potential sources of gravel, sand, earthfill, and topsoil;

plan drainage systems, irrigation systems, ponds, terraces, and other structures for

soil and water conservation; and predict performance of proposed small structures

and pavements by comparing the performance of existing similar structures on the

same or similar soils.

The information in the tables, along with the soil maps, the soil descriptions, and

other data provided in this survey, can be used to make additional interpretations.

Some of the terms used in this soil survey have a special meaning in soil science

and are defined in the Glossary.

Building Site Development

Table 11 shows the degree and kind of soil limitations that affect shallow

excavations, dwellings with and without basements, small commercial buildings, local

roads and streets, and lawns and landscaping. The limitations are considered slight if

soil properties and site features are generally favorable for the indicated use and

limitations are minor and easily overcome; moderate if soil properties or site features

are not favorable for the indicated use and special planning, design, or maintenance

is needed to overcome or minimize the limitations; and severe if soil properties or site

features are so unfavorable or so difficult to overcome that special design, significant

increases in construction costs, and possibly increased maintenance are required.

Special feasibility studies may be required where the soil limitations are severe.

Shallow excavations are trenches or holes dug to a maximum depth of 5 or 6 feet

for basements, graves, utility lines, open ditches, and other purposes. The ratings are

based on soil properties, site features, and observed performance of the soils. The

ease of digging, filling, and compacting is affected by the depth to bedrock, a

cemented pan, or a very firm dense layer; stone content; soil texture; and slope. The

time of the year that excavations can be made is affected by the depth to a seasonal

high water table and the susceptibility of the soil to flooding. The resistance of the

excavation walls or banks to sloughing or caving is affected by soil texture and depth

to the water table.

Dwellings and small commercial buildings are structures built on shallow

foundations on undisturbed soil. The load limit is the same as that for single-family

dwellings no higher than three stories. Ratings are made for small commercial

buildings without basements, for dwellings with basements, and for dwellings without

basements. The ratings are based on soil properties, site features, and observed

performance of the soils. A high water table, flooding, shrinking and swelling, and

organic layers can cause the movement of footings. A high water table, depth to

bedrock or to a cemented pan, large stones, slope, and flooding affect the ease of

excavation and construction. Landscaping and grading that require cuts and fills of

more than 5 or 6 feet are not considered.

Local roads and streets have an all-weather surface and carry automobile and light

truck traffic all year. They have a subgrade of cut or fill soil material; a base of gravel,

crushed rock, or stabilized soil material; and a flexible or rigid surface. Cuts and fills

are generally limited to less than 6 feet. The ratings are based on soil properties, site

features, and observed performance of the soils. Depth to bedrock or to a cemented

pan, a high water table, flooding, large stones, and slope affect the ease of

excavating and grading. Soil strength (as inferred from the engineering classification

of the soil), shrink-swell potential, frost action potential, and depth to a high water

table affect the traffic-supporting capacity.

Lawns and landscaping require soils on which turf and ornamental trees and

shrubs can be established and maintained. The ratings are based on soil properties,

site features, and observed performance of the soils. Soil reaction, a high water table,
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

47

depth to bedrock or to a cemented pan, and the available water capacity in the upper

40 inches affect plant growth. Flooding, wetness, slope, stoniness, and the amount of

sand, clay, or organic matter in the surface layer affect trafficability after vegetation is

established.

Sanitary Facilities

Table 12 shows the degree and kind of soil limitations that affect septic tank

absorption fields, sewage lagoons, and sanitary landfills. The limitations are

considered slight if soil properties and site features are generally favorable for the

indicated use and limitations are minor and easily overcome; moderate if soil

properties or site features are not favorable for the indicated use and special

planning, design, or maintenance is needed to overcome or minimize the limitations;

and severe if soil properties or site features are so unfavorable or so difficult to

overcome that special design, significant increases in construction costs, and

possibly increased maintenance are required.

The table also shows the suitability of the soils for use as daily cover for landfill. A

rating of good indicates that soil properties and site features are favorable for the use

and good performance and low maintenance can be expected; fair indicates that soil

properties and site features are moderately favorable for the use and one or more soil

properties or site features make the soil less desirable than the soils rated good; and

poor indicates that one or more soil properties or site features are unfavorable for the

use and overcoming the unfavorable properties requires special design, extra

maintenance, or costly alteration.

Septic tank absorption fields are areas in which effluent from a septic tank is

distributed into the soil through subsurface tiles or perforated pipe. Only that part of

the soil between depths of 24 and 72 inches is evaluated. The ratings are based on

soil properties, site features, and observed performance of the soils. Permeability, a

high water table, depth to bedrock or to a cemented pan, and flooding affect

absorption of the effluent. Large stones and bedrock or a cemented pan interfere with

installation.

Unsatisfactory performance of septic tank absorption fields, including excessively

slow absorption of effluent, surfacing of effluent, and hillside seepage, can affect

public health. Ground water can be polluted if highly permeable sand and gravel or

fractured bedrock is less than 4 feet below the base of the absorption field, if slope is

excessive, or if the water table is near the surface. There must be unsaturated soil

material beneath the absorption field to filter the effluent effectively. Many local

ordinances require that this material be of a certain thickness.

Sewage lagoons are shallow ponds constructed to hold sewage while aerobic

bacteria decompose the solid and liquid wastes. Lagoons should have a nearly level

floor surrounded by cut slopes or embankments of compacted soil. Lagoons generally

are designed to hold the sewage within a depth of 2 to 5 feet. Nearly impervious soil

material for the lagoon floor and sides is required to minimize seepage and

contamination of ground water.

The table gives ratings for the natural soil that makes up the lagoon floor. The

surface layer and, generally, 1 or 2 feet of soil material below the surface layer are

excavated to provide material for the embankments. The ratings are based on soil

properties, site features, and observed performance of the soils. Considered in the

ratings are slope, permeability, a high water table, depth to bedrock or to a cemented

pan, flooding, large stones, and content of organic matter.

Excessive seepage resulting from rapid permeability in the soil or a water table

that is high enough to raise the level of sewage in the lagoon causes a lagoon to

function unsatisfactorily. Pollution results if seepage is excessive or if floodwater

overtops the lagoon. A high content of organic matter is detrimental to proper

functioning of the lagoon because it inhibits aerobic activity. Slope, bedrock, and
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

48

cemented pans can cause construction problems, and large stones can hinder

compaction of the lagoon floor.

Sanitary landfills are areas where solid waste is disposed of by burying it in soil.

There are two types of landfill—trench and area. In a trench landfill, the waste is

placed in a trench. It is spread, compacted, and covered daily with a thin layer of soil

excavated at the site. In an area landfill, the waste is placed in successive layers on

the surface of the soil. The waste is spread, compacted, and covered daily with a thin

layer of soil from a source away from the site.

Both types of landfill must be able to bear heavy vehicular traffic. Both types

involve a risk of ground-water pollution. Ease of excavation and revegetation should

be considered.

The ratings in the table are based on soil properties, site features, and observed

performance of the soils. Permeability, depth to bedrock or to a cemented pan, a high

water table, slope, and flooding affect both types of landfill. Texture, stones and

boulders, highly organic layers, soil reaction, and content of salts and sodium affect

trench landfills. Unless otherwise stated, the ratings apply only to that part of the soil

within a depth of about 6 feet. For deeper trenches, a limitation rated slight or

moderate may not be valid. Onsite investigation is needed.

Daily cover for landfill is the soil material that is used to cover compacted solid

waste in an area sanitary landfill. The soil material is obtained offsite, transported to

the landfill, and spread over the waste.

Soil texture, wetness, coarse fragments, and slope affect the ease of removing and

spreading the material during wet and dry periods. Loamy or silty soils that are free of

large stones or excess gravel are the best cover for a landfill. Clayey soils are sticky

or cloddy and are difficult to spread; sandy soils are subject to wind erosion.

After soil material has been removed, the soil material remaining in the borrow

area must be thick enough over bedrock, a cemented pan, or the water table to

permit revegetation. The soil material used as the final cover for a landfill should be

suitable for plants. The surface layer generally has the best workability, more organic

matter, and the best potential for plants. Material from the surface layer should be

stockpiled for use as the final cover.

Construction Materials

Table 13 gives information about the soils as a source of roadfill, sand, gravel, and

topsoil. The soils are rated good, fair, or poor as a source of roadfill and topsoil. They

are rated as a probable or improbable source of sand and gravel. The ratings are

based on soil properties and site features that affect the removal of the soil and its

use as construction material. Normal compaction, minor processing, and other

standard construction practices are assumed. Each soil is evaluated to a depth of 5

or 6 feet.

Roadfill is soil material that is excavated in one place and used in road

embankments in another place. In this table, the soils are rated as a source of roadfill

for low embankments, generally less than 6 feet high and less exacting in design than

higher embankments.

The ratings are for the soil material below the surface layer to a depth of 5 or

6 feet. It is assumed that soil layers will be mixed during excavating and spreading.

Many soils have layers of contrasting suitability within their profile. The table showing

engineering index properties provides detailed information about each soil layer. This

information can help to determine the suitability of each layer for use as roadfill. The

performance of soil after it is stabilized with lime or cement is not considered in the

ratings.

The ratings are based on soil properties, site features, and observed performance

of the soils. The thickness of suitable material is a major consideration. The ease of

excavation is affected by large stones, a high water table, and slope. How well the soil
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

49

performs in place after it has been compacted and drained is determined by its

strength (as inferred from the engineering classification of the soil) and shrink-swell

potential.

Soils rated good contain significant amounts of sand or gravel or both. They have

at least 5 feet of suitable material, a low shrink-swell potential, few cobbles and

stones, and slopes of 15 percent or less. Depth to the water table is more than 3 feet.

Soils rated fair are more than 35 percent silt- and clay-sized particles and have a

plasticity index of less than 10. They have a moderate shrink-swell potential, slopes of

15 to 25 percent, or many stones. Depth to the water table is 1 to 3 feet. Soils rated

poor have a plasticity index of more than 10, a high shrink-swell potential, many

stones, or slopes of more than 25 percent. They are wet and have a water table at a

depth of less than 1 foot. They may have layers of suitable material, but the material is

less than 3 feet thick.

Sand and gravel are natural aggregates suitable for commercial use with a

minimum of processing. They are used in many kinds of construction. Specifications

for each use vary widely. In the table, only the probability of finding material in suitable

quantity is evaluated. The suitability of the material for specific purposes is not

evaluated, nor are factors that affect excavation of the material.

The properties used to evaluate the soil as a source of sand or gravel are

gradation of grain sizes (as indicated by the engineering classification of the soil), the

thickness of suitable material, and the content of rock fragments. Kinds of rock,

acidity, and stratification are given in the soil series descriptions. Gradation of grain

sizes is given in the table on engineering index properties.

A soil rated as a probable source has a layer of clean sand or gravel or a layer of

sand or gravel that is up to 12 percent silty fines. This material must be at least 3 feet

thick and less than 50 percent, by weight, large stones. All other soils are rated as an

improbable source. Coarse fragments of soft bedrock, such as shale and siltstone,

are not considered to be sand and gravel.

Topsoil is used to cover an area so that vegetation can be established and

maintained. The upper 40 inches of a soil is evaluated for use as topsoil. Also

evaluated is the reclamation potential of the borrow area.

Plant growth is affected by toxic material and by such properties as soil reaction,

available water capacity, and fertility. The ease of excavating, loading, and spreading

is affected by rock fragments, slope, a water table, soil texture, and thickness of

suitable material. Reclamation of the borrow area is affected by slope, a water table,

rock fragments, bedrock, and toxic material.

Soils rated good have friable, loamy material to a depth of at least 40 inches. They

are free of stones and cobbles, have little or no gravel, and have slopes of less than

8 percent. They are low in content of soluble salts, are naturally fertile or respond well

to fertilizer, and are not so wet that excavation is difficult.

Soils rated fair are sandy soils, loamy soils that have a relatively high content of

clay, soils that have only 20 to 40 inches of suitable material, soils that have an

appreciable amount of gravel, stones, or soluble salts, or soils that have slopes of 8 to

15 percent. The soils are not so wet that excavation is difficult.

Soils rated poor are very sandy or clayey, have less than 20 inches of suitable

material, have a large amount of gravel, stones, or soluble salts, have slopes of more

than 15 percent, or have a seasonal high water table at or near the surface.

The surface layer of most soils is generally preferred for topsoil because of its

organic matter content. Organic matter greatly increases the absorption and retention

of moisture and nutrients for plant growth.

Water Management

Table 14 gives information on the soil properties and site features that affect water

management. The degree and kind of soil limitations are given for pond reservoir
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

50

areas; embankments, dikes, and levees; and aquifer-fed excavated ponds. The

limitations are considered slight if soil properties and site features are generally

favorable for the indicated use and limitations are minor and are easily overcome;

moderate if soil properties or site features are not favorable for the indicated use and

special planning, design, or maintenance is needed to overcome or minimize the

limitations; and severe if soil properties or site features are so unfavorable or so

difficult to overcome that special design, significant increase in construction costs,

and possibly increased maintenance are required.

This table also gives for each soil the restrictive features that affect drainage,

irrigation, terraces and diversions, and grassed waterways.

Pond reservoir areas hold water behind a dam or embankment. Soils best suited to

this use have low seepage potential in the upper 60 inches. The seepage potential is

determined by the permeability of the soil and the depth to fractured bedrock or other

permeable material. Excessive slope can affect the storage capacity of the reservoir

area.

Embankments, dikes, and levees are raised structures of soil material, generally

less than 20 feet high, constructed to impound water or to protect land against

overflow. In this table, the soils are rated as a source of material for embankment fill.

The ratings apply to the soil material below the surface layer to a depth of about

5 feet. It is assumed that soil layers will be uniformly mixed and compacted during

construction.

The ratings do not indicate the ability of the natural soil to support an embankment.

Soil properties to a depth even greater than the height of the embankment can affect

performance and safety of the embankment. Generally, deeper onsite investigation is

needed to determine these properties.

Soil material in embankments must be resistant to seepage, piping, and erosion

and have favorable compaction characteristics. Unfavorable features include less than

5 feet of suitable material and a high content of stones or boulders, organic matter, or

salts or sodium. A high water table affects the amount of usable material. It also

affects trafficability.

Aquifer-fed excavated ponds are pits or dugouts that extend to a ground-water

aquifer or to a depth below a permanent water table. Excluded are ponds that are fed

only by surface runoff and embankment ponds that impound water 3 feet or more

above the original surface. Excavated ponds are affected by depth to a permanent

water table, permeability of the aquifer, and quality of the water as inferred from the

salinity of the soil. Depth to bedrock and the content of large stones affect the ease of

excavation.

Drainage is the removal of excess surface and subsurface water from the soil. How

easily and effectively the soil is drained depends on the depth to bedrock, to a

cemented pan, or to other layers that affect the rate of water movement; permeability;

depth to a high water table or depth of standing water if the soil is subject to ponding;

slope; susceptibility to flooding; subsidence of organic layers; and the potential for

frost action. Excavating and grading and the stability of ditchbanks are affected by

depth to bedrock or to a cemented pan, large stones, slope, and the hazard of

cutbanks caving. The productivity of the soil after drainage is adversely affected by

extreme acidity or by toxic substances in the root zone, such as salts, sodium, and

sulfur. Availability of drainage outlets is not considered in the ratings.

Irrigation is the controlled application of water to supplement rainfall and support

plant growth. The design and management of an irrigation system are affected by

depth to the water table, the need for drainage, flooding, available water capacity,

intake rate, permeability, erosion hazard, and slope. The construction of a system is

affected by large stones and depth to bedrock or to a cemented pan. The

performance of a system is affected by the depth of the root zone, the amount of salts

or sodium, and soil reaction.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

51

Terraces and diversions are embankments or a combination of channels and

ridges constructed across a slope to control erosion and conserve moisture by

intercepting runoff. Slope, wetness, large stones, and depth to bedrock or to a

cemented pan affect the construction of terraces and diversions. A restricted rooting

depth, a severe hazard of wind erosion or water erosion, an excessively coarse

texture, and restricted permeability adversely affect maintenance.

Grassed waterways are natural or constructed channels, generally broad and

shallow, that conduct surface water to outlets at a nonerosive velocity. Large stones,

wetness, slope, and depth to bedrock or to a cemented pan affect the construction of

grassed waterways. A hazard of wind erosion, low available water capacity, restricted

rooting depth, toxic substances such as salts and sodium, and restricted permeability

adversely affect the growth and maintenance of the grass after construction.

53

Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

Data relating to soil properties are collected during the course of the soil survey.

The data and the estimates of soil and water features, listed in tables, are explained

on the following pages.

Soil properties are determined by field examination of the soils and by laboratory

index testing of some benchmark soils. Established standard procedures are

followed. During the survey, many shallow borings are made and examined to identify

and classify the soils and to delineate them on the soil maps. Samples are taken from

some typical profiles and tested in the laboratory to determine grain-size distribution,

plasticity, and compaction characteristics.

Estimates of soil properties are based on field examinations, on laboratory tests of

samples from the survey area, and on laboratory tests of samples of similar soils in

nearby areas. Tests verify field observations, verify properties that cannot be

estimated accurately by field observation, and help to characterize key soils.

The estimates of soil properties shown in the tables include the range of grain-size

distribution and Atterberg limits, the engineering classification, and the physical and

chemical properties of the major layers of each soil. Pertinent soil and water features

also are given.

Engineering Index Properties

Table 15 gives estimates of the engineering classification and of the range of index

properties for the major layers of each soil in the survey area. Most soils have layers

of contrasting properties within the upper 5 or 6 feet.

Depth to the upper and lower boundaries of each layer is indicated. The range in

depth and information on other properties of each layer are given for each soil series

under the heading “Soil Series and Their Morphology.”

Texture is given in the standard terms used by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

These terms are defined according to percentages of sand, silt, and clay in the

fraction of the soil that is less than 2 millimeters in diameter. “Loam,” for example, is

soil that is 7 to 27 percent clay, 28 to 50 percent silt, and less than 52 percent sand. If

the content of particles coarser than sand is as much as about 15 percent, an

appropriate modifier is added, for example, “gravelly.” Textural terms are defined in the

Glossary.

Classification of the soils is determined according to the Unified soil classification

system (ASTM 1993) and the system adopted by the American Association of State

Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO 1986).

The Unified system classifies soils according to properties that affect their use as

construction material. Soils are classified according to grain-size distribution of the

fraction less than 3 inches in diameter and according to plasticity index, liquid limit,

and organic matter content. Sandy and gravelly soils are identified as GW, GP, GM,

GC, SW, SP, SM, and SC; silty and clayey soils as ML, CL, OL, MH, CH, and OH; and

highly organic soils as PT. Soils exhibiting engineering properties of two groups can

have a dual classification, for example, CL-ML.

Soil Properties
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

54

The AASHTO system classifies soils according to those properties that affect

roadway construction and maintenance. In this system, the fraction of a mineral soil

that is less than 3 inches in diameter is classified in one of seven groups from A-1

through A-7 on the basis of grain-size distribution, liquid limit, and plasticity index.

Soils in group A-1 are coarse grained and low in content of fines (silt and clay). At the

other extreme, soils in group A-7 are fine grained. Highly organic soils are classified

in group A-8 on the basis of visual inspection.

If laboratory data are available, the A-1, A-2, and A-7 groups are further classified

as A-1-a, A-1-b, A-2-4, A-2-5, A-2-6, A-2-7, A-7-5, or A-7-6. As an additional

refinement, the suitability of a soil as subgrade material can be indicated by a group

index number. Group index numbers range from 0 for the best subgrade material to

20 or higher for the poorest.

Rock fragments larger than 10 inches in diameter and 3 to 10 inches in diameter

are indicated as a percentage of the total soil on a dry-weight basis. The percentages

are estimates determined mainly by converting volume percentage in the field to

weight percentage.

Percentage (of soil particles) passing designated sieves is the percentage of the

soil fraction less than 3 inches in diameter based on an ovendry weight. The sieves,

numbers 4, 10, 40, and 200 (USA Standard Series), have openings of 4.76, 2.00,

0.420, and 0.074 millimeters, respectively. Estimates are based on laboratory tests of

soils sampled in the survey area and in nearby areas and on estimates made in the

field.

Liquid limit and plasticity index (Atterberg limits) indicate the plasticity

characteristics of a soil. The estimates are based on test data from the survey area or

from nearby areas and on field examination.

The estimates of grain-size distribution, liquid limit, and plasticity index are

generally rounded to the nearest 5 percent. Thus, if the ranges of gradation and

Atterberg limits extend a marginal amount (1 or 2 percentage points) across

classification boundaries, the classification in the marginal zone is omitted in the

table.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Table 16 shows estimates of some characteristics and features that affect soil

behavior. These estimates are given for the major layers of each soil in the survey

area. The estimates are based on field observations and on test data for these and

similar soils.

Depth to the upper and lower boundaries of each layer is indicated.

Clay as a soil separate consists of mineral soil particles that are less than

0.002 millimeter in diameter. In this table, the estimated clay content of each major

soil layer is given as a percentage, by weight, of the soil material that is less than

2 millimeters in diameter.

The amount and kind of clay greatly affect the fertility and physical condition of the

soil. They determine the ability of the soil to adsorb cations and to retain moisture.

They influence shrink-swell potential, permeability, plasticity, the ease of soil

dispersion, and other soil properties. The amount and kind of clay in a soil also affect

tillage and earthmoving operations.

Moist bulk density is the weight of soil (ovendry) per unit volume. Volume is

measured when the soil is at field moisture capacity, that is, the moisture content at

1

/3-bar moisture tension. Weight is determined after drying the soil at 105 degrees C.

In this table, the estimated moist bulk density of each major soil horizon is expressed

in grams per cubic centimeter of soil material that is less than 2 millimeters in

diameter. Bulk density data are used to compute shrink-swell potential, available

water capacity, total pore space, and other soil properties. The moist bulk density of a
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

55

soil indicates the pore space available for water and roots. A bulk density of more

than 1.6 can restrict water storage and root penetration. Moist bulk density is

influenced by texture, kind of clay, content of organic matter, and soil structure.

Permeability (Ksat ) refers to the ability of a soil to transmit water or air. The term

“permeability,” as used in soil surveys, indicates saturated hydraulic conductivity

(Ksat ). The estimates in the table indicate the rate of water movement, in inches per

hour, when the soil is saturated. They are based on soil characteristics observed in

the field, particularly structure, porosity, and texture. Permeability is considered in the

design of soil drainage systems and septic tank absorption fields.

Available water capacity refers to the quantity of water that the soil is capable of

storing for use by plants. The capacity for water storage is given in inches of water per

inch of soil for each soil layer. The capacity varies, depending on soil properties that

affect retention of water. The most important properties are the content of organic

matter, soil texture, bulk density, and soil structure. Available water capacity is an

important factor in the choice of plants or crops to be grown. Available water capacity

is not an estimate of the quantity of water actually available to plants at any given

time.

Linear extensibility refers to the change in length of an unconfined clod as moisture

content is decreased from a moist to a dry state. It is an expression of the volume

change between the water content of the clod at 1/3- or 1/10-bar tension (33kPa or

10kPa tension) and oven dryness. The volume change is reported in the table as

percent change for the whole soil. Volume change is influenced by the amount and

type of clay minerals in the soil.

Linear extensibility is used to determine the shrink-swell potential of soils. The

shrink-swell potential is low if the soil has a linear extensibility of less than 3 percent;

moderate if 3 to 6 percent; high if 6 to 9 percent; and very high if more than 9 percent.

If the linear extensibility is more than 3, shrinking and swelling can cause damage to

buildings, roads, and other structures and to plant roots. Special design commonly is

needed.

Organic matter is the plant and animal residue in the soil at various stages of

decomposition. In table 16, the estimated content of organic matter is expressed as a

percentage, by weight, of the soil material that is less than 2 millimeters in diameter.

The content of organic matter in a soil can be maintained by returning crop residue

to the soil. Organic matter has a positive effect on available water capacity, water

infiltration, soil organism activity, and tilth. It is a source of nitrogen and other nutrients

for plants and soil organisms.

Erosion factor K indicates the susceptibility of a soil to sheet and rill erosion by

water. Factor K is one of six factors used in the Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE)

to predict the average annual rate of soil loss by sheet and rill erosion in tons per acre

per year. The estimates are based primarily on percentage of silt, sand, and organic

matter (up to 4 percent) and on soil structure and permeability. Values of K range

from 0.02 to 0.64. Other factors being equal, the higher the value, the more

susceptible the soil is to sheet and rill erosion by water.

Erosion factor Kf indicates the erodibility of the fine-earth fraction, or the material

less than 2 millimeters in size.

Erosion factor T is an estimate of the maximum average annual rate of soil erosion

by wind or water that can occur without affecting crop productivity over a sustained

period. The rate is in tons per acre per year.

Cation-exchange capacity is the total amount of extractable bases that can be held

by the soil, expressed in terms of milliquivalents per 100 grams of soil at neutrality

(pH 7.0) or at some other stated pH value. Soils having a low cation-exchange

capacity hold fewer cations and may require more frequent applications of fertilizer

than soils having a high cation-exchange capacity. The ability to retain cations

reduces the hazard of ground-water pollution.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

56

Effective cation-exchange capacity refers to the sum of extractable bases plus

aluminum expressed in terms of milliquivalents per 100 grams of soil. It is determined

for soils that have pH of less than 5.5.

Soil reaction is a measure of acidity or alkalinity. The pH of each soil horizon is

based on many field tests. For many soils, values have been verified by laboratory

analyses. Soil reaction is important in selecting crops and other plants, in evaluating

soil amendments for fertility and stabilization, and in determining the risk of corrosion.

Soil Features

Table 17 gives estimates of various soil features. The estimates are used in land

use planning that involves engineering considerations.

A restrictive layer is a nearly continuous layer that has one or more physical,

chemical, or thermal properties that significantly impede the movement of water and

air through the soil or that restrict roots or otherwise provide an unfavorable root

environment. Examples are bedrock, cemented layers, dense layers, and frozen

layers. The table indicates the hardness and thickness of the restrictive layer, both of

which significantly affect the ease of excavation. Depth to top is the vertical distance

from the soil surface to the upper boundary of the restrictive layer.

Potential for frost action is the likelihood of upward or lateral expansion of the soil

caused by the formation of segregated ice lenses (frost heave) and the subsequent

collapse of the soil and loss of strength on thawing. Frost action occurs when

moisture moves into the freezing zone of the soil. Temperature, texture, density,

permeability, content of organic matter, and depth to the water table are the most

important factors considered in evaluating the potential for frost action. It is assumed

that the soil is not insulated by vegetation or snow and is not artificially drained. Silty

and highly structured, clayey soils that have a high water table in winter are the most

susceptible to frost action. Well drained, very gravelly, or very sandy soils are the

least susceptible. Frost heave and low soil strength during thawing cause damage to

pavements and other rigid structures.

Risk of corrosion pertains to potential soil-induced electrochemical or chemical

action that corrodes or weakens uncoated steel or concrete. The rate of corrosion of

uncoated steel is related to such factors as soil moisture, particle-size distribution,

acidity, and electrical conductivity of the soil. The rate of corrosion of concrete is

based mainly on the sulfate and sodium content, texture, moisture content, and

acidity of the soil. Special site examination and design may be needed if the

combination of factors results in a severe hazard of corrosion. The steel or concrete in

installations that intersect soil boundaries or soil layers is more susceptible to

corrosion than the steel or concrete in installations that are entirely within one kind of

soil or within one soil layer.

For uncoated steel, the risk of corrosion, expressed as low, moderate, or high, is

based on soil drainage class, total acidity, electrical resistivity near field capacity, and

electrical conductivity of the saturation extract.

For concrete, the risk of corrosion also is expressed as low, moderate, or high. It is

based on soil texture, acidity, and amount of sulfates in the saturation extract.

Water Features

Table 18 gives estimates of various water features. The estimates are used in land

use planning that involves engineering considerations.

Hydrologic soil groups are based on estimates of runoff potential. Soils are

assigned to one of four groups according to the rate of water infiltration when the soils
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

57

are not protected by vegetation, are thoroughly wet, and receive precipitation from

long-duration storms.

The four hydrologic soil groups are:

Group A. Soils having a high infiltration rate (low runoff potential) when

thoroughly wet. These consist mainly of deep, well drained to excessively drained

sands or gravelly sands. These soils have a high rate of water transmission.

Group B. Soils having a moderate infiltration rate when thoroughly wet. These

consist chiefly of moderately deep or deep, moderately well drained or well drained

soils that have moderately fine texture to moderately coarse texture. These soils have

a moderate rate of water transmission.

Group C. Soils having a slow infiltration rate when thoroughly wet. These consist

chiefly of soils having a layer that impedes the downward movement of water or soils

of moderately fine texture or fine texture. These soils have a slow rate of water

transmission.

Group D. Soils having a very slow infiltration rate (high runoff potential) when

thoroughly wet. These consist chiefly of clays that have a high shrink-swell potential,

soils that have a high water table, soils that have a claypan or clay layer at or near the

surface, and soils that are shallow over nearly impervious material. These soils have

a very slow rate of water transmission.

Surface runoff refers to the loss of water from an area by flow over the land

surface. Surface runoff classes are based on slope, climate, and vegetative cover. It

is assumed that the surface of the soil is bare and that the retention of surface water

resulting from irregularities in the ground surface is minimal. The classes are

negligible, very low, low, medium, high, and very high.

The months in the table indicate the portion of the year in which the feature is most

likely to be a concern.

Water table refers to a saturated zone in the soil. The table indicates, by month,

depth to the top (upper limit) and base (lower limit) of the saturated zone in most

years. Estimates of the upper and lower limits are based mainly on observations of

the water table at selected sites and on evidence of a saturated zone, namely grayish

colors or mottles (redoximorphic features) in the soil. A saturated zone that lasts for

less than a month is not considered a water table.

Flooding is the temporary inundation of an area caused by overflowing streams, by

runoff from adjacent slopes, or by tides. Water standing for short periods after rainfall

or snowmelt is not considered flooding, and water standing in swamps and marshes

is considered ponding rather than flooding.

Duration and frequency are estimated. Duration is expressed as extremely brief if

0.1 hour to 4 hours, very brief if 4 hours to 2 days, brief if 2 to 7 days, long if 7 to

30 days, and very long if more than 30 days. Frequency is expressed as none, very

rare, rare, occasional, frequent, and very frequent. None means that flooding is not

probable; very rare that it is very unlikely but possible under extremely unusual

weather conditions (the chance of flooding is less than 1 percent in any year); rare

that it is unlikely but possible under unusual weather conditions (the chance of

flooding is 1 to 5 percent in any year); occasional that it occurs infrequently under

normal weather conditions (the chance of flooding is 5 to 50 percent in any year);

frequent that it is likely to occur often under normal weather conditions (the chance of

flooding is more than 50 percent in any year but is less than 50 percent in all months

in any year); and very frequent that it is likely to occur very often under normal

weather conditions (the chance of flooding is more than 50 percent in all months of

any year).

The information is based on evidence in the soil profile, namely thin strata of

gravel, sand, silt, or clay deposited by floodwater; irregular decrease in organic matter

content with increasing depth; and little or no horizon development.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

58

Also considered are local information about the extent and levels of flooding and

the relation of each soil on the landscape to historic floods. Information on the extent

of flooding based on soil data is less specific than that provided by detailed

engineering surveys that delineate flood-prone areas at specific flood frequency

levels.
59

Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

The system of soil classification used by the National Cooperative Soil Survey has

six categories (Soil Survey Staff 1975, 1992). Beginning with the broadest, these

categories are the order, suborder, great group, subgroup, family, and series.

Classification is based on soil properties observed in the field or inferred from those

observations or from laboratory measurements. Table 19 shows the classification of

the soils in the survey area. The categories are defined in the following paragraphs.

ORDER. Eleven soil orders are recognized. The differences among orders reflect

the dominant soil-forming processes and the degree of soil formation. Each order is

identified by a word ending in sol. An example is Alfisol.

SUBORDER. Each order is divided into suborders primarily on the basis of

properties that influence soil genesis and are important to plant growth or properties

that reflect the most important variables within the orders. The last syllable in the

name of a suborder indicates the order. An example is Udalf (Ud, meaning humid,

plus alf, from Alfisol).

GREAT GROUP. Each suborder is divided into great groups on the basis of close

similarities in kind, arrangement, and degree of development of pedogenic horizons;

soil moisture and temperature regimes; type of saturation; and base status. Each

great group is identified by the name of a suborder and by a prefix that indicates a

property of the soil. An example is Hapludalfs (Hapl, meaning minimal horizonation,

plus udalf, the suborder of the Alfisols that has a udic moisture regime).

SUBGROUP. Each great group has a typic subgroup. Other subgroups are

intergrades or extragrades. The typic subgroup is the central concept of the great

group; it is not necessarily the most extensive. Intergrades are transitions to other

orders, suborders, or great groups. Extragrades have some properties that are not

representative of the great group but do not indicate transitions to any other

taxonomic class. Each subgroup is identified by one or more adjectives preceding the

name of the great group. The adjective Typic identifies the subgroup that typifies the

great group. An example is Typic Hapludalfs.

FAMILY. Families are established within a subgroup on the basis of physical and

chemical properties and other characteristics that affect management. Generally, the

properties are those of horizons below plow depth where there is much biological

activity. Among the properties and characteristics considered are particle size,

mineral content, soil temperature regime, soil depth, and reaction. A family name

consists of the name of a subgroup preceded by terms that indicate soil properties.

An example is fine, mixed, active, mesic Typic Hapludalfs.

SERIES. The series consists of soils within a family that have horizons similar in

color, texture, structure, reaction, consistence, mineral and chemical composition,

and arrangement in the profile.

Soil Series and Their Morphology

In this section, each soil series recognized in the survey area is described.

Characteristics of the soil and the material in which it formed are identified for each

series. A pedon, a small three-dimensional area of soil, that is typical of the series in

Classification of the Soils
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

60

the survey area is described. The detailed description of each soil horizon follows

standards in the “Soil Survey Manual” (Soil Survey Division Staff 1993). Many of the

technical terms used in the descriptions are defined in “Soil Taxonomy” (Soil Survey

Staff 1975) and in “Keys to Soil Taxonomy” (Soil Survey Staff 1992). Unless otherwise

indicated, colors in the descriptions are for moist soil. Following the pedon description

is the range of important characteristics of the soils in the series.

The map units of each soil series are described in the section “Detailed Soil Map

Units.”

Allegheny Series

The Allegheny series consists of very deep, well drained soils that formed in

alluvial deposits washed from acid soils on uplands. Allegheny soils are on terraces,

mainly along the Elk River and Buffalo Creek. Slope ranges from 3 to 8 percent.

Allegheny soils are on the landscape with the well drained Chavies, Craigsville,

Laidig, and Pope soils. Allegheny soils contain more clay in the B horizon than

Chavies or Pope soils, contain fewer rock fragments than Craigsville soils, and do not

have a fragipan like that of Laidig soils.

Typical pedon of Allegheny loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes, in a meadow; in the

community of Cressmont; about 2,500 feet south of the confluence of The Gulf Creek

with Buffalo Creek and about 2,000 feet northwest of the confluence of Dog Run with

Buffalo Creek; USGS Swandale topographic quadrangle; lat. 38 degrees 27 minutes

32 seconds N. and long. 80 degrees 59 minutes 19 seconds W.

Ap—0 to 9 inches; brown (10YR 4/3) loam; moderate medium granular structure;

friable; many fine and medium roots; slightly acid; abrupt smooth boundary.

Bt1—9 to 27 inches; yellowish brown (10YR 5/6) clay loam; moderate medium

subangular blocky structure; friable; common distinct clay films on faces of peds;

many fine and medium roots; strongly acid; clear wavy boundary.

Bt2—27 to 36 inches; yellowish brown (10YR 5/6) loam; moderate medium and

coarse subangular blocky structure; friable; common distinct clay films on faces of

peds; many fine roots; strongly acid; clear wavy boundary.

Bt3—36 to 50 inches; yellowish brown (10YR 5/6) sandy clay loam with few medium

black (10YR 2/1) coatings of magnesium; moderate coarse subangular blocky

structure; friable; few faint clay films on faces of peds; few fine roots; strongly acid;

clear wavy boundary.

C—50 to 65 inches; strong brown (7.5YR 5/6) sandy loam; massive; friable; strongly

acid.

The thickness of the solum ranges from 30 to 50 inches. The depth to bedrock is

more than 60 inches. The content of gravel and cobbles ranges from 0 to 15 percent,

by volume, in the solum and from 0 to 35 percent, by volume, in the C horizon. In

unlimed areas reaction is strongly acid or very strongly acid.

The Ap horizon has hue of 7.5YR or 10YR, value of 4, and chroma of 2 to 4. The

texture of the fine-earth material is loam. The Ap horizon has weak or moderate, fine

or medium granular structure and very friable or friable consistence.

The Bt horizon has hue of 7.5YR or 10YR, value of 4 or 5, and chroma of 6 to 8.

The texture of the fine-earth material is loam, clay loam, or sandy clay loam. The

Bt horizon has moderate medium or coarse subangular blocky structure and friable

consistence.

The C horizon has hue of 7.5YR or 10YR, value of 5, and chroma of 6 to 8. The

texture of the fine-earth material is loam, clay loam, sandy clay loam, or sandy loam.

The C horizon has friable consistence.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

61

Cedarcreek Series

The Cedarcreek series consists of very deep, well drained soils that formed in

regolith from the surface mining of coal. The regolith is a mixture of partially

weathered bedrock fragments and partially weathered fine-earth material and is in

areas that have been disturbed by surface mine operations. Cedarcreek soils are on

side slopes, ridgetops, and footslopes that have been surface mined for coal. Stones

cover 1 to 3 percent of the surface. Slope ranges from 15 to 70 percent.

Cedarcreek soils are on the landscape with the well drained Fairpoint, Gilpin,

Itmann, Laidig, Lily, and Pineville soils. Cedarcreek soils have more rock fragments in

the control section than Gilpin, Laidig, Lily, and Pineville soils; are more acid than

Fairpoint soils; and do not have a predominance of carbolithic rock fragments like

Itmann soils.

Typical pedon of Cedarcreek very channery loam, very steep, very stony; about

1 mile up Williams Hollow from West Virginia Highway 16 at Bentree; USGS

Bentree topographic quadrangle; lat. 38 degrees 17 minutes 11 seconds N. and

long. 81 degrees 12 minutes 25 seconds W.

Oi—0 to 1 inch; slightly decomposed leaf litter.

A—1 to 8 inches; very dark grayish brown (10YR 3/2) very channery loam, brown

(10YR 5/3) dry; weak medium granular structure; very friable; many very fine to

coarse roots; 40 percent channers (30 percent shale and mudstone, 60 percent

sandstone, 10 percent carbolithic material); strongly acid; clear wavy boundary.

AC—8 to 10 inches; mixed brown (10YR 4/3 and 5/3) very channery loam; weak fine

and medium subangular blocky structure; friable; common fine coarse roots;

50 percent channers (30 percent shale and mudstone, 60 percent sandstone,

10 percent carbolithic material); very strongly acid; gradual wavy boundary.

C1—10 to 24 inches; brown (10YR 5/3) very channery loam with strong brown

(7.5YR 5/8) and gray (7.5YR 5/1) lithochromic mottles; massive; friable; common

fine to coarse roots; 50 percent channers (25 percent shale and mudstone,

60 percent sandstone, 15 percent carbolithic material); very strongly acid.

C2—24 to 40 inches; dark yellowish brown (10YR 4/4) very channery loam with

strong brown (7.5YR 5/8) and gray (7.5YR 5/1) lithochromic mottles; massive;

friable; few fine and medium roots; 50 percent channers (25 percent shale and

mudstone, 50 percent sandstone, 25 percent carbolithic material); very strongly

acid.

C3—40 to 65 inches; mixed dark yellowish brown (10YR 4/4) and black (10YR 2/1)

extremely channery loam; massive; friable; few fine and medium roots; 70 percent

channers (25 percent shale and mudstone, 40 percent sandstone, 35 percent

carbolithic material); extremely acid.

The depth to bedrock is more than 60 inches. The content of rock fragments

ranges from 15 to 60 percent, by volume, in the A and AC horizons and from 35 to

80 percent, by volume, in the C horizon. The rock fragments are mainly mudstone,

sandstone, and shale with smaller amounts of carbolithic material. The percentage of

each is less than 65 percent of the total content of rock fragments in the control

section. In unlimed areas reaction is extremely acid to strongly acid.

The A horizon has hue of 10YR or 7.5YR, value of 2 to 5, and chroma of 1 to 6.

The texture of the fine-earth material is loam or silt loam. The A horizon has weak or

moderate, fine or medium granular structure and friable or very friable consistence.

The C horizon has hue of 10YR or 7.5YR, value of 2 to 5, and chroma of 1 to 6.

The texture of the fine-earth material is loam, sandy loam, or silt loam. The C horizon

is massive and has firm, friable, or very friable consistence.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

62

Chavies Series

The Chavies series consists of very deep, well drained soils that formed in alluvial

deposits washed from acid soils on uplands. Chavies soils are on high flood plains,

mostly along Buffalo and Otter Creeks, Lilly Fork, and Elk River. In some areas along

Elk River, these soils are protected from 100-year floods by Sutton Dam. Elsewhere

in the county, they are subject to rare flooding. Slope ranges from 0 to 3 percent.

Chavies soils are on the landscape with the well drained Allegheny, Craigsville,

Pope, and Sensabaugh soils. Chavies soils have more clay in the B horizon than

Craigsville and Pope soils, have less clay in the B horizon than Allegheny soils, and

do not have the gravelly layers typical of Sensabaugh soils.

Typical pedon of Chavies fine sandy loam, in a meadow; along Otter Creek;

about 2,000 feet northeast of the confluence of Otter Creek with Elk River and

1,200 feet southeast of the confluence of Laurel Run with Otter Creek; USGS

Ivydale topographic quadrangle; lat. 38 degrees 32 minutes 18 seconds N. and

long. 82 degrees 01 minute 44 seconds W.

Ap—0 to 9 inches; brown (10YR 4/3) fine sandy loam; moderate fine and medium

granular structure; friable; many fine and medium roots; neutral; abrupt smooth

boundary.

Bt1—9 to 18 inches; brown (7.5YR 4/4) loam; moderate medium subangular blocky

structure; friable; common distinct clay films on faces of peds; many fine and

medium roots; moderately acid; clear wavy boundary.

Bt2—18 to 40 inches; strong brown (7.5YR 4/6) fine sandy loam; moderate medium

subangular blocky structure; friable; common distinct clay films on faces of peds;

many fine and medium roots; very strongly acid; clear wavy boundary.

Bt3—40 to 57 inches; strong brown (7.5YR 4/6) loam; moderate medium subangular

blocky structure; friable; few distinct clay films on faces of peds; few fine and

medium roots; very strongly acid; clear wavy boundary.

C—57 to 65 inches; strong brown (7.5YR 5/6) loam; massive; friable; very strongly

acid.

The thickness of the solum ranges from 30 to 60 inches. The depth to bedrock is

more than 60 inches. The content of rock fragments ranges from 0 to 10 percent, by

volume, in individual horizons of the solum and from 0 to 20 percent, by volume, in

the C horizon. In unlimed areas reaction is very strongly acid to slightly acid.

The Ap horizon has hue of 10YR, value of 3 or 4, and chroma of 2 to 4. The texture

of the fine-earth material is fine sandy loam. The Ap horizon has weak or moderate,

fine or medium granular structure and very friable or friable consistence.

The Bt horizon has hue of 10YR or 7.5YR, value of 4 or 5, and chroma of 4 to 6.

The texture of the fine-earth material is fine sandy loam or loam. The Bt horizon has

moderate fine or medium subangular blocky structure and friable consistence.

The C horizon has hue of 10YR or 7.5YR, value of 4 or 5, and chroma of 4 to 6.

The texture of the fine-earth material is fine sandy loam, sandy loam, or loam. The

C horizon has friable or very friable consistence.

Craigsville Series

The Craigsville series consists of very deep, well drained soils that formed in

alluvial material washed from acid soils on uplands. Craigsville soils are on flood

plains and on alluvial fans at the mouth of hollows, mostly on Lilly Fork and Buffalo,

Leatherwood, Middle, Sycamore, Porter, and Laurel Creeks in Clay County. Slope

ranges from 0 to 3 percent.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

63

Craigsville soils are on the landscape with the well drained Allegheny, Chavies,

Pope, and Sensabaugh soils. Craigsville soils have more rock fragments in the B and

C horizons than the other soils.

Typical pedon of Craigsville gravelly sandy loam, in a wooded area of PopeCraigsville complex; at the confluence of Frank Branch with Lilly Fork; USGS Clay

topographic quadrangle; lat. 38 degrees 23 minutes 51 seconds N. and

long. 81 degrees 01 minute 13 seconds W.

Oi—0 to 2 inches; slightly decomposed hardwood leaf litter.

A—2 to 8 inches; dark brown (10YR 3/3) gravelly sandy loam, brown (10YR 5/3) dry;

weak fine granular structure; very friable; many fine, medium, and coarse roots;

15 percent rock fragments; very strongly acid; abrupt smooth boundary.

Bw1—8 to 29 inches; dark yellowish brown (10YR 4/4) extremely gravelly sandy

loam; weak fine subangular blocky structure; very friable; few fine, medium, and

coarse roots; 65 percent rock fragments; very strongly acid; clear wavy boundary.

Bw2—29 to 37 inches; dark yellowish brown (10YR 4/4) very gravelly sandy loam;

weak medium and coarse subangular blocky structure; very friable; common fine,

medium, and coarse roots; 50 percent rock fragments; very strongly acid; clear

wavy boundary.

C—37 to 65 inches; dark yellowish brown (10YR 4/4) extremely gravelly loamy sand;

massive; very friable; 70 percent rock fragments; very strongly acid.

The thickness of the solum ranges from 20 to 40 inches. The depth to bedrock is

more than 60 inches. The content of rounded gravel and cobbles ranges from 15 to

35 percent in the A horizon and from 35 to 70 percent in individual horizons of the

B and C horizons. In unlimed areas reaction is very strongly acid or strongly acid.

The A horizon has hue of 10YR, value of 3, and chroma of 2 or 3. The texture of

the fine-earth material is sandy loam. The A horizon has weak fine or medium

granular structure and very friable consistence.

The Bw horizon has hue of 10YR, value of 4 or 5, and chroma of 4 or 6. The

texture of the fine-earth material is sandy loam or loam. The Bw horizon has weak

fine, medium, and coarse subangular blocky structure and has friable or very friable

consistence.

The C horizon has hue of 10YR, value of 4, and chroma of 4 or 6. The texture of

the fine-earth material is sandy loam or loamy sand. The C horizon has very friable or

loose consistence.

Fairpoint Series

The Fairpoint series consists of very deep, well drained soils that formed in regolith

from the surface mining of coal. The regolith is a mixture of partially weathered

bedrock fragments and partially weathered fine-earth material and is in areas that

have been disturbed by surface mine operations. Fairpoint soils are on ridgetops, side

slopes, and footslopes. Stones cover 1 to 3 percent of the surface. Slope ranges from

15 to 70 percent.

Fairpoint soils are on the landscape with the well drained Cedarcreek, Gilpin,

Itmann, Laidig, Lily, and Pineville soils. Fairpoint soils are less acid than Cedarcreek

soils and have more rock fragments in the control section than Gilpin, Laidig, Lily, and

Pineville soils.

Typical pedon of Fairpoint channery loam, very steep, very stony; about 3,200 feet

southwest of the confluence of Sinnett Branch with Lilly Fork; USGS Clay topographic

quadrangle; lat. 38 degrees 26 minutes 11 seconds N. and long. 81 degrees

03 minutes 17 seconds W.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

64

A—0 to 4 inches; dark grayish brown (10YR 4/2) channery loam; common medium

distinct yellowish brown (10YR 5/8) and strong brown (7.5YR 5/8) lithochromic

mottles; moderate fine and medium granular structure; friable; many fine and

medium roots; 30 percent channers (60 percent shale and mudstone, 35 percent

sandstone, 5 percent high-carbon material); slightly acid; abrupt wavy boundary.

C1—4 to 17 inches; mixed strong brown (7.5YR 5/6) and dark gray (10YR 4/1)

channery loam; massive; friable; many very fine and fine roots; 45 percent

channers (60 percent shale and mudstone, 35 percent sandstone, 5 percent

high-carbon material); neutral; clear irregular boundary.

C2—17 to 65 inches; brown (10YR 4/3) very channery clay loam; many medium

distinct dark gray (10YR 4/1), black (10YR 2/1), and strong brown (7.5YR 5/8)

lithochromic mottles; massive; friable; few very fine roots; 40 percent channers

(50 percent shale and mudstone, 45 percent sandstone, 5 percent high-carbon

material); moderately acid.

The depth to bedrock is more than 60 inches. The content of rock fragments

ranges from 15 to 60 percent, by volume, in the A horizon and from 35 to 60 percent,

by volume, in the C horizon. The rock fragments are mainly mudstone, sandstone,

and shale with small amounts of coal. The percentage of each is less than 65 percent

of the total rock fragments in the control section. In unlimed areas reaction is

moderately acid to neutral.

The A horizon has hue of 10YR or 7.5YR, value of 4 or 5, and chroma of 2 to 6.

The texture of the fine-earth material is loam. The A horizon has weak or moderate,

fine or medium granular structure and friable or very friable consistence.

The C horizon has hue of 10YR or 7.5YR, value of 4 or 5, and chroma of 1 to 8.

The texture of the fine-earth material is loam or clay loam. The C horizon is massive

and has firm, friable, or very friable consistence.

Gilpin Series

The Gilpin series consists of moderately deep, well drained soils that formed in

acid material weathered from interbedded siltstone, shale, and sandstone. Gilpin soils

are on ridgetops, benches, and side slopes throughout the county. Slope ranges from

8 to 70 percent.

Gilpin soils are on the landscape with the well drained Cedarcreek, Fairpoint,

Itmann, Laidig, Lily, Pineville, and Upshur soils. Gilpin soils have a lower content of

rock fragments in the control section than Cedarcreek, Fairpoint, and Itmann soils;

have less sand in the B and C horizons than Lily soils and are generally underlain by

siltstone or shale bedrock; are not so deep as Pineville and Laidig soils; and have

less clay in the Bt horizon than Upshur soils.

Typical pedon of Gilpin silt loam, 35 to 70 percent slopes, in a wooded area of

Gilpin-Upshur complex, 35 to 70 percent slopes, very stony; near the community of

Floe; about 1,800 feet southwest of Floe; about 500 feet northeast of the Sears

Cemetery; USGS Chloe topographic quadrangle; lat. 38 degrees 37 minutes

30 seconds N. and long. 81 degrees 01 minute 05 seconds W.

Oi—0 to 2 inches; slightly decomposed hardwood leaf litter.

Oe—2 to 3 inches; moderately decomposed hardwood leaf litter.

A—3 to 6 inches; very dark grayish brown (10YR 3/2) silt loam; moderate fine

granular structure; very friable; many fine, medium, and coarse roots; 5 percent

rock fragments; strongly acid; abrupt wavy boundary.

BA—6 to 10 inches; dark yellowish brown (10YR 4/4) silt loam; weak fine and

medium subangular blocky structure; friable; many fine, medium, and coarse

roots; 5 percent rock fragments; very strongly acid; clear wavy boundary.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

65

Bt1—10 to 23 inches; yellowish brown (10YR 5/6) silt loam; moderate medium and

coarse subangular blocky structure; friable; many fine, medium, and coarse roots;

10 percent rock fragments; few distinct clay films on faces of peds and in pores;

very strongly acid; clear wavy boundary.

Bt2—23 to 29 inches; strong brown (7.5YR 5/6) channery silty clay loam; moderate

medium subangular blocky structure; friable; many fine, medium, and coarse

roots; 15 percent rock fragments; common distinct clay films on faces of peds and

in pores; very strongly acid; clear wavy boundary.

C—29 to 37 inches; strong brown (7.5YR 5/6) channery silty clay loam; massive;

friable; few fine, medium, and coarse roots; 30 percent rock fragments; extremely

acid; clear wavy boundary.

R—37 inches; fractured, fine-grained sandstone.

The thickness of the solum ranges from 18 to 36 inches. The depth to bedrock

ranges from 20 to 40 inches. The content of rock fragments ranges from 5 to

25 percent, by volume, in individual horizons of the solum and from 30 to 65 percent,

by volume, in the C horizon. The rock fragments are shale, siltstone, and sandstone.

In unlimed areas reaction is extremely acid to strongly acid.

The A horizon has hue of 10YR, value of 3 or 4, and chroma of 2 or 3. The texture

of the fine-earth material is silt loam. The A horizon has weak or moderate, fine or

medium granular structure and very friable or friable consistence.

The BA horizon has hue of 10YR, value of 4, and chroma of 3 or 4. The texture of

the fine-earth material is silt loam. The BA horizon has weak or moderate, fine or

medium subangular blocky structure and friable or very friable consistence.

The Bt horizon has hue of 7.5YR or 10YR, value of 5, and chroma of 4 or 6.

The texture of the fine-earth material is silt loam, loam, or silty clay loam. The

Bt horizon has moderate fine or medium subangular blocky structure and friable

consistence.

The C horizon has hue of 7.5YR or 10YR, value of 5, and chroma of 4 or 6. The

texture of the fine-earth material is loam, silt loam, or silty clay loam. The C horizon

has friable consistence.

Itmann Series

The Itmann series consists of very deep, somewhat excessively drained soils that

formed in acid waste material from deep-mined coal. Most areas are covered with as

much as 20 inches of natural soil material from the surrounding area. Itmann soils are

on ridgetops, benches, and hillsides, mostly around the Widen area. Slope ranges

from 0 to 80 percent.

Itmann soils are on the landscape with the well drained Cedarcreek, Fairpoint,

Gilpin, Laidig, Lily, and Pineville soils. Itmann soils have more carbolithic rock

fragments throughout the profile than the associated soils.

Typical pedon of Itmann channery clay loam, very steep; in an area where mine

spoil has been covered with topsoil; near Bonetown Gap; about 1,800 feet northeast

of the confluence of Elm Creek with Robinson Fork; USGS Swandale topographic

quadrangle; lat. 38 degrees 26 minutes 18 seconds N. and long. 80 degrees

53 minutes 18 seconds W.

A—0 to 12 inches; yellowish brown (10YR 5/4 and 5/6) channery clay loam; weak

fine and medium subangular blocky structure with very fine and fine granular

structure concentrated around roots; friable; many fine, medium, and coarse

roots; 20 percent rock fragments (60 percent sandstone, 35 percent mudstone,

5 percent carbolith); mildly alkaline; abrupt wavy boundary.

C1—12 to 26 inches; black (10YR 2/1) extremely channery sandy loam; single grain;

loose; common fine and medium roots; 65 percent rock fragments (75 percent
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

66

carbolith, 15 percent sandstone, 10 percent mudstone); very strongly acid;

gradual wavy boundary.

C2—26 to 65 inches; black (10YR 2/1) very channery sandy loam with pockets of

loamy sand; single grain; loose; 50 percent rock fragments (75 percent carbolith,

20 percent mudstone, 5 percent sandstone); very strongly acid.

The depth to bedrock is more than 60 inches. The content of rock fragments

ranges from 15 to 80 percent, by volume, throughout the profile but averages

35 percent or more in the particle-size control section. The fragments are carbolith,

mudstone, and sandstone. Carbolith fragments make up more than 50 percent of the

total content of rock fragments. In unlimed areas reaction is extremely acid to strongly

acid.

The A horizon has hue of 10YR and value and chroma of 4 to 6. The texture of the

fine-earth material is clay loam. The A horizon has weak fine and medium subangular

blocky structure and friable consistence.

The C horizon has hue of 10YR, value of 2, and chroma of 1. The texture of the

fine-earth material is sandy loam. The C horizon has loose or very friable

consistence.

Laidig Series

The Laidig series consists of very deep, well drained soils formed in acid colluvial

material that moved downslope from soils on uplands. Laidig soils are on footslopes,

benches, and mountain side slopes. Slope ranges from 15 to 60 percent.

Laidig soils are on the landscape with the well drained Allegheny, Cedarcreek,

Fairpoint, Gilpin, Itmann, Lily, and Pineville soils. Laidig soils are deeper than Gilpin

and Lily soils; have fewer rock fragments than Cedarcreek, Fairpoint, or Itmann soils;

and have a fragipan, which is not typical of the Allegheny or Pineville soils.

Typical pedon of Laidig channery loam, 15 to 35 percent slopes, extremely stony,

in a wooded area; about 2,000 feet south of the confluence of Big Branch with Lilly

Fork; USGS Clay topographic quadrangle; lat. 38 degrees 24 minutes 26 seconds N.

and long. 81 degrees 02 minutes 32 seconds W.

Oi—0 to 2 inches; slightly decomposed hardwood leaf litter.

Oe—2 to 3 inches; moderately decomposed hardwood leaf litter.

A—3 to 7 inches; dark brown (10YR 3/3) channery loam, brown (10YR 5/3) dry;

moderate fine and medium granular structure; very friable; many fine, medium,

and coarse roots; 15 percent rock fragments; very strongly acid; abrupt wavy

boundary.

BA—7 to 11 inches; dark yellowish brown (10YR 4/4) channery loam; weak fine and

medium subangular blocky structure; friable; many fine, medium, and coarse

roots; 15 percent rock fragments; very strongly acid; clear wavy boundary.

Bt1—11 to 27 inches; yellowish brown (10YR 5/6) channery loam; moderate medium

subangular blocky structure; friable; few distinct clay films on faces of peds and in

pores; common fine, medium, and coarse roots; 20 percent rock fragments; very

strongly acid; clear wavy boundary.

Bt2—27 to 42 inches; yellowish brown (10YR 5/4) channery loam; moderate medium

subangular blocky structure; friable; few distinct clay films on faces of peds and in

pores; common fine, medium, and coarse roots; 20 percent rock fragments; very

strongly acid; abrupt wavy boundary.

Btx—42 to 65 inches; yellowish brown (10YR 5/4) channery loam; few medium light

gray (2.5Y 7/2) iron depletions and strong brown (7.5YR 5/6) masses in which

iron has accumulated; weak very coarse prismatic structure parting to weak
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

67

medium and coarse subangular blocky; brittle; very firm; few distinct clay films on

faces of peds and in pores; few black concretions; 40 percent rock fragments;

very strongly acid.

The thickness of the solum ranges from 50 to 80 inches. The depth to bedrock is

more than 60 inches. Depth to the fragipan ranges from 30 to 50 inches. The content

of rock fragments ranges from 10 to 50 percent, by volume, in the A, BA, and

Bt horizons and from 25 to 60 percent, by volume, in the Btx horizon. In unlimed

areas reaction is extremely acid or very strongly acid.

The A horizon has hue of 10YR, value of 3, and chroma of 2 or 3. The texture of

the fine-earth material is loam. The A horizon has moderate fine or medium granular

structure and very friable or friable consistence.

The BA horizon has hue of 10YR, value of 4 or 5, and chroma of 3 or 4. The

texture of the fine-earth material is loam. The BA horizon has weak or moderate, fine

or medium subangular blocky structure and very friable or friable consistence.

The Bt horizon has hue of 10YR, value of 4 or 5, and chroma of 4 or 6. The texture

of the fine-earth material is loam, silt loam, or clay loam. The Bt horizon has moderate

medium or coarse subangular blocky structure and friable consistence.

The Btx horizon has hue of 10YR, value of 4 or 5, and chroma of 4 or 6. The

texture of the fine-earth material is sandy loam or loam. The Btx horizon has weak or

moderate very coarse prismatic structure and firm or very firm consistence.

Lily Series

The Lily series consists of moderately deep, well drained soils that formed in

acid material weathered from interbedded sandstone and shale. Lily soils are on

ridgetops and the upper side slopes throughout the county. Slope ranges from 8 to

35 percent.

Lily soils are on the landscape with the well drained Cedarcreek, Fairpoint, Gilpin,

Itmann, Laidig, and Pineville soils. Lily soils have fewer rock fragments in the control

section than Cedarcreek, Fairpoint, and Itmann soils; are typically underlain by hard

sandstone bedrock and have more sand in the control section than Gilpin soils; and

are not so deep as Pineville and Laidig soils.

Typical pedon of Lily loam, in a wooded area of Gilpin and Lily soils, 15 to

25 percent slopes; near the community of Elkhurst; about 110 feet southwest of

County Road 22 and about 2.3 miles south of where the road crosses over the Elk

River; USGS Elkhurst topographic quadrangle; lat. 38 degrees 25 minutes

22 seconds N. and long. 81 degrees 08 minutes 48 seconds W.

Oi—0 to 0.5 inch; slightly decomposed leaf litter.

Oe—0.5 inch to 2 inches; moderately decomposed leaf litter.

A/E—2 to 4 inches; mixed very dark gray (10YR 3/1), dark grayish brown (10YR 4/2),

and brown (10YR 5/3) loam; weak fine granular structure; very friable; many very

fine to coarse roots; 5 percent rock fragments; very strongly acid; clear wavy

boundary.

BE—4 to 12 inches; yellowish brown (10YR 5/4) loam; weak fine and medium

subangular blocky structure; friable; many very fine to coarse roots; 5 percent

rock fragments; strongly acid; clear wavy boundary.

Bt1—12 to 20 inches; mixed strong brown (7.5YR 5/6) and yellowish brown (10YR

5/6) loam; weak medium subangular blocky structure; friable; common fine to

coarse roots; 5 percent rock fragments; few faint clay films on faces of peds and

in pores; very strongly acid; clear wavy boundary.

Bt2—20 to 28 inches; strong brown (7.5YR 5/6) clay loam; moderate medium

subangular blocky structure; friable; common fine and medium roots; 10 percent
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

68

rock fragments; common faint clay films on faces of peds and in pores; very

strongly acid; gradual wavy boundary.

BC—28 to 32 inches; strong brown (7.5YR 5/6) channery sandy loam; weak medium

and coarse subangular blocky structure; friable; few fine roots; 25 percent rock

fragments; very strongly acid; abrupt smooth boundary.

R—32 inches; moderately weathered, hard sandstone.

The thickness of the solum ranges from 20 to 36 inches. The depth to bedrock

ranges from 20 to 40 inches. The content of rock fragments ranges from 0 to

30 percent, by volume, in individual horizons of the solum within a depth of 24 inches

to as much as 35 percent below a depth of 24 inches. The rock fragments are shale,

siltstone, and sandstone. In unlimed areas reaction is extremely acid to strongly acid.

The A, A/E, and E horizons have hue of 10YR, value of 2 to 5, and chroma of 1 to

3. The texture of the fine-earth material is loam, silt loam, or sandy loam. These

horizons have weak or moderate, fine or medium granular structure and very friable

or friable consistence.

The BE or BA horizon has hue of 10YR or 7.5YR, value of 4 or 5, and chroma of 4

or 6. The texture of the fine-earth material is loam or sandy loam. The BE and BA

horizons have weak or moderate, fine or medium subangular blocky structure and

friable or very friable consistence.

The Bt horizon has hue of 5YR, 7.5YR or 10YR; value of 4 to 6; and chroma of 4

to 8. The texture of the fine-earth material is loam, sandy clay loam, or clay loam. The

Bt horizon has weak or moderate, fine or medium subangular blocky structure and

friable or firm consistence.

The BC and C horizons have hue of 5YR, 7.5YR or 10YR; value of 4 to 6; and

chroma of 4 to 8. The texture of the fine-earth material is sandy loam, sandy clay

loam, fine sandy loam, clay loam, or loamy sand. The BC horizon has weak fine to

coarse subangular blocky structure. The C horizon has friable consistence.

Pineville Series

The Pineville series consists of very deep, well drained soils that formed in acid

material moved downslope from uplands. Pineville soils are in mountain coves and on

side slopes. Slope ranges from 35 to 70 percent.

Pineville soils are on the landscape with the well drained Cedarcreek, Fairpoint,

Gilpin, Itmann, Laidig, and Lily soils. Pineville soils have fewer rock fragments than

Cedarcreek, Fairpoint, and Itmann soils; are deeper to bedrock than Gilpin and Lily

soils; and do not have a fragipan, which is typical of Laidig soils.

Typical pedon of Pineville channery loam, in a wooded area of Pineville-GilpinLaidig association, very steep, extremely stony; about 1.9 miles south of the

confluence of Lilly Fork with Buffalo Creek; USGS Clay topographic quadrangle;

lat. 38 degrees 25 minutes 30 seconds N. and long. 81 degrees 03 minutes

17 seconds W.

Oi—0 to 1 inch; slightly decomposed hardwood leaf litter.

Oe—1 to 2 inches; moderately decomposed organic matter.

A—2 to 4 inches; very dark grayish brown (10YR 3/2) channery loam; moderate fine

granular structure; very friable; many fine, medium, and coarse roots; 15 percent

rock fragments; very strongly acid; abrupt wavy boundary.

BA—4 to 10 inches; dark yellowish brown (10YR 4/4) channery loam; weak medium

subangular blocky structure; friable; many fine, medium, and coarse roots;

15 percent rock fragments; very strongly acid; clear wavy boundary.

Bt1—10 to 20 inches; yellowish brown (10YR 5/6) channery loam; moderate medium

subangular blocky structure; friable; many fine, medium, and coarse roots; few
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

69

faint clay films on faces of peds and in pores; 20 percent rock fragments; very

strongly acid; clear wavy boundary.

Bt2—20 to 39 inches; yellowish brown (10YR 5/6) channery loam; moderate medium

and coarse subangular blocky structure; friable; common fine and medium roots;

common distinct clay films on faces of peds and in pores; 30 percent rock

fragments; extremely acid; clear wavy boundary.

Bt3—39 to 54 inches; yellowish brown (10YR 5/6) very channery loam; moderate

medium and coarse subangular blocky structure; friable or firm; few fine and

medium roots; few faint clay films on faces of peds and in pores; 35 percent rock

fragments; extremely acid; gradual wavy boundary.

C—54 to 65 inches; yellowish brown (10YR 5/6) very channery loam; massive; firm;

35 percent rock fragments; extremely acid.

The thickness of the solum ranges from 40 to 60 inches. The depth to bedrock is

more than 60 inches. The content of rock fragments ranges from 10 to 45 percent in

the A and B horizons and from 30 to 60 percent in the C horizon. In unlimed areas

reaction is very strongly acid or strongly acid.

The A horizon has hue of 10YR, value of 2 to 4, and chroma of 1 to 3. The texture

of the fine-earth material is loam or silt loam. The A horizon has moderate fine or

medium granular structure and very friable or friable consistence.

The BA horizon has hue of 10YR, value of 4 to 6, and chroma of 4. The texture of

the fine-earth material is loam. The BA horizon has weak fine or medium subangular

blocky structure and friable consistence.

The Bt horizon has hue of 10YR, value of 4 to 6, and chroma of 4 to 8. The texture

of the fine-earth material is loam or clay loam. The Bt horizon has weak or moderate,

fine to coarse subangular blocky structure and friable or firm consistence.

The C horizon has hue of 10YR, value of 5 or 6, and chroma of 4 to 8. The texture

of the fine-earth material is loam or sandy loam. It has friable or firm consistence.

Pope Series

The Pope series consists of very deep, well drained soils that formed in alluvial

material washed from acid soils on uplands. Pope soils are on flood plains, mostly

along the Elk River, Lilly Fork, and Buffalo, Leatherwood, Middle, Sycamore, Porter,

and Laurel Creeks. Slope ranges from 0 to 3 percent.

Pope soils are on the landscape with the well drained Allegheny, Chavies,

Craigsville, and Sensabaugh soils. Pope soils have fewer rock fragments in the B and

C horizons than Craigsville and Sensabaugh soils and have less clay in the B horizon

than Allegheny and Chavies soils.

Typical pedon of Pope sandy loam, in a wooded area along Lilly Fork; about

3,500 feet northwest of the confluence of Lick Branch with Lilly Fork and about

5,500 feet southwest of the confluence of Sinnett Branch with Lilly Fork; USGS

Clay topographic quadrangle; lat. 38 degrees 25 minutes 46 seconds N. and long.

81 degrees 03 minutes 17 seconds W.

Oi—0 to 1 inch; slightly decomposed hardwood leaf litter.

Ap—1 to 6 inches; brown (10YR 4/3) sandy loam; weak fine and medium granular

structure; very friable; many fine, medium, and coarse roots; very strongly acid;

abrupt smooth boundary.

BA—6 to 10 inches; dark yellowish brown (10YR 4/4) sandy loam; weak medium

subangular blocky structure; very friable; many fine, medium, and coarse roots;

very strongly acid; clear wavy boundary.

Bw1—10 to 15 inches; dark yellowish brown (10YR 4/6) sandy loam; weak medium

and coarse subangular blocky structure; very friable; many fine, medium, and

coarse roots; 10 percent rock fragments; strongly acid; clear wavy boundary.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

70

Bw2—15 to 36 inches; yellowish brown (10YR 5/6) sandy loam; weak medium and

coarse subangular blocky structure; friable; many fine, medium, and coarse roots;

very strongly acid; gradual wavy boundary.

C—36 to 65 inches; yellowish brown (10YR 5/6) sandy loam; massive; friable; very

strongly acid.

The thickness of the solum ranges from 30 to 50 inches. The depth to bedrock is

more than 60 inches. The content of rock fragments ranges from 0 to 15 percent, by

volume, in the A and Bw horizons and from 0 to 50 percent, by volume, in the

C horizon. In unlimed areas reaction is extremely acid to strongly acid.

The Ap horizon has hue of 10YR, value of 4, and chroma of 2 or 3. The texture of

the fine-earth material is sandy loam or loam. The Ap horizon has weak or moderate,

fine or medium granular structure and very friable or friable consistence.

The Bw horizon has hue of 10YR, value of 4 to 6, and chroma of 4 or 6. The

texture of the fine-earth material is fine sandy loam, sandy loam, or loam. The

Bw horizon has weak medium or coarse subangular blocky structure and very

friable or friable consistence.

The C horizon has hue of 10YR, value of 4 or 5, and chroma of 4 or 6. The texture

of the fine-earth material is loamy sand, sandy loam, or loam. The C horizon has very

friable or friable consistence.

Sensabaugh Series

The Sensabaugh series consists of very deep, well drained soils formed in alluvial

material that washed from lime-influenced, acid soils on uplands. Sensabaugh soils

are on flood plains along secondary streams in the northern part of the county. Slope

ranges from 0 to 3 percent.

Sensabaugh soils are on the landscape with the well drained Chavies, Craigsville,

Pope, and Vandalia soils. Sensabaugh soils have more rock fragments throughout the

profile than Chavies or Pope soils; have fewer rock fragments throughout the profile

than Craigsville soils; and have less clay than Vandalia soils.

Typical pedon of Sensabaugh silt loam, in a pastured area; along Swimminghole

Run; about 2,600 feet southwest of the confluence of Swimminghole Run and Big

Otter Creek; USGS Ivydale topographic quadrangle; lat. 38 degrees 34 minutes

55 seconds N. and long. 81 degrees 03 minutes 03 seconds W.

Ap—0 to 9 inches; dark brown (10YR 3/3) silt loam, brown (10YR 5/3) dry; moderate

fine and medium granular structure; very friable; many fine, medium, and coarse

roots; 10 percent rounded rock fragments; slightly acid; abrupt smooth boundary.

Bw1—9 to 20 inches; brown (7.5YR 4/4) gravelly loam; weak medium subangular

blocky structure; friable; many fine, medium, and coarse roots; 15 percent

rounded rock fragments; neutral; clear wavy boundary.

Bw2—20 to 33 inches; brown (7.5YR 4/4) gravelly loam; weak medium subangular

blocky structure; friable; 25 percent rounded rock fragments; moderately acid;

clear wavy boundary.

C—33 to 65 inches; brown (7.5YR 4/4) very gravelly loam; massive; friable;

45 percent rounded rock fragments; moderately acid.

The thickness of the solum ranges from 24 to 40 inches. The depth to bedrock is

more than 60 inches. The content of rounded rock fragments ranges from 0 to

30 percent in the individual horizons of the solum and from 30 to 60 percent in the

C horizon. In unlimed areas reaction is moderately acid to mildly alkaline.

The Ap horizon has hue of 5YR to 10YR and value and chroma of 3 or 4. The

texture of the fine-earth material is silt loam or loam. The Ap horizon has weak or

moderate, fine or medium granular structure and friable or very friable consistence.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

71

The Bw horizon has hue of 5YR or 7.5YR, value of 3 to 5, and chroma of 4 or 6.

The texture of the fine-earth material is silt loam, loam, clay loam, or sandy clay loam.

The Bw horizon has weak or moderate, fine, medium, or coarse subangular blocky

structure and friable or very friable consistence.

The C horizon has hue of 5YR or 7.5YR, value of 3 to 5, and chroma of 3 to 6.

The texture of the fine-earth material is loam, clay loam, or sandy clay loam. The

C horizon has friable or very friable consistence.

Udorthents

Udorthents are very shallow to very deep, well drained soils in areas that have

been disturbed by road construction, urban development, and mining. In Clay County,

these soils are in areas along highways and railroads, in areas around mining sites

and construction sites, and in other areas that have been excavated or filled. Slope

ranges from 0 percent in some areas to nearly vertical in cut areas.

A typical pedon for Udorthents is not given because the properties of these soils

varies so widely. Bedrock is exposed in some areas, but in other areas it is at a depth

of more than 60 inches. The rock fragments are mudstone, sandstone, or shale. They

vary in size and number. These soils have hue of 5YR, 7.5YR, or 10YR; value of 3 to

6; and chroma of 2 to 8. The texture of the fine-earth material is silt loam, loam, silty

clay loam, or clay loam. Reaction ranges from very strongly acid to neutral.

Upshur Series

The Upshur series consists of deep, well drained soils that formed in limeinfluenced, acid material weathered from siltstone and shale. Upshur soils are on

ridgetops, benches, and side slopes in the northern part of the county. Slope ranges

from 8 to 70 percent.

Upshur soils are on the landscape with the well drained Gilpin and Vandalia soils.

Upshur soils have more clay in the Bt horizon than Gilpin soils, and they have less

sand in the particle-size control section than Vandalia soils.

Typical pedon of Upshur silt loam, 35 to 70 percent slopes, in a wooded area of

Gilpin-Upshur complex, 35 to 70 percent slopes, very stony; along Murphy Fork;

about 5,300 feet northwest of the confluence of Mill Run with Murphy Fork; USGS

Ivydale topographic quadrangle; lat. 38 degrees 36 minutes 40 seconds N. and long.

81 degrees 04 minutes 30 seconds W.

Oi—0 to 2 inches; loose hardwood leaf litter.

Oe—2 to 3 inches; partially decomposed hardwood leaf litter.

A—3 to 7 inches; very dark grayish brown (10YR 3/2) silt loam; moderate medium

granular structure; friable; 5 percent rock fragments; many fine, medium, and

coarse roots; very strongly acid; abrupt wavy boundary.

BA—7 to 11 inches; reddish brown (5YR 4/4) silt loam; moderate fine and medium

subangular blocky structure; friable; 5 percent rock fragments; many fine,

medium, and coarse roots; very strongly acid; clear wavy boundary.

Bt1—11 to 22 inches; red (2.5YR 4/6) silty clay; strong medium subangular blocky

structure; firm; 5 percent rock fragments; many fine, medium, and coarse roots;

many distinct clay films on faces of peds and in pores; moderately alkaline; clear

wavy boundary.

Bt2—22 to 42 inches; dusky red (10R 3/4) clay; strong medium and coarse

subangular blocky structure; firm; 10 percent rock fragments; common fine,

medium, and coarse roots; many distinct clay films on faces of peds and in pores;

moderately alkaline; clear wavy boundary.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

72

C—42 to 65 inches; dusky red (10R 3/4) channery silty clay loam; massive; friable;

25 percent rock fragments; moderately alkaline; gradual wavy boundary.

Cr—65 inches; highly weathered, red shale.

The thickness of the solum ranges from 24 to 50 inches. The depth to bedrock

ranges from 40 to 70 inches. The content of rock fragments ranges from 0 to

15 percent in individual horizons of the solum and from 10 to 45 percent in the

C horizon. The rock fragments are shale and siltstone. In unlimed areas reaction is

strongly acid or very strongly acid in the A horizon and very strongly acid to mildly

alkaline in the B and C horizons.

The A horizon has hue of 10YR to 5YR, value of 2 to 4, and chroma of 2 or 4. The

texture of the fine-earth material is silt loam. The A horizon has moderate or strong,

fine or medium granular structure and friable or very friable consistence.

The Bt horizon has hue of 5YR to 10R, value of 3 or 4, and chroma of 4 or 6. The

texture of the fine-earth material is silty clay or clay. The Bt horizon has moderate or

strong, medium or coarse, angular or subangular blocky structure and friable or firm

consistence.

The C horizon has hue of 5YR to 10R, value of 3 or 4, and chroma of 4 or 6. The

texture of the fine-earth material is silt loam, silty clay loam, or clay. The C horizon

has friable or firm consistence.

Vandalia Series

The Vandalia series consists of very deep, well drained soils that formed in limeinfluenced, acid colluvial material moved downslope from soils on uplands. Vandalia

soils are on colluvial fans, footslopes, and benches and along drainageways in the

northern part of the county. Slope ranges from 15 to 35 percent.

Vandalia soils are on the landscape with the well drained Sensabaugh and Upshur

soils. Vandalia soils have more clay in their B and C horizons than Sensabaugh soils

and more sand in the particle-size control section than Upshur soils.

Typical pedon of Vandalia silt loam, 25 to 35 percent slopes, in an abandoned field

that is reverting to woodland; along Murphy Fork; about 3,000 feet north of the

confluence of Mill Run with Murphy Fork; about 3,400 feet southwest of Velvet Knob;

USGS Ivydale topographic quadrangle; lat. 38 degrees 36 minutes 50 seconds N. and

long. 81 degrees 03 minutes 38 seconds W.

Ap—0 to 8 inches; dark brown (10YR 3/3) silt loam, brown (10YR 5/3) dry; strong

medium granular structure; friable; many fine and medium roots; 5 percent rock

fragments; strongly acid; abrupt smooth boundary.

Bt1—8 to 14 inches; brown (7.5YR 4/4) silty clay loam; moderate medium subangular

blocky structure; friable; many fine and medium roots; 5 percent rock fragments;

many distinct clay films on faces of peds; strongly acid; clear wavy boundary.

Bt2—14 to 28 inches; reddish brown (5YR 4/4) silty clay; strong medium and coarse

subangular blocky structure; firm; many fine roots; 10 percent rock fragments;

many distinct clay films on faces of peds; strongly acid; clear wavy boundary.

Bt3—28 to 44 inches; reddish brown (5YR 4/4) channery silty clay; moderate medium

and coarse subangular blocky structure; firm; common fine roots; 15 percent rock

fragments; common distinct clay films on faces of peds; moderately acid; clear

wavy boundary.

C—44 to 65 inches; reddish brown (5YR 4/3) channery silty clay; common medium

distinct strong brown (7.5YR 5/8) iron concentrations; massive; firm; 30 percent

rock fragments; slightly acid.

The thickness of the solum ranges from 40 to 60 inches. The depth to bedrock is

more than 60 inches. The content of rock fragments ranges from 5 to 15 percent in
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

73

the A horizon, from 5 to 40 percent in individual subhorizons of the BA horizon (if it

occurs) and Bt horizon, and from 5 to 50 percent in the C horizon. The rock fragments

are shale, siltstone, and some sandstone. In unlimed areas reaction is moderately

acid to very strongly acid in the A, BA, and Bt horizons and strongly acid to neutral in

the C horizon.

The Ap horizon has hue of 7.5YR or 10YR, value of 3 or 4, and chroma of 2 to 4.

The texture of the fine-earth material is silt loam. The Ap horizon has moderate or

strong, fine or medium granular structure and friable consistence.

The Bt horizon has hue of 7.5YR or 5YR, value of 4 or 5, and chroma of 3 to 6. The

texture of the fine-earth material is silty clay loam or silty clay. The Bt horizon has

moderate or strong, medium or coarse subangular blocky structure and friable or firm

consistence.

The C horizon has hue of 2.5YR or 5YR, value of 4 or 5, and chroma of 3 to 6. The

texture of the fine-earth material is silty clay loam or silty clay. The C horizon has

friable or firm consistence.

75

Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

The origin and development of the soils in Clay County are explained in this

section. The five major factors of soil formation are identified, and their influence on

the soils in the county is described. Also, the morphology of the soils is related to

horizon nomenclature, the processes involved in horizon development, and the

geological characteristics of the county.

Factors of Soil Formation

The soils in Clay County formed as a result of the interaction of the five major

factors of soil formation—parent material, time, climate, living organisms, and

topography. Each factor modifies the effect of the others. Parent material, topography,

and time have resulted in the major differences among the soils in the county. Climate

and living organisms generally influence soil formation relatively uniformly throughout

broad areas.

Parent Material, Time, and Climate

The character of the parent material strongly influences both the time required for

soil formation and the characteristics of the soil that forms. The soils in Clay County

formed in residuum, colluvium, and alluvium. They formed in material derived from

interbedded shale, siltstone, or sandstone. For example, Upshur soils formed in

material weathered from interbedded claystone shale and siltstone, and Lily soils

formed in material weathered from sandstone.

Residuum refers to soil material formed by the physical and chemical weathering

of geologic materials in place. Soils that formed in residuum are generally the oldest

soils in the county. The formation of these soils has been limited by resistant rock,

slope, and constant erosion.

Colluvium refers to soil material or rock fragments, or both, moved downslope over

varying periods of time from areas of soils formed in residuum. It is in areas on

footslopes, on side slopes, in coves, and at the head of drainageways. For example,

Pineville soils, which formed in colluvium, are in the lower landscape positions, below

the Gilpin and Lily soils, which formed in residuum.

Alluvium refers to soil material that has been washed from soils on uplands. It is in

areas on low terraces and flood plains. The soil-forming processes have acted on the

material on low terraces for a considerable amount of time. Chavies soils, which

formed in alluvium and are on low terraces and high flood plains, exhibit more profile

development than the Craigsville, Pope, and Sensabaugh soils, which also formed in

alluvium but are generally on low flood plains. Craigsville, Pope, and Sensabaugh

soils formed in relatively recent deposits of alluvial material. They are the youngest

natural soils in Clay County.

The climate is relatively uniform throughout the survey area. So, while average

rainfall and temperature are significant in soil formation, they do not vary sufficiently

across the county to cause differences in soil development. A detailed description of

climate is given in the section “General Nature of the County.” Aspect, exposure, and

elevation affect soil development and properties but generally not sufficiently as to be

Formation of the Soils
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

76

expressed as differing soil series in this county. Nonetheless, soils in coves and on

north aspects where slope is more than 15 percent often have a higher content of

organic carbon than soils in other landscape positions.

Living Organisms

All living organisms, including plants, animals, bacteria, fungi, and people, affect

soil formation. The kinds and amounts of vegetation in the past are generally

responsible for the content of organic matter and color of the surface layer and are

partly responsible for the content of plant nutrients in the soil today. Earthworms and

burrowing animals help to keep the soil open and porous, and they can have a

significant impact on organic matter and plant nutrients. By moving soil to the surface

and creating passages underground, they mix and translocate mineral and organic

matter. Fungi and bacteria decompose organic matter, releasing plant nutrients.

Soil characteristics are disturbed when people clear vegetation, plow, mine, add

fertilizer, mix some of the soil horizons, or move soil material and rocks from place to

place. Soils have been disturbed on more than 17,500 acres in Clay County by the

surface mining of coal. The process of excavation and mixing of original soils and

underlying bedrock, followed by reclamation work, results in a newly formed soil with

very little profile development. Fairpoint soils are very deep, nonacid soils that are a

result of surface mining.

Topography

Topography affects soil formation by controlling the amount of water moving

through the soil and the amount and rate of surface runoff. The topographic position

of the soil on the landscape determines whether a soil forms in a depositional or

erosional environment.

Large amounts of water move through gently sloping or strongly sloping soils. This

action favors the formation of soils with a moderately developed or well developed

profile. On steep and very steep mountain side slopes, less water moves through the

soil profile and the amount and rate of surface runoff are greater. Thus, soil material

may be washed away nearly as rapidly as it forms. The complex interaction of slope,

runoff, and percolation over long periods of time and climate change gives rise to the

patterns of soils formed in residuum, colluvium, and alluvium as they occur on the

landscape.

The rugged mountain topography of this county favors the formation of flood plains,

which progresses rather rapidly. The natural and human-accelerated erosion from the

very steep uplands generates sediment, which forms alluvial soils where it is

deposited. The resulting alluvial soils on flood plains are weakly developed because

too little time has elapsed for the development of well defined soil horizons.

Morphology of the Soils

The results of the soil-forming processes are evident in the different layers, or

horizons, in the soil profile. The profile extends from the surface downward to material

that is relatively unaltered by the soil-forming processes. Most soils have three major

horizons, called the A, B, and C horizons.

The A horizon is the surface layer. It generally has the maximum amount of organic

matter in the profile, making it darker than the underlying horizons. It is the layer of

maximum leaching, or eluviation, of clay and iron.

The B horizon underlies the A horizon and is commonly called the subsoil. It

is characterized by blocky structure and is more firm and lighter in color than the

A horizon. It is the layer of maximum accumulation, or illuviation, of clay, iron,

aluminum, and other constituents leached from overlying layers.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

77

The C horizon occurs below the A and B horizons. It is composed of weathered

material that is little changed by the soil-forming processes.

Soil horizons are formed by the interaction of many processes. Some of the more

important of these are the accumulation of organic matter; the leaching of soluble

salts; the reduction, transport, and oxidation of iron and manganese; the formation

and translocation of clay minerals; and the formation of soil structure. These

processes have been taking place for thousands of years in many soils in the county.

79

Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. 1986. Standard

specifications for highway materials and methods of sampling and testing. Ed. 14,

2 vols.

American Society for Testing and Materials. 1993. Standard classification of soils for

engineering purposes. ASTM Stand. D 2487.

Cardwell, D.H., R.B. Erwin, and H.P. Woodward. 1986 revision. 1968 geologic map of

West Virginia. 2 parts.

Clay County History Book Committee. 1989. History of Clay County, West Virginia.

Vol. 1.

Clay County History Book Committee. 1994. History of Clay County, West Virginia.

Vol. 2.

DiGiovanni, Dawn M. 1990. Forest statistics for West Virginia—1975 and 1989.

Driscoll, F.G. 1989. Ground water and wells. 2nd edition.

Hennen, R.V., R.M. Gawthrop, and I.C. White. 1917. West Virginia geological survey,

county report—Braxton and Clay Counties.

Hicks, R. 1998. Ecology and management of central hardwood forests.

Latimer, W.J., and C.N. Mooney. 1920. Soil survey of Braxton and Clay Counties,

West Virginia. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Soils.

Soil Survey Division Staff. 1993. Soil survey manual. Soil Conservation Service.

U.S. Department of Agriculture Handbook 18.

Soil Survey Staff. 1975. Soil taxonomy: A basic system of soil classification for making

and interpreting soil surveys. U.S. Department of Agriculture Handbook 436. (Revised

in 1999)

Soil Survey Staff. 1992. Keys to soil taxonomy. 5th edition. U.S. Department of

Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. (Revised in 1994, 1996, 1998,

and 2003)

United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service. 1981. Land

resource regions and major land resource areas of the United States. U.S.

Department of Agriculture Handbook 296.

References
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

80

United States Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census. 1992. 1990 census

of population and housing—West Virginia. CPH-5-50.

United States Department of Commerce, Economics and Statistics Administration.

1994. 1992 census of agriculture, West Virginia state and county data. AC92-A-48.

West Virginia Department of Agriculture, Forestry Division. 1991. The forest industry

of West Virginia.
81

Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

ABC soil. A soil having an A, a B, and a C horizon.

Ablation till. Loose, permeable till deposited during the final downwasting of glacial

ice. Lenses of crudely sorted sand and gravel are common.

AC soil. A soil having only an A and a C horizon. Commonly, such soil formed in

recent alluvium or on steep, rocky slopes.

Aeration, soil. The exchange of air in soil with air from the atmosphere. The air in a

well aerated soil is similar to that in the atmosphere; the air in a poorly aerated

soil is considerably higher in carbon dioxide and lower in oxygen.

Aggregate, soil. Many fine particles held in a single mass or cluster. Natural soil

aggregates, such as granules, blocks, or prisms, are called peds. Clods are

aggregates produced by tillage or logging.

Alkali (sodic) soil. A soil having so high a degree of alkalinity (pH 8.5 or higher) or

so high a percentage of exchangeable sodium (15 percent or more of the total

exchangeable bases), or both, that plant growth is restricted.

Alluvial cone. The material washed down the sides of mountains and hills by

ephemeral streams and deposited at the mouth of gorges in the form of a

moderately steep, conical mass descending equally in all directions from the

point of issue.

Alluvial fan. The fanlike deposit of a stream where it issues from a gorge upon a

plain or of a tributary stream near or at its junction with its main stream.

Alluvium. Material, such as sand, silt, or clay, deposited on land by streams.

Alpha,alpha-dipyridyl. A dye that when dissolved in 1N ammonium acetate is used

to detect the presence of reduced iron (Fe II) in the soil. A positive reaction

indicates a type of redoximorphic feature.

Animal unit month (AUM). The amount of forage required by one mature cow of

approximately 1,000 pounds weight, with or without a calf, for 1 month.

Aquic conditions. Current soil wetness characterized by saturation, reduction, and

redoximorphic features.

Area reclaim (in tables). An area difficult to reclaim after the removal of soil for

construction and other uses. Revegetation and erosion control are extremely

difficult.

Argillic horizon. A subsoil horizon characterized by an accumulation of illuvial clay.

Arroyo. The flat-floored channel of an ephemeral stream, commonly with very steep

to vertical banks cut in alluvium.

Aspect. The direction in which a slope faces.

Association, soil. A group of soils or miscellaneous areas geographically associated

in a characteristic repeating pattern and defined and delineated as a single map

unit.

Available water capacity (available moisture capacity). The capacity of soils to

hold water available for use by most plants. It is commonly defined as the

difference between the amount of soil water at field moisture capacity and the

amount at wilting point. It is commonly expressed as inches of water per inch of

soil. The capacity, in inches, in a 60-inch profile or to a limiting layer is expressed

as:

Glossary
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

82

Very low .............................................................. 0 to 3

Low ...................................................................... 3 to 6

Moderate ............................................................. 6 to 9

High ................................................................... 9 to 12

Very high ................................................ more than 12

Backslope. The geomorphic component that forms the steepest inclined surface and

principal element of many hillsides. Backslopes in profile are commonly steep,

are linear, and may or may not include cliff segments.

Badland. Steep or very steep, commonly nonstony, barren land dissected by many

intermittent drainage channels. Badland is most common in semiarid and arid

regions where streams are entrenched in soft geologic material. Local relief

generally ranges from 25 to 500 feet. Runoff potential is very high, and geologic

erosion is active.

Bajada. A broad alluvial slope extending from the base of a mountain range out into a

basin and formed by coalescence of separate alluvial fans.

Basal area. The area of a cross section of a tree, generally referring to the section at

breast height and measured outside the bark. It is a measure of stand density,

commonly expressed in square feet.

Basal till. Compact glacial till deposited beneath the ice.

Base saturation. The degree to which material having cation-exchange properties is

saturated with exchangeable bases (sum of Ca, Mg, Na, and K), expressed as a

percentage of the total cation-exchange capacity.

Bedding planes. Fine strata, less than 5 millimeters thick, in unconsolidated alluvial,

eolian, lacustrine, or marine sediment.

Bedding system. A drainage system made by plowing, grading, or otherwise

shaping the surface of a flat field. It consists of a series of low ridges separated

by shallow, parallel dead furrows.

Bedrock. The solid rock that underlies the soil and other unconsolidated material or

that is exposed at the surface.

Bedrock-controlled topography. A landscape where the configuration and relief of

the landforms are determined or strongly influenced by the underlying bedrock.

Bench terrace. A raised, level or nearly level strip of earth constructed on or nearly

on a contour, supported by a barrier of rocks or similar material, and designed to

make the soil suitable for tillage and to prevent accelerated erosion.

Bisequum. Two sequences of soil horizons, each of which consists of an illuvial

horizon and the overlying eluvial horizons.

Blowout. A shallow depression from which all or most of the soil material has been

removed by the wind. A blowout has a flat or irregular floor formed by a resistant

layer or by an accumulation of pebbles or cobbles. In some blowouts the water

table is exposed.

Bottom land. The normal flood plain of a stream, subject to flooding.

Boulders. Rock fragments larger than 2 feet (60 centimeters) in diameter.

Breaks. The steep and very steep broken land at the border of an upland summit that

is dissected by ravines.

Breast height. An average height of 4.5 feet above the ground surface; the point on a

tree where diameter measurements are ordinarily taken.

Brush management. Use of mechanical, chemical, or biological methods to make

conditions favorable for reseeding or to reduce or eliminate competition from

woody vegetation and thus allow understory grasses and forbs to recover. Brush

management increases forage production and thus reduces the hazard of

erosion. It can improve the habitat for some species of wildlife.

Butte. An isolated small mountain or hill with steep or precipitous sides and a top

variously flat, rounded, or pointed that may be a residual mass isolated by

erosion or an exposed volcanic neck.
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Cable yarding. A method of moving felled trees to a nearby central area for transport

to a processing facility. Most cable yarding systems involve use of a drum, a pole,

and wire cables in an arrangement similar to that of a rod and reel used for

fishing. To reduce friction and soil disturbance, felled trees generally are reeled in

while one end is lifted or the entire log is suspended.

Calcareous soil. A soil containing enough calcium carbonate (commonly combined

with magnesium carbonate) to effervesce visibly when treated with cold, dilute

hydrochloric acid.

Caliche. A more or less cemented deposit of calcium carbonate in soils of warmtemperate, subhumid to arid areas. Caliche occurs as soft, thin layers in the soil

or as hard, thick beds directly beneath the solum, or it is exposed at the surface

by erosion.

California bearing ratio (CBR). The load-supporting capacity of a soil as compared

to that of standard crushed limestone, expressed as a ratio. First standardized in

California. A soil having a CBR of 16 supports 16 percent of the load that would

be supported by standard crushed limestone, per unit area, with the same degree

of distortion.

Canopy. The leafy crown of trees or shrubs. (See Crown.)

Canyon. A long, deep, narrow, very steep sided valley with high, precipitous walls in

an area of high local relief.

Capillary water. Water held as a film around soil particles and in tiny spaces between

particles. Surface tension is the adhesive force that holds capillary water in the

soil.

Carbolith. Dark sedimentary rocks that make a black or very dark (Munsell value of

3 or less) streak or powder. Carbolith include coal, bone coal, high-carbon shales,

and high-carbon mudstone. In general, this material contains at least 25 percent

carbonaceous matter oxidizable at 350 to 400 degrees C.

Catena. A sequence, or “chain,” of soils on a landscape that formed in similar kinds of

parent material but have different characteristics as a result of differences in relief

and drainage.

Cation. An ion carrying a positive charge of electricity. The common soil cations are

calcium, potassium, magnesium, sodium, and hydrogen.

Cation-exchange capacity. The total amount of exchangeable cations that can

be held by the soil, expressed in terms of milliquivalents per 100 grams of soil

at neutrality (pH 7.0) or at some other stated pH value. The term, as applied to

soils, is synonymous with base-exchange capacity but is more precise in

meaning.

Catsteps. Very small, irregular terraces on steep hillsides, especially in pasture,

formed by the trampling of cattle or the slippage of saturated soil.

Cement rock. Shaly limestone used in the manufacture of cement.

Channery soil material. Soil material that is, by volume, 15 to 35 percent thin, flat

fragments of sandstone, shale, slate, limestone, or schist as much as 6 inches

(15 centimeters) along the longest axis. A single piece is called a channer.

Chemical treatment. Control of unwanted vegetation through the use of chemicals.

Chiseling. Tillage with an implement having one or more soil-penetrating points that

shatter or loosen hard, compacted layers to a depth below normal plow depth.

Cirque. A semicircular, concave, bowllike area that has steep faces primarily resulting

from glacial ice and snow abrasion.

Clay. As a soil separate, the mineral soil particles less than 0.002 millimeter in

diameter. As a soil textural class, soil material that is 40 percent or more clay, less

than 45 percent sand, and less than 40 percent silt.

Clay depletions. Low-chroma zones having a low content of iron, manganese, and

clay because of the chemical reduction of iron and manganese and the removal

of iron, manganese, and clay. A type of redoximorphic depletion.
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Clay film. A thin coating of oriented clay on the surface of a soil aggregate or lining

pores or root channels. Synonyms: clay coating, clay skin.

Claypan. A slowly permeable soil horizon that contains much more clay than the

horizons above it. A claypan is commonly hard when dry and plastic or stiff when

wet.

Climax plant community. The stabilized plant community on a particular site. The

plant cover reproduces itself and does not change so long as the environment

remains the same.

Coarse textured soil. Sand or loamy sand.

Cobble (or cobblestone). A rounded or partly rounded fragment of rock 3 to

10 inches (7.6 to 25 centimeters) in diameter.

Cobbly soil material. Material that is 15 to 35 percent, by volume, rounded or

partially rounded rock fragments 3 to 10 inches (7.6 to 25 centimeters) in

diameter. Very cobbly soil material has 35 to 60 percent of these rock fragments,

and extremely cobbly soil material has more than 60 percent.

Colluvium. Soil material or rock fragments, or both, moved by creep, slide, or local

wash and deposited at the base of steep slopes.

Complex slope. Irregular or variable slope. Planning or establishing terraces,

diversions, and other water-control structures on a complex slope is difficult.

Complex, soil. A map unit of two or more kinds of soil or miscellaneous areas in

such an intricate pattern or so small in area that it is not practical to map them

separately at the selected scale of mapping. The pattern and proportion of the

soils or miscellaneous areas are somewhat similar in all areas.

Compressible (in tables). Excessive decrease in volume of soft soil under load.

Concretions. Cemented bodies with crude internal symmetry organized around a

point, a line, or a plane. They typically take the form of concentric layers visible to

the naked eye. Calcium carbonate, iron oxide, and manganese oxide are common

compounds making up concretions. If formed in place, concretions of iron oxide

or manganese oxide are generally considered a type of redoximorphic

concentration.

Congeliturbate. Soil material disturbed by frost action.

Conglomerate. A coarse grained, clastic rock composed of rounded or subangular

rock fragments more than 2 millimeters in diameter. It commonly has a matrix of

sand and finer textured material. Conglomerate is the consolidated equivalent of

gravel.

Conservation cropping system. Growing crops in combination with needed cultural

and management practices. In a good conservation cropping system, the soilimproving crops and practices more than offset the effects of the soil-depleting

crops and practices. Cropping systems are needed on all tilled soils. Soilimproving practices in a conservation cropping system include the use of

rotations that contain grasses and legumes and the return of crop residue to the

soil. Other practices include the use of green manure crops of grasses and

legumes, proper tillage, adequate fertilization, and weed and pest control.

Conservation tillage. A tillage system that does not invert the soil and that leaves a

protective amount of crop residue on the surface throughout the year.

Consistence, soil. Refers to the degree of cohesion and adhesion of soil material

and its resistance to deformation when ruptured. Consistence includes resistance

of soil material to rupture and to penetration; plasticity, toughness, and stickiness

of puddled soil material; and the manner in which the soil material behaves when

subject to compression. Terms describing consistence are defined in the “Soil

Survey Manual.”

Contour stripcropping. Growing crops in strips that follow the contour. Strips of

grass or close-growing crops are alternated with strips of clean-tilled crops or

summer fallow.
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Control section. The part of the soil on which classification is based. The thickness

varies among different kinds of soil, but for many it is that part of the soil profile

between depths of 10 inches and 40 or 80 inches.

Coppice dune. A small dune of fine grained soil material stabilized around shrubs or

small trees.

Coprogenous earth (sedimentary peat). Fecal material deposited in water by

aquatic organisms.

Corrosion. Soil-induced electrochemical or chemical action that dissolves or

weakens concrete or uncoated steel.

Cover crop. A close-growing crop grown primarily to improve and protect the soil

between periods of regular crop production, or a crop grown between trees and

vines in orchards and vineyards.

Cropping system. Growing crops according to a planned system of rotation and

management practices.

Crop residue management. Returning crop residue to the soil, which helps to

maintain soil structure, organic matter content, and fertility and helps to control

erosion.

Cross-slope farming. Deliberately conducting farming operations on sloping

farmland in such a way that tillage is across the general slope.

Crown. The upper part of a tree or shrub, including the living branches and their

foliage.

Cuesta. A hill or ridge that has a gentle slope on one side and a steep slope on the

other; specifically, an asymmetric, homoclinal ridge capped by resistant rock

layers of slight or moderate dip.

Culmination of the mean annual increment (CMAI). The average annual increase

per acre in the volume of a stand. Computed by dividing the total volume of the

stand by its age. As the stand increases in age, the mean annual increment

continues to increase until mortality begins to reduce the rate of increase. The

point where the stand reaches its maximum annual rate of growth is called the

culmination of the mean annual increment.

Cutbanks cave (in tables). The walls of excavations tend to cave in or slough.

Decreasers. The most heavily grazed climax range plants. Because they are the

most palatable, they are the first to be destroyed by overgrazing.

Deferred grazing. Postponing grazing or resting grazing land for a prescribed

period.

Delta. A body of alluvium having a surface that is nearly flat and fan shaped;

deposited at or near the mouth of a river or stream where it enters a body of

relatively quiet water, generally a sea or lake.

Dense layer (in tables). A very firm, massive layer that has a bulk density of more

than 1.8 grams per cubic centimeter. Such a layer affects the ease of digging and

can affect filling and compacting.

Depth, soil. Generally, the thickness of the soil over bedrock. Very deep soils are

more than 60 inches deep over bedrock; deep soils, 40 to 60 inches; moderately

deep, 20 to 40 inches; shallow, 10 to 20 inches; and very shallow, less than 10

inches.

Depth to rock (in tables). Bedrock is too near the surface for the specified use.

Desert pavement. On a desert surface, a layer of gravel or larger fragments that was

emplaced by upward movement of the underlying sediments or that remains after

finer particles have been removed by running water or the wind.

Dip slope. A slope of the land surface, roughly determined by and approximately

conforming to the dip of the underlying bedrock.

Diversion (or diversion terrace). A ridge of earth, generally a terrace, built to protect

downslope areas by diverting runoff from its natural course.
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Divided-slope farming. A form of field stripcropping in which crops are grown in a

systematic arrangement of two strips, or bands, across the slope to reduce the

hazard of water erosion. One strip is in a close-growing crop that provides

protection from erosion, and the other strip is in a crop that provides less

protection from erosion. This practice is used where slopes are not long enough

to permit a full stripcropping pattern to be used.

Drainage class (natural). Refers to the frequency and duration of wet periods under

conditions similar to those under which the soil formed. Alterations of the water

regime by human activities, either through drainage or irrigation, are not a

consideration unless they have significantly changed the morphology of the soil.

Seven classes of natural soil drainage are recognized—excessively drained,

somewhat excessively drained, well drained, moderately well drained, somewhat

poorly drained, poorly drained, and very poorly drained. These classes are

defined in the “Soil Survey Manual.”

Drainage, surface. Runoff, or surface flow of water, from an area.

Draw. A small stream valley that generally is more open and has broader bottom land

than a ravine or gulch.

Drumlin. A low, smooth, elongated oval hill, mound, or ridge of compact glacial till.

The longer axis is parallel to the path of the glacier and commonly has a blunt

nose pointing in the direction from which the ice approached.

Duff. A generally firm organic layer on the surface of mineral soils. It consists of fallen

plant material that is in the process of decomposition and includes everything

from the litter on the surface to underlying pure humus.

Eluviation. The movement of material in true solution or colloidal suspension from

one place to another within the soil. Soil horizons that have lost material through

eluviation are eluvial; those that have received material are illuvial.

Endosaturation. A type of saturation of the soil in which all horizons between the

upper boundary of saturation and a depth of 2 meters are saturated.

Eolian soil material. Earthy parent material accumulated through wind action;

commonly refers to sandy material in dunes or to loess in blankets on the

surface.

Ephemeral stream. A stream, or reach of a stream, that flows only in direct response

to precipitation. It receives no long-continued supply from melting snow or other

source, and its channel is above the water table at all times.

Episaturation. A type of saturation indicating a perched water table in a soil in which

saturated layers are underlain by one or more unsaturated layers within 2 meters

of the surface.

Erosion. The wearing away of the land surface by water, wind, ice, or other geologic

agents and by such processes as gravitational creep.

Erosion (geologic).—Erosion caused by geologic processes acting over long

geologic periods and resulting in the wearing away of mountains and the building

up of such landscape features as flood plains and coastal plains. Synonym:

natural erosion.

Erosion (accelerated).—Erosion much more rapid than geologic erosion, mainly

as a result of human or animal activities or of a catastrophe in nature, such as a

fire, that exposes the surface.

Erosion pavement. A layer of gravel or stones that remains on the surface after fine

particles are removed by sheet or rill erosion.

Escarpment. A relatively continuous and steep slope or cliff breaking the general

continuity of more gently sloping land surfaces and resulting from erosion or

faulting. Synonym: scarp.

Esker. A narrow, winding ridge of stratified gravelly and sandy drift deposited by a

stream flowing in a tunnel beneath a glacier.
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Excess fines (in tables). Excess silt and clay in the soil. The soil does not provide a

source of gravel or sand for construction purposes.

Excess lime (in tables). Excess carbonates in the soil that restrict the growth of some

plants.

Excess salts (in tables). Excess water-soluble salts in the soil that restrict the growth

of most plants.

Excess sodium (in tables). Excess exchangeable sodium in the soil. The resulting

poor physical properties restrict the growth of plants.

Excess sulfur (in tables). Excessive amount of sulfur in the soil. The sulfur causes

extreme acidity if the soil is drained, and the growth of most plants is restricted.

Extrusive rock. Igneous rock derived from deep-seated molten matter (magma)

emplaced on the Earth’s surface.

Fallow. Cropland left idle in order to restore productivity through accumulation of

moisture. Summer fallow is common in regions of limited rainfall where cereal

grain is grown. The soil is tilled for at least one growing season for weed control

and decomposition of plant residue.

Fan terrace. A relict alluvial fan, no longer a site of active deposition, incised by

younger and lower alluvial surfaces.

Fast intake (in tables). The rapid movement of water into the soil.

Fertility, soil. The quality that enables a soil to provide plant nutrients, in adequate

amounts and in proper balance, for the growth of specified plants when light,

moisture, temperature, tilth, and other growth factors are favorable.

Field moisture capacity. The moisture content of a soil, expressed as a percentage

of the ovendry weight, after the gravitational, or free, water has drained away; the

field moisture content 2 or 3 days after a soaking rain; also called normal field

capacity, normal moisture capacity, or capillary capacity.

Fill slope. A sloping surface consisting of excavated soil material from a road cut. It

commonly is on the downhill side of the road.

Fine earth. That portion of the soil consisting of particles less than 2 millimeters in

diameter. Particles and rock fragments 2 millimeters in diameter or larger are not

included.

Fine textured soil. Sandy clay, silty clay, or clay.

Firebreak. Area cleared of flammable material to stop or help control creeping or

running fires. It also serves as a line from which to work and to facilitate the

movement of firefighters and equipment. Designated roads also serve as

firebreaks.

First bottom. The normal flood plain of a stream, subject to frequent or occasional

flooding.

Flaggy soil material. Material that is, by volume, 15 to 35 percent flagstones. Very

flaggy soil material has 35 to 60 percent flagstones, and extremely flaggy soil

material has more than 60 percent flagstones.

Flagstone. A thin fragment of sandstone, limestone, slate, shale, or (rarely) schist

6 to 15 inches (15 to 38 centimeters) long.

Flood plain. A nearly level alluvial plain that borders a stream and is subject to

flooding unless protected artificially.

Fluvial. Of or pertaining to rivers; produced by river action, as a fluvial plain.

Foothill. A steeply sloping upland that has relief of as much as 1,000 feet

(300 meters) and fringes a mountain range or high-plateau escarpment.

Footslope. The inclined surface at the base of a hill.

Forb. Any herbaceous plant not a grass or a sedge.

Forest cover. All trees and other woody plants (underbrush) covering the ground

in a forest.
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Forest type. A stand of trees similar in composition and development because of

given physical and biological factors by which it may be differentiated from other

stands.

Fragile (in tables). A soil that is easily damaged by use or disturbance.

Fragipan. A loamy, brittle subsurface horizon low in porosity and content of organic

matter and low or moderate in clay but high in silt or very fine sand. A fragipan

appears cemented and restricts roots. When dry, it is hard or very hard and has a

higher bulk density than the horizon or horizons above. When moist, it tends to

rupture suddenly under pressure rather than to deform slowly.

Frost action (in tables). Freezing and thawing of soil moisture. Frost action can

damage roads, buildings and other structures, and plant roots.

Genesis, soil. The mode of origin of the soil. Refers especially to the processes or

soil-forming factors responsible for the formation of the solum, or true soil, from

the unconsolidated parent material.

Gilgai. Commonly, a succession of microbasins and microknolls in nearly level areas

or of microvalleys and microridges parallel with the slope. Typically, the microrelief

of clayey soils that shrink and swell considerably with changes in moisture

content.

Glacial drift. Pulverized and other rock material transported by glacial ice and then

deposited. Also, the sorted and unsorted material deposited by streams flowing

from glaciers.

Glacial outwash. Gravel, sand, and silt, commonly stratified, deposited by glacial

meltwater.

Glacial till. Unsorted, nonstratified glacial drift consisting of clay, silt, sand, and

boulders transported and deposited by glacial ice.

Glaciofluvial deposits. Material moved by glaciers and subsequently sorted and

deposited by streams flowing from the melting ice. The deposits are stratified and

occur as kames, eskers, deltas, and outwash plains.

Glaciolacustrine deposits. Material ranging from fine clay to sand derived from

glaciers and deposited in glacial lakes mainly by glacial meltwater. Many deposits

are interbedded or laminated.

Gleyed soil. Soil that formed under poor drainage, resulting in the reduction of iron

and other elements in the profile and in gray colors.

Graded stripcropping. Growing crops in strips that grade toward a protected

waterway.

Grassed waterway. A natural or constructed waterway, typically broad and shallow,

seeded to grass as protection against erosion. Conducts surface water away from

cropland.

Gravel. Rounded or angular fragments of rock as much as 3 inches (2 millimeters to

7.6 centimeters) in diameter. An individual piece is a pebble.

Gravelly soil material. Material that is 15 to 35 percent, by volume, rounded or

angular rock fragments, not prominently flattened, as much as 3 inches

(7.6 centimeters) in diameter.

Green manure crop (agronomy). A soil-improving crop grown to be plowed under in

an early stage of maturity or soon after maturity.

Ground water. Water filling all the unblocked pores of the material below the water

table.

Gully. A miniature valley with steep sides cut by running water and through which

water ordinarily runs only after rainfall. The distinction between a gully and a rill is

one of depth. A gully generally is an obstacle to farm machinery and is too deep

to be obliterated by ordinary tillage; a rill is of lesser depth and can be smoothed

over by ordinary tillage.

Hard bedrock. Bedrock that cannot be excavated except by blasting or by the use of

special equipment that is not commonly used in construction.
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Hardpan. A hardened or cemented soil horizon, or layer. The soil material is sandy,

loamy, or clayey and is cemented by iron oxide, silica, calcium carbonate, or other

substance.

Head out. To form a flower head.

High-residue crops. Such crops as small grain and corn used for grain. If properly

managed, residue from these crops can be used to control erosion until the next

crop in the rotation is established. These crops return large amounts of organic

matter to the soil.

Hill. A natural elevation of the land surface, rising as much as 1,000 feet above

surrounding lowlands, commonly of limited summit area and having a well

defined outline; hillsides generally have slopes of more than 15 percent. The

distinction between a hill and a mountain is arbitrary and is dependent on local

usage.

Horizon, soil. A layer of soil, approximately parallel to the surface, having distinct

characteristics produced by soil-forming processes. In the identification of soil

horizons, an uppercase letter represents the major horizons. Numbers or

lowercase letters that follow represent subdivisions of the major horizons. An

explanation of the subdivisions is given in the “Soil Survey Manual.” The major

horizons of mineral soil are as follows:

O horizon.—An organic layer of fresh and decaying plant residue.

A horizon.—The mineral horizon at or near the surface in which an accumulation

of humified organic matter is mixed with the mineral material. Also, a plowed

surface horizon, most of which was originally part of a B horizon.

E horizon.—The mineral horizon in which the main feature is loss of silicate clay,

iron, aluminum, or some combination of these.

B horizon.—The mineral horizon below an A horizon. The B horizon is in part a

layer of transition from the overlying A to the underlying C horizon. The B horizon

also has distinctive characteristics, such as (1) accumulation of clay,

sesquioxides, humus, or a combination of these; (2) prismatic or blocky structure;

(3) redder or browner colors than those in the A horizon; or (4) a combination of

these.

C horizon.—The mineral horizon or layer, excluding indurated bedrock, that is

little affected by soil-forming processes and does not have the properties typical

of the overlying soil material. The material of a C horizon may be either like or

unlike that in which the solum formed. If the material is known to differ from that in

the solum, an Arabic numeral, commonly a 2, precedes the letter C.

Cr horizon.—Soft, consolidated bedrock beneath the soil.

R layer.—Consolidated bedrock beneath the soil. The bedrock commonly

underlies a C horizon, but it can be directly below an A or a B horizon.

Humus. The well decomposed, more or less stable part of the organic matter in

mineral soils.

Hydrologic soil groups. Refers to soils grouped according to their runoff potential.

The soil properties that influence this potential are those that affect the minimum

rate of water infiltration on a bare soil during periods after prolonged wetting

when the soil is not frozen. These properties are depth to a seasonal high water

table, the infiltration rate and permeability after prolonged wetting, and depth to a

very slowly permeable layer. The slope and the kind of plant cover are not

considered but are separate factors in predicting runoff.

Igneous rock. Rock formed by solidification from a molten or partially molten state.

Major varieties include plutonic and volcanic rock. Examples are andesite, basalt,

and granite.

Illuviation. The movement of soil material from one horizon to another in the soil

profile. Generally, material is removed from an upper horizon and deposited in a

lower horizon.
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Impervious soil. A soil through which water, air, or roots penetrate slowly or not at

all. No soil is absolutely impervious to air and water all the time.

Increasers. Species in the climax vegetation that increase in amount as the more

desirable plants are reduced by close grazing. Increasers commonly are the

shorter plants and the less palatable to livestock.

Infiltration. The downward entry of water into the immediate surface of soil or other

material, as contrasted with percolation, which is movement of water through soil

layers or material.

Infiltration capacity. The maximum rate at which water can infiltrate into a soil under

a given set of conditions.

Infiltration rate. The rate at which water penetrates the surface of the soil at any

given instant, usually expressed in inches per hour. The rate can be limited by the

infiltration capacity of the soil or the rate at which water is applied at the surface.

Intake rate. The average rate of water entering the soil under irrigation. Most soils

have a fast initial rate; the rate decreases with application time. Therefore, intake

rate for design purposes is not a constant but is a variable depending on the net

irrigation application. The rate of water intake, in inches per hour, is expressed as

follows:

Less than 0.2 ................................................. very low

0.2 to 0.4 ................................................................ low

0.4 to 0.75 ........................................... moderately low

0.75 to 1.25 .................................................. moderate

1.25 to 1.75 ........................................ moderately high

1.75 to 2.5 ............................................................. high

More than 2.5 ................................................ very high

Intermittent stream. A stream, or reach of a stream, that flows for prolonged periods

only when it receives ground-water discharge or long, continued contributions

from melting snow or other surface and shallow subsurface sources.

Invaders. On range, plants that encroach into an area and grow after the climax

vegetation has been reduced by grazing. Generally, plants invade following

disturbance of the surface.

Iron depletions. Low-chroma zones having a low content of iron and manganese

oxide because of chemical reduction and removal, but having a clay content

similar to that of the adjacent matrix. A type of redoximorphic depletion.

Irrigation. Application of water to soils to assist in production of crops. Methods of

irrigation are:

Basin.—Water is applied rapidly to nearly level plains surrounded by levees or

dikes.

Border.—Water is applied at the upper end of a strip in which the lateral flow of

water is controlled by small earth ridges called border dikes, or borders.

Controlled flooding.—Water is released at intervals from closely spaced field

ditches and distributed uniformly over the field.

Corrugation.—Water is applied to small, closely spaced furrows or ditches in

fields of close-growing crops or in orchards so that it flows in only one direction.

Drip (or trickle).—Water is applied slowly and under low pressure to the surface

of the soil or into the soil through such applicators as emitters, porous tubing, or

perforated pipe.

Furrow.—Water is applied in small ditches made by cultivation implements.

Furrows are used for tree and row crops.

Sprinkler.—Water is sprayed over the soil surface through pipes or nozzles from a

pressure system.

Subirrigation.—Water is applied in open ditches or tile lines until the water table is

raised enough to wet the soil.
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Wild flooding.—Water, released at high points, is allowed to flow onto an area

without controlled distribution.

Kame. An irregular, short ridge or hill of stratified glacial drift.

Karst (topography). The relief of an area underlain by limestone that dissolves in

differing degrees, thus forming numerous depressions or small basins.

Knoll. A small, low, rounded hill rising above adjacent landforms.

Lacustrine deposit. Material deposited in lake water and exposed when the water

level is lowered or the elevation of the land is raised.

Landslide. The rapid downhill movement of a mass of soil and loose rock, generally

when wet or saturated. The speed and distance of movement, as well as the

amount of soil and rock material, vary greatly.

Large stones (in tables). Rock fragments 3 inches (7.6 centimeters) or more across.

Large stones adversely affect the specified use of the soil.

Leaching. The removal of soluble material from soil or other material by percolating

water.

Lithochromic mottles. Mottles that have colors derived from the parent rocks.

Liquid limit. The moisture content at which the soil passes from a plastic to a liquid

state.

Loam. Soil material that is 7 to 27 percent clay particles, 28 to 50 percent silt

particles, and less than 52 percent sand particles.

Loess. Fine grained material, dominantly of silt-sized particles, deposited by wind.

Low-residue crops. Such crops as corn used for silage, peas, beans, and potatoes.

Residue from these crops is not adequate to control erosion until the next crop in

the rotation is established. These crops return little organic matter to the soil.

Low strength. The soil is not strong enough to support loads.

Marl. An earthy, unconsolidated deposit consisting chiefly of calcium carbonate mixed

with clay in approximately equal amounts.

Masses. Concentrations of substances in the soil matrix that do not have a clearly

defined boundary with the surrounding soil material and cannot be removed as a

discrete unit. Common compounds making up masses are calcium carbonate,

gypsum or other soluble salts, iron oxide, and manganese oxide. Masses

consisting of iron oxide or manganese oxide generally are considered a type of

redoximorphic concentration.

Mechanical treatment. Use of mechanical equipment for seeding, brush

management, and other management practices.

Medium textured soil. Very fine sandy loam, loam, silt loam, or silt.

Mesa. A broad, nearly flat topped and commonly isolated upland mass characterized

by summit widths that are more than the heights of bounding erosional scarps.

Metamorphic rock. Rock of any origin altered in mineralogical composition, chemical

composition, or structure by heat, pressure, and movement. Nearly all such rocks

are crystalline.

Mineral soil. Soil that is mainly mineral material and low in organic material. Its bulk

density is more than that of organic soil.

Mine soil. A relatively young soil formed in earthy materials in areas where coal has

been deep mined or surface mined.

Minimum tillage. Only the tillage essential to crop production and prevention of soil

damage.

Moderately coarse textured soil. Coarse sandy loam, sandy loam, or fine sandy

loam.

Moderately fine textured soil. Clay loam, sandy clay loam, or silty clay loam.

Mollic epipedon. A thick, dark, humus-rich surface horizon (or horizons) that has

high base saturation and pedogenic soil structure. It may include the upper part

of the subsoil.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

92

Moraine. An accumulation of earth, stones, and other debris deposited by a glacier.

Some types are terminal, lateral, medial, and ground.

Morphology, soil. The physical makeup of the soil, including the texture, structure,

porosity, consistence, color, and other physical, mineral, and biological properties

of the various horizons, and the thickness and arrangement of those horizons in

the soil profile.

Mottling, soil. Irregular spots of different colors that vary in number and size.

Descriptive terms are as follows: abundance—few, common, and many; size—

fine, medium, and coarse; and contrast—faint, distinct, and prominent. The size

measurements are of the diameter along the greatest dimension. Fine indicates

less than 5 millimeters (about 0.2 inch); medium, from 5 to 15 millimeters (about

0.2 to 0.6 inch); and coarse, more than 15 millimeters (about 0.6 inch).

Mountain. A natural elevation of the land surface, rising more than 1,000 feet above

surrounding lowlands, commonly of restricted summit area (relative to a plateau)

and generally having steep sides. A mountain can occur as a single, isolated

mass or in a group forming a chain or range.

Muck. Dark, finely divided, well decomposed organic soil material. (See Sapric soil

material.)

Mudstone. Sedimentary rock formed by induration of silt and clay in approximately

equal amounts.

Munsell notation. A designation of color by degrees of three simple variables—hue,

value, and chroma. For example, a notation of 10YR 6/4 is a color with hue of

10YR, value of 6, and chroma of 4.

Natric horizon. A special kind of argillic horizon that contains enough exchangeable

sodium to have an adverse effect on the physical condition of the subsoil.

Neutral soil. A soil having a pH value of 6.6 to 7.3. (See Reaction, soil.)

Nodules. Cemented bodies lacking visible internal structure. Calcium carbonate, iron

oxide, and manganese oxide are common compounds making up nodules. If

formed in place, nodules of iron oxide or manganese oxide are considered types

of redoximorphic concentrations.

Nutrient, plant. Any element taken in by a plant essential to its growth. Plant

nutrients are mainly nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium,

sulfur, iron, manganese, copper, boron, and zinc obtained from the soil and

carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen obtained from the air and water.

Organic matter. Plant and animal residue in the soil in various stages of

decomposition. The content of organic matter in the surface layer is described as

follows:

Very low ..................................... less than 0.5 percent

Low .................................................. 0.5 to 1.0 percent

Moderately low ................................ 1.0 to 2.0 percent

Moderate ......................................... 2.0 to 4.0 percent

High ................................................. 4.0 to 8.0 percent

Very high .................................. more than 8.0 percent

Outslope. The exposed area sloping down and away from the bench section of a

surface mine.

Outwash plain. A landform of mainly sandy or coarse textured material of

glaciofluvial origin. An outwash plain is commonly smooth; where pitted, it

generally is low in relief.

Pan. A compact, dense layer in a soil that impedes the movement of water and the

growth of roots. For example, hardpan, fragipan, claypan, plowpan, and traffic

pan.

Parent material. The unconsolidated organic and mineral material in which soil

forms.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

93

Peat. Unconsolidated material, largely undecomposed organic matter, that has

accumulated under excess moisture.

Ped. An individual natural soil aggregate, such as a granule, a prism, or a block.

Pedisediment. A thin layer of alluvial material that mantles an erosion surface and

has been transported to its present position from higher lying areas of the erosion

surface.

Pedon. The smallest volume that can be called “a soil.” A pedon is three dimensional

and large enough to permit study of all horizons. Its area ranges from about 10 to

100 square feet (1 square meter to 10 square meters), depending on the

variability of the soil.

Percolation. The downward movement of water through the soil.

Percs slowly (in tables). The slow movement of water through the soil adversely

affects the specified use.

Permafrost. Layers of soil, or even bedrock, occurring in arctic or subarctic regions,

in which a temperature below freezing has existed continuously for a long time.

Permeability. The quality of the soil that enables water or air to move downward

through the profile. The rate at which a saturated soil transmits water is accepted

as a measure of this quality. In soil physics, the rate is referred to as “saturated

hydraulic conductivity,” which is defined in the “Soil Survey Manual.” In line with

conventional usage in the engineering profession and with traditional usage in

published soil surveys, this rate of flow continues to be expressed as

“permeability.” Terms describing permeability, measured in inches per hour, are as

follows:

Extremely slow .................................... 0.0 to 0.01 inch

Very slow ...........................................0.01 to 0.06 inch

Slow .................................................... 0.06 to 0.2 inch

Moderately slow .................................... 0.2 to 0.6 inch

Moderate ................................... 0.6 inch to 2.0 inches

Moderately rapid ............................... 2.0 to 6.0 inches

Rapid .................................................. 6.0 to 20 inches

Very rapid ................................... more than 20 inches

Phase, soil. A subdivision of a soil series based on features that affect its use and

management, such as slope, stoniness, and flooding.

pH value. A numerical designation of acidity and alkalinity in soil. (See Reaction,

soil.)

Piping (in tables). Formation of subsurface tunnels or pipelike cavities by water

moving through the soil.

Pitting (in tables). Pits caused by melting around ice. They form on the soil after plant

cover is removed.

Plasticity index. The numerical difference between the liquid limit and the plastic

limit; the range of moisture content within which the soil remains plastic.

Plastic limit. The moisture content at which a soil changes from semisolid to plastic.

Plateau. An extensive upland mass with a relatively flat summit area that is

considerably elevated (more than 100 meters) above adjacent lowlands and

separated from them on one or more sides by escarpments.

Playa. The generally dry and nearly level lake plain that occupies the lowest parts of

closed depressional areas, such as those on intermontane basin floors.

Temporary flooding occurs primarily in response to precipitation and runoff.

Plinthite. The sesquioxide-rich, humus-poor, highly weathered mixture of clay with

quartz and other diluents. It commonly appears as red mottles, usually in platy,

polygonal, or reticulate patterns. Plinthite changes irreversibly to an ironstone

hardpan or to irregular aggregates on repeated wetting and drying, especially if it
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

94

is exposed also to heat from the sun. In a moist soil, plinthite can be cut with a

spade. It is a form of laterite.

Plowpan. A compacted layer formed in the soil directly below the plowed layer.

Ponding. Standing water on soils in closed depressions. Unless the soils are

artificially drained, the water can be removed only by percolation or

evapotranspiration.

Poor filter (in tables). Because of rapid or very rapid permeability, the soil may not

adequately filter effluent from a waste disposal system.

Poorly graded. Refers to a coarse grained soil or soil material consisting mainly of

particles of nearly the same size. Because there is little difference in size of the

particles, density can be increased only slightly by compaction.

Poor outlets (in tables). Refers to areas where surface or subsurface drainage

outlets are difficult or expensive to install.

Potential native plant community. See Climax plant community.

Potential rooting depth (effective rooting depth). Depth to which roots could

penetrate if the content of moisture in the soil were adequate. The soil has no

properties restricting the penetration of roots to this depth.

Prescribed burning. Deliberately burning an area for specific management

purposes, under the appropriate conditions of weather and soil moisture and at

the proper time of day.

Productivity, soil. The capability of a soil for producing a specified plant or sequence

of plants under specific management.

Profile, soil. A vertical section of the soil extending through all its horizons and into

the parent material.

Proper grazing use. Grazing at an intensity that maintains enough cover to protect

the soil and maintain or improve the quantity and quality of the desirable

vegetation. This practice increases the vigor and reproduction capacity of the key

plants and promotes the accumulation of litter and mulch necessary to conserve

soil and water.

Range condition. The present composition of the plant community on a range site in

relation to the potential natural plant community for that site. Range condition is

expressed as excellent, good, fair, or poor on the basis of how much the present

plant community has departed from the potential.

Rangeland. Land on which the potential natural vegetation is predominantly grasses,

grasslike plants, forbs, or shrubs suitable for grazing or browsing. It includes

natural grasslands, savannas, many wetlands, some deserts, tundras, and areas

that support certain forb and shrub communities.

Range site. An area of rangeland where climate, soil, and relief are sufficiently

uniform to produce a distinct natural plant community. A range site is the product

of all the environmental factors responsible for its development. It is typified by an

association of species that differ from those on other range sites in kind or

proportion of species or total production.

Reaction, soil. A measure of acidity or alkalinity of a soil, expressed in pH values. A

soil that tests to pH 7.0 is described as precisely neutral in reaction because it is

neither acid nor alkaline. The degrees of acidity or alkalinity, expressed as pH

values, are:

Ultra acid ................................................. less than 3.5

Extremely acid ..............................................3.5 to 4.4

Very strongly acid .........................................4.5 to 5.0

Strongly acid .................................................5.1 to 5.5

Moderately acid ............................................5.6 to 6.0

Slightly acid ...................................................6.1 to 6.5

Neutral...........................................................6.6 to 7.3

Slightly alkaline .............................................7.4 to 7.8
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95

Moderately alkaline ......................................7.9 to 8.4

Strongly alkaline ...........................................8.5 to 9.0

Very strongly alkaline .......................... 9.1 and higher

Red beds. Sedimentary strata that are mainly red and are made up largely of

sandstone and shale.

Redoximorphic concentrations. Nodules, concretions, soft masses, pore linings,

and other features resulting from the accumulation of iron or manganese oxide.

An indication of chemical reduction and oxidation resulting from saturation.

Redoximorphic depletions. Low-chroma zones from which iron and manganese

oxide or a combination of iron and manganese oxide and clay has been removed.

These zones are indications of the chemical reduction of iron resulting from

saturation.

Redoximorphic features. Redoximorphic concentrations, redoximorphic depletions,

reduced matrices, a positive reaction to alpha,alpha-dipyridyl, and other features

indicating the chemical reduction and oxidation of iron and manganese

compounds resulting from saturation.

Reduced matrix. A soil matrix that has low chroma in situ because of chemically

reduced iron (Fe II). The chemical reduction results from nearly continuous

wetness. The matrix undergoes a change in hue or chroma within 30 minutes

after exposure to air as the iron is oxidized (Fe III). A type of redoximorphic

feature.

Regolith. The unconsolidated mantle of weathered rock and soil material on the

Earth’s surface; the loose earth material above the solid rock.

Relief. The elevations or inequalities of a land surface, considered collectively.

Residuum (residual soil material). Unconsolidated, weathered or partly weathered

mineral material that accumulated as consolidated rock disintegrated in place.

Rill. A steep-sided channel resulting from accelerated erosion. A rill generally is a few

inches deep and not wide enough to be an obstacle to farm machinery.

Road cut. A sloping surface produced by mechanical means during road

construction. It is commonly on the uphill side of the road.

Rock fragments. Rock or mineral fragments having a diameter of 2 millimeters or

more; for example, pebbles, cobbles, stones, and boulders.

Rooting depth (in tables). Shallow root zone. The soil is shallow over a layer that

greatly restricts roots.

Root zone. The part of the soil that can be penetrated by plant roots.

Runoff. The precipitation discharged into stream channels from an area. The water

that flows off the surface of the land without sinking into the soil is called surface

runoff. Water that enters the soil before reaching surface streams is called

ground-water runoff or seepage flow from ground water.

Saline soil. A soil containing soluble salts in an amount that impairs growth of plants.

A saline soil does not contain excess exchangeable sodium.

Salty water (in tables). Water that is too salty for consumption by livestock.

Sand. As a soil separate, individual rock or mineral fragments from 0.05 millimeter to

2.0 millimeters in diameter. Most sand grains consist of quartz. As a soil textural

class, a soil that is 85 percent or more sand and not more than 10 percent clay.

Sandstone. Sedimentary rock containing dominantly sand-sized particles.

Saprolite. Unconsolidated residual material underlying the soil and grading to hard

bedrock below.

Saturation. Wetness characterized by zero or positive pressure of the soil water.

Under conditions of saturation, the water will flow from the soil matrix into an

unlined auger hole.

Scarification. The act of abrading, scratching, loosening, crushing, or modifying the

surface to increase water absorption or to provide a more tillable soil.
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96

Second bottom. The first terrace above the normal flood plain (or first bottom) of a

river.

Sedimentary rock. Rock made up of particles deposited from suspension in water.

The chief kinds of sedimentary rock are conglomerate, formed from gravel;

sandstone, formed from sand; shale, formed from clay; and limestone, formed

from soft masses of calcium carbonate. There are many intermediate types.

Some wind-deposited sand is consolidated into sandstone.

Seepage (in tables). The movement of water through the soil. Seepage adversely

affects the specified use.

Sequum. A sequence consisting of an illuvial horizon and the overlying eluvial

horizon. (See Eluviation.)

Series, soil. A group of soils that have profiles that are almost alike, except for

differences in texture of the surface layer. All the soils of a series have horizons

that are similar in composition, thickness, and arrangement.

Shale. Sedimentary rock formed by the hardening of a clay deposit.

Sheet erosion. The removal of a fairly uniform layer of soil material from the land

surface by the action of rainfall and surface runoff.

Shrink-swell (in tables). The shrinking of soil when dry and the swelling when wet.

Shrinking and swelling can damage roads, dams, building foundations, and other

structures. It can also damage plant roots.

Silica. A combination of silicon and oxygen. The mineral form is called quartz.

Silica-sesquioxide ratio. The ratio of the number of molecules of silica to the

number of molecules of alumina and iron oxide. The more highly weathered soils

or their clay fractions in warm-temperate, humid regions, and especially those in

the tropics, generally have a low ratio.

Silt. As a soil separate, individual mineral particles that range in diameter from the

upper limit of clay (0.002 millimeter) to the lower limit of very fine sand

(0.05 millimeter). As a soil textural class, soil that is 80 percent or more silt and

less than 12 percent clay.

Siltstone. Sedimentary rock made up of dominantly silt-sized particles.

Silviculture. A branch of forestry dealing with the maintenance and development of

forests for the sustained production of forest products.

Similar soils. Soils that share limits of diagnostic criteria, behave and perform in a

similar manner, and have similar conservation needs or management

requirements for the major land uses in the survey area.

Sinkhole. A depression in the landscape where limestone has been dissolved.

Site index. A designation of the quality of a forest site based on the height of the

dominant stand at an arbitrarily chosen age. For example, if the average height

attained by dominant and codominant trees in a fully stocked stand at the age of

50 years is 75 feet, the site index is 75.

Slickensides. Polished and grooved surfaces produced by one mass sliding past

another. In soils, slickensides may occur at the bases of slip surfaces on the

steeper slopes; on faces of blocks, prisms, and columns; and in swelling clayey

soils, where there is marked change in moisture content.

Slick spot. A small area of soil having a puddled, crusted, or smooth surface and an

excess of exchangeable sodium. The soil generally is silty or clayey, is slippery

when wet, and is low in productivity.

Slippage (in tables). Soil mass susceptible to movement downslope when loaded,

excavated, or wet.

Slope. The inclination of the land surface from the horizontal. Percentage of slope is

the vertical distance divided by horizontal distance, then multiplied by 100. Thus,

a slope of 20 percent is a drop of 20 feet in 100 feet of horizontal distance. In this

survey, classes for simple slopes are as follows:
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97

Nearly level ........................................... 0 to 3 percent

Gently sloping ....................................... 3 to 8 percent

Strongly sloping .................................. 8 to 15 percent

Moderately steep .............................. 15 to 25 percent

Steep ................................................. 25 to 35 percent

Very steep ................................ 35 percent and higher

Slope (in tables). Slope is great enough that special practices are required to ensure

satisfactory performance of the soil for a specific use.

Sloughed till. Water-saturated till that has flowed slowly downhill from its original

place of deposit by glacial ice. It may rest on other till, on glacial outwash, or on a

glaciolacustrine deposit.

Slow intake (in tables). The slow movement of water into the soil.

Slow refill (in tables). The slow filling of ponds, resulting from restricted permeability

in the soil.

Small stones (in tables). Rock fragments less than 3 inches (7.6 centimeters) in

diameter. Small stones adversely affect the specified use of the soil.

Sodic (alkali) soil. A soil having so high a degree of alkalinity (pH 8.5 or higher) or

so high a percentage of exchangeable sodium (15 percent or more of the total

exchangeable bases), or both, that plant growth is restricted.

Sodicity. The degree to which a soil is affected by exchangeable sodium. Sodicity is

expressed as a sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) of a saturation extract, or the ratio

of Na+ to Ca++ + Mg++. The degrees of sodicity and their respective ratios are:

Slight ..................................................... less than 13:1

Moderate ......................................................... 13-30:1

Strong.................................................. more than 30:1

Soft bedrock. Bedrock that can be excavated with trenching machines, backhoes,

small rippers, and other equipment commonly used in construction.

Soil. A natural, three-dimensional body at the Earth’s surface. It is capable of

supporting plants and has properties resulting from the integrated effect of

climate and living matter acting on earthy parent material, as conditioned by relief

over periods of time.

Soil separates. Mineral particles less than 2 millimeters in equivalent diameter and

ranging between specified size limits. The names and sizes, in millimeters, of

separates recognized in the United States are as follows:

Very coarse sand ..........................................2.0 to 1.0

Coarse sand .................................................1.0 to 0.5

Medium sand ............................................. 0.5 to 0.25

Fine sand ................................................. 0.25 to 0.10

Very fine sand .......................................... 0.10 to 0.05

Silt .......................................................... 0.05 to 0.002

Clay ..................................................... less than 0.002

Solum. The upper part of a soil profile, above the C horizon, in which the processes

of soil formation are active. The solum in soil consists of the A, E, and B horizons.

Generally, the characteristics of the material in these horizons are unlike those of

the material below the solum. The living roots and plant and animal activities are

largely confined to the solum.

Stone line. A concentration of coarse fragments in a soil. Generally, it is indicative of

an old weathered surface. In a cross section, the line may be one fragment or

more thick. It generally overlies material that weathered in place and is overlain

by recent sediment of variable thickness.

Stones. Rock fragments 10 to 24 inches (25 to 60 centimeters) in diameter if rounded

or 15 to 24 inches (38 to 60 centimeters) in length if flat.
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98

Stony. Refers to a soil containing stones in numbers that interfere with or prevent

tillage.

Stripcropping. Growing crops in a systematic arrangement of strips or bands that

provide vegetative barriers to wind erosion and water erosion.

Structure, soil. The arrangement of primary soil particles into compound particles or

aggregates. The principal forms of soil structure are—platy (laminated), prismatic

(vertical axis of aggregates longer than horizontal), columnar (prisms with

rounded tops), blocky (angular or subangular), and granular. Structureless soils

are either single grain (each grain by itself, as in dune sand) or massive (the

particles adhering without any regular cleavage, as in many hardpans).

Stubble mulch. Stubble or other crop residue left on the soil or partly worked into the

soil. It protects the soil from wind erosion and water erosion after harvest, during

preparation of a seedbed for the next crop, and during the early growing period of

the new crop.

Subsoil. Technically, the B horizon; roughly, the part of the solum below plow depth.

Subsoiling. Tilling a soil below normal plow depth, ordinarily to shatter a hardpan or

claypan.

Substratum. The part of the soil below the solum.

Summer fallow. The tillage of uncropped land during the summer to control weeds

and allow storage of moisture in the soil for the growth of a later crop. A practice

common in semiarid regions, where annual precipitation is not enough to produce

a crop every year. Summer fallow is frequently practiced before planting winter

grain.

Surface layer. The soil ordinarily moved in tillage, or its equivalent in uncultivated

soil, ranging in depth from 4 to 10 inches (10 to 25 centimeters). Frequently

designated as the “plow layer,” or the “Ap horizon.”

Surface soil. The A, E, AB, and EB horizons, considered collectively. It includes all

subdivisions of these horizons.

Talus. Fragments of rock and other soil material accumulated by gravity at the foot of

cliffs or steep slopes.

Terminal moraine. A belt of thick glacial drift that generally marks the termination of

important glacial advances.

Terrace. An embankment, or ridge, constructed across sloping soils on the contour or

at a slight angle to the contour. The terrace intercepts surface runoff so that water

soaks into the soil or flows slowly to a prepared outlet. A terrace in a field

generally is built so that the field can be farmed. A terrace intended mainly for

drainage has a deep channel that is maintained in permanent sod.

Terrace (geologic). An old alluvial plain, ordinarily flat or undulating, bordering a river,

a lake, or the sea.

Texture, soil. The relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay particles in a mass of

soil. The basic textural classes, in order of increasing proportion of fine particles,

are sand, loamy sand, sandy loam, loam, silt loam, silt, sandy clay loam, clay

loam, silty clay loam, sandy clay, silty clay, and clay. The sand, loamy sand, and

sandy loam classes may be further divided by specifying “coarse,” “fine,” or “very

fine.”

Thin layer (in tables). Otherwise suitable soil material that is too thin for the specified

use.

Till plain. An extensive area of nearly level to undulating soils underlain by glacial till.

Tilth, soil. The physical condition of the soil as related to tillage, seedbed

preparation, seedling emergence, and root penetration.

Toeslope. The outermost inclined surface at the base of a hill; part of a footslope.

Too arid (in tables). The soil is dry most of the time, and vegetation is difficult to

establish.
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99

Topsoil. The upper part of the soil, which is the most favorable material for plant

growth. It is ordinarily rich in organic matter and is used to topdress roadbanks,

lawns, and land affected by mining.

Toxicity (in tables). Excessive amount of toxic substances, such as sodium or sulfur,

that severely hinder establishment of vegetation or severely restrict plant growth.

Trace elements. Chemical elements, for example, zinc, cobalt, manganese, copper,

and iron, in soils in extremely small amounts. They are essential to plant growth.

Tuff. A compacted deposit that is 50 percent or more volcanic ash and dust.

Unstable fill (in tables). Risk of caving or sloughing on banks of fill material.

Upland. Land at a higher elevation, in general, than the alluvial plain or stream

terrace; land above the lowlands along streams.

Valley fill. In glaciated regions, material deposited in stream valleys by glacial

meltwater. In nonglaciated regions, alluvium deposited by heavily loaded streams.

Variegation. Refers to patterns of contrasting colors assumed to be inherited from

the parent material rather than to be the result of poor drainage.

Varve. A sedimentary layer or a lamina or sequence of laminae deposited in a body

of still water within a year. Specifically, a thin pair of graded glaciolacustrine layers

seasonally deposited, usually by meltwater streams, in a glacial lake or other

body of still water in front of a glacier.

Water bars. Smooth, shallow ditches or depressional areas that are excavated at an

angle across a sloping road. They are used to reduce the downward velocity of

water and divert it off and away from the road surface. Water bars can easily be

driven over if constructed properly.

Weathering. All physical and chemical changes produced in rocks or other deposits

at or near the Earth’s surface by atmospheric agents. These changes result in

disintegration and decomposition of the material.

Well graded. Refers to soil material consisting of coarse grained particles that are

well distributed over a wide range in size or diameter. Such soil normally can be

easily increased in density and bearing properties by compaction. Contrasts with

poorly graded soil.

Wilting point (or permanent wilting point). The moisture content of soil, on an

ovendry basis, at which a plant (specifically a sunflower) wilts so much that it

does not recover when placed in a humid, dark chamber.

Windthrow. The uprooting and tipping over of trees by the wind.

101

Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

Tables
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

102

Table 1.--Temperature and Precipitation

(Temperature data recorded in the period 1964-90 at the Corton Weather Station and precipitation data

 recorded in the period 1961-90 at Clay, West Virginia)

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 | |

 | Temperature | Precipitation

 |_________________________________________________________|_____________________________________

 | | | | 2 years in | | |2 years in 10|Average|

 | | | | 10 will have-- | Average | | will have-- |number | _______________________ _____________

 Month |Average|Average|Average| | |number of|Average| | |of days|Average

 | daily | daily | | Maximum | Minimum | growing | | Less | More | with | snow-

 |maximum|minimum| |temperature|temperature| degree | |than--|than--| 0.10 | fall

 | | | | higher | lower | days* | | | |inch or|

 | | | | than-- | than-- | | | | | more |

_________|_______|_______|_______|___________|___________|_________|_______|______|______|_______|_______

 | o | o | o | o | o | | | | | |

 | F | F | F | F | F | Units | In | In | In | | In

 | | | | | | | | | | |

January--| 42.7 | 22.1 | 32.4 | 71 | -9 | 47 | 3.24 | 2.00 | 4.36 | 8 | 10.8

 | | | | | | | | | | |

February-| 47.3 | 23.6 | 35.4 | 75 | -4 | 69 | 3.08 | 1.93 | 4.11 | 8 | 7.3

 | | | | | | | | | | |

March----| 59.5 | 31.3 | 45.4 | 84 | 7 | 225 | 3.94 | 2.69 | 5.08 | 8 | 2.6

 | | | | | | | | | | |

April----| 69.8 | 39.4 | 54.6 | 89 | 19 | 434 | 3.97 | 2.60 | 5.22 | 9 | .5

 | | | | | | | | | | |

May------| 77.9 | 48.5 | 63.2 | 91 | 27 | 718 | 4.29 | 2.63 | 5.78 | 8 | .0

 | | | | | | | | | | |

June-----| 83.3 | 57.1 | 70.2 | 94 | 38 | 889 | 3.77 | 2.23 | 5.14 | 8 | .0

 | | | | | | | | | | |

July-----| 86.4 | 62.4 | 74.4 | 97 | 47 | 1,042 | 4.57 | 3.13 | 5.89 | 8 | .0

 | | | | | | | | | | |

August---| 84.8 | 61.3 | 73.1 | 95 | 46 | 1,013 | 4.48 | 3.00 | 5.84 | 7 | .0

 | | | | | | | | | | |

September| 79.2 | 55.2 | 67.2 | 92 | 36 | 808 | 3.72 | 2.30 | 4.99 | 6 | .0

 | | | | | | | | | | |

October--| 69.0 | 43.6 | 56.3 | 84 | 23 | 496 | 3.14 | 1.64 | 4.45 | 6 | .2

 | | | | | | | | | | |

November-| 58.7 | 34.8 | 46.7 | 80 | 13 | 237 | 3.73 | 2.30 | 5.01 | 8 | .7

 | | | | | | | | | | |

December-| 48.7 | 27.6 | 38.2 | 75 | 3 | 102 | 3.71 | 2.19 | 5.06 | 8 | 4.3

 | | | | | | | | | | |

 | | | | | | | | | | |

Yearly: | | | | | | | | | | |

 | | | | | | | | | | |

 Average| 67.3 | 42.3 | 54.8 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | | | | | | |

 Extreme| --- | --- | --- | 97 | -9 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | | | | | | |

 Total--| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | 6,082 | 45.62 |40.41 |50.67 | 92 | 26.4

_________|_______|_______|_______|___________|___________|_________|_______|______|______|_______|_______

 * A growing degree day is a unit of heat available for plant growth. It can be calculated by adding

the maximum and minimum daily temperatures, dividing the sum by 2, and subtracting the temperature below

which growth is minimal for the principal crops in the area (40 degrees F).
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

103

Table 2.--Freeze Dates in Spring and Fall

(Recorded in the period 1964-90 at the Corton Weather Station

 in West Virginia)

______________________________________________________________

 |

 | Temperature

 |__________________________________________

 Probability | 24o F | 28o F | 32o F

 | or lower | or lower | or lower

___________________|______________|_____________|_____________

 | | |

 Last freezing | | |

 temperature | | |

 in spring: | | |

 | | |

 1 year in 10 | | |

 later than | Apr. 20 | May 9 | May 20

 | | |

 2 years in 10 | | |

 later than | Apr. 15 | May 4 | May 14

 | | |

 5 years in 10 | | |

 later than | Apr. 5 | Apr. 23 | May 4

 | | |

 First freezing | | |

 temperature | | |

 in fall: | | |

 | | |

 1 year in 10 | | |

 earlier than | Oct. 17 | Oct. 8 | Sept. 29

 | | |

 2 years in 10 | | |

 earlier than | Oct. 23 | Oct. 13 | Oct. 5

 | | |

 5 years in 10 | | |

 earlier than | Nov. 4 | Oct. 25 | Oct. 18

___________________|______________|_____________|_____________

Table 3.--Growing Season

(Recorded in the period 1964-90 at the Corton

 Weather Station in West Virginia)

__________________________________________________

 |

 | Daily minimum temperature

 | during growing season

 |___________________________________

 Probability | Higher | Higher | Higher

 | than | than | than

 | 24o F | 28o F | 32o F

______________|____________|___________|__________

 | Days | Days | Days

 | | |

9 years in 10 | 186 | 160 | 141

 | | |

8 years in 10 | 194 | 167 | 150

 | | |

5 years in 10 | 210 | 181 | 167

 | | |

2 years in 10 | 226 | 195 | 185

 | | |

1 year in 10 | 234 | 202 | 194

______________|____________|___________|__________
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

104

Table 4.--Acreage and Proportionate Extent of the Soils

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 | | |

 Map | Soil name | Acres |Percent

symbol | | |

_______|_________________________________________________________________________|____________|________

 | | |

AgB |Allegheny loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes------------------------------------| 68 | *

CeF |Cedarcreek very channery loam, very steep, very stony--------------------| 247 | 0.1

Ch |Chavies fine sandy loam--------------------------------------------------| 1,299 | 0.6

FpF |Fairpoint channery loam, very steep, very stony--------------------------| 1,467 | 0.7

GaF |Gilpin silt loam, 35 to 70 percent slopes, very stony--------------------| 3,021 | 1.4

GuC |Gilpin-Upshur complex, 8 to 15 percent slopes----------------------------| 281 | 0.1

GuD |Gilpin-Upshur complex, 15 to 25 percent slopes---------------------------| 6,200 | 2.8

GuE |Gilpin-Upshur complex, 25 to 35 percent slopes---------------------------| 6,899 | 3.1

GxF |Gilpin-Upshur complex, 35 to 70 percent slopes, very stony---------------| 32,002 | 14.4

GyC |Gilpin and Lily soils, 8 to 15 percent slopes----------------------------| 629 | 0.3

GyD |Gilpin and Lily soils, 15 to 25 percent slopes---------------------------| 12,831 | 5.8

GyE |Gilpin and Lily soils, 25 to 35 percent slopes---------------------------| 6,010 | 2.7

ItF |Itmann channery clay loam, very steep------------------------------------| 219 | *

LaE |Laidig channery loam, 15 to 35 percent slopes, extremely stony-----------| 10,110 | 4.6

PGF |Pineville-Gilpin-Laidig association, very steep, extremely stony---------| 130,884 | 59.0

Po |Pope sandy loam----------------------------------------------------------| 1,145 | 0.5

Px |Pope-Craigsville complex-------------------------------------------------| 2,837 | 1.3

Ss |Sensabaugh silt loam-----------------------------------------------------| 1,301 | 0.6

Ud |Udorthents, smoothed-----------------------------------------------------| 733 | 0.3

VaD |Vandalia silt loam, 15 to 25 percent slopes------------------------------| 328 | 0.1

VaE |Vandalia silt loam, 25 to 35 percent slopes------------------------------| 2,267 | 1.0

W |Water--------------------------------------------------------------------| 922 | 0.4

 | |____________|________

 | Total---------------------------------------------------------------| 221,700 | 100.0

_______|_________________________________________________________________________|____________|________

 * Less than 0.1 percent.
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

105

Table 5.—Land Capability and Yields per Acre of Crops and Pasture

(Yields are those that can be expected under a high level of management. They are for nonirrigated

 areas. Absence of a yield indicates that the soil is not suited to the crop or the crop

 generally is not grown on the soil)

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 | | | | | |

 Map symbol | Land |Alfalfa hay | Corn |Grass-legume| Kentucky | Wheat

 and soil name | capability | | | hay | bluegrass |

_________________________|____________|____________|____________|____________|____________|____________

 | | Tons | Bu | Tons | AUM | Bu

 | | | | | |

AgB----------------------| 2e | 5.00 | 115.00 | 3.50 | 5.00 | 45.00

 Allegheny | | | | | |

 | | | | | |

CeF----------------------| 7s | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---

 Cedarcreek | | | | | |

 | | | | | |

Ch-----------------------| 1 | 5.50 | 120.00 | 4.00 | 5.50 | 50.00

 Chavies | | | | | |

 | | | | | |

FpF----------------------| 7s | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---

 Fairpoint | | | | | |

 | | | | | |

GaF----------------------| 7s | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---

 Gilpin | | | | | |

 | | | | | |

GuC: | | | | | |

 Gilpin------------------| 3e | 3.50 | 85.00 | 3.00 | 4.50 | 35.00

 | | | | | |

 Upshur------------------| 4e | 4.00 | 90.00 | 3.00 | 4.50 | 35.00

 | | | | | |

GuD: | | | | | |

 Gilpin------------------| 4e | 3.00 | 80.00 | 2.50 | 4.00 | 30.00

 | | | | | |

 Upshur------------------| 6e | --- | 75.00 | --- | 4.00 | 30.00

 | | | | | |

GuE: | | | | | |

 Gilpin------------------| 6e | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | |

 Upshur------------------| 7e | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | |

GxF: | | | | | |

 Gilpin------------------| 7s | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | |

 Upshur------------------| 7s | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | |

GyC: | | | | | |

 Gilpin------------------| 3e | 3.50 | 85.00 | 3.00 | 4.50 | 35.00

 | | | | | |

 Lily--------------------| 3e | --- | 85.00 | 3.00 | --- | 35.00

 | | | | | |

GyD: | | | | | |

 Gilpin------------------| 4e | 3.00 | 80.00 | 2.50 | 4.00 | 30.00

 | | | | | |

 Lily--------------------| 4e | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | |

GyE: | | | | | |

 Gilpin------------------| 6e | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | |

 Lily--------------------| 6e | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | |

ItF----------------------| 7s | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---

 Itmann | | | | | |

 | | | | | |

LaE----------------------| 7s | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---

 Laidig | | | | | |

 | | | | | |

PGF: | | | | | |

 Pineville---------------| 7s | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | |
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

106

Table 5.—Land Capability and Yields per Acre of Crops and Pasture--Continued

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 | | | | | |

 Map symbol | Land |Alfalfa hay | Corn |Grass-legume| Kentucky | Wheat

 and soil name | capability | | | hay | bluegrass |

_________________________|____________|____________|____________|____________|____________|____________

 | | Tons | Bu | Tons | AUM | Bu

 | | | | | |

PGF: | | | | | |

 Gilpin------------------| 7s | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | |

 Laidig------------------| 7s | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | |

Po-----------------------| 2w | 4.50 | 110.00 | 3.00 | 4.50 | 40.00

 Pope | | | | | |

 | | | | | |

Px: | | | | | |

 Pope--------------------| 2w | 2.50 | 80.00 | 3.00 | 3.50 | 30.00

 | | | | | |

 Craigsville-------------| 2w | 2.50 | 80.00 | 2.00 | 4.50 | 35.00

 | | | | | |

Ss-----------------------| 2w | 5.50 | 125.00 | 4.00 | 5.50 | 50.00

 Sensabaugh | | | | | |

 | | | | | |

Ud-----------------------| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---

 Udorthents | | | | | |

 | | | | | |

VaD----------------------| 4e | 4.00 | 90.00 | 2.50 | 4.00 | 30.00

 Vandalia | | | | | |

 | | | | | |

VaE----------------------| 6e | --- | --- | --- | 3.50 | ---

 Vandalia | | | | | |

_________________________|____________|____________|____________|____________|____________|____________
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

107

Table 6.--Acreage by Capability Class

and Subclass

____________________________________________

 | |

 Capability | Capability | Acreage

 class | subclass |

______________|______________|______________

 | |

 Unclassified | --- | 5,578

 1 | --- | 1,299

 2 | e | 68

 2 | w | 5,283

 3 | e | 769

 4 | e | 16,033

 6 | e | 12,552

 7 | e | 2,415

 7 | s | 177,703

______________|______________|______________

Table 7.--Prime Farmland

(Only the soils considered prime farmland are listed. Urban

 or built-up areas of the soils listed are not considered

 prime farmland)

_________________________________________________________________

 |

 Map | Soil name

 symbol |

________|________________________________________________________

 |

 AgB |Allegheny loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes

 Ch |Chavies fine sandy loam

 Po |Pope sandy loam

 Px |Pope-Craigsville complex

 Ss |Sensabaugh silt loam

________|________________________________________________________
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

108

Table 8.--Woodland Management and Productivity

(Only the soils suitable for production of commercial trees are listed. Absence of an

 entry indicates that information was not available)

_______________________________________________________________________________________

 | Management concerns | Potential productivity

 |___________________________________|__________________________________

 Soil name and | | Equip- | | | | |

 map symbol |Erosion | ment |Seedling| Plant | Common trees |Site |Volume

 |hazard | limita-|mortal- |competi-| |index|of wood

 | | tion | ity | tion | | | fiber

________________|________|________|________|________|____________________|_____|_______

 | | | | | | |

 | | | | | | | m3/ha

 | | | | | | |

AgB-------------|Slight |Slight |Slight |Severe |Northern red oak----| 80 | 4

 Allegheny | | | | |Yellow-poplar-------| 93 | 7

 | | | | |Black oak-----------| 78 | 4

 | | | | |Shortleaf pine------| 80 | 9

 | | | | |Virginia pine-------| 72 | 8

 | | | | |Red maple-----------| --- | ---

 | | | | |Sugar maple---------| --- | ---

 | | | | |Pignut hickory------| --- | ---

 | | | | |White ash-----------| --- | ---

 | | | | |American elm--------| --- | ---

 | | | | | | |

CeF-------------|Severe |Severe |Severe |Moderate|Northern red oak----| 80 | 4

 Cedarcreek | | | | |American sycamore---| 90 | 7

 | | | | |Black locust--------| --- | ---

 | | | | |Eastern white pine--| 94 | 12

 | | | | |Tuliptree-----------| 105 | 8

 | | | | | | |

Ch--------------|Slight |Slight |Slight |Severe |Northern red oak----| 80 | ---

 Chavies | | | | |American sycamore---| --- | ---

 | | | | |Black cherry--------| --- | ---

 | | | | |Black walnut--------| --- | ---

 | | | | |Hickory-------------| --- | ---

 | | | | |Red maple-----------| --- | ---

 | | | | |Shortleaf pine------| 76 | 8

 | | | | |Sugar maple---------| --- | ---

 | | | | |Tuliptree-----------| 93 | 7

 | | | | |White oak-----------| --- | ---

 | | | | | | |

FpF-------------|Severe |Severe |Severe |Moderate|--------------------| --- | ---

 Fairpoint | | | | | | |

 | | | | | | |

GaF-------------|Severe |Severe |Slight |Moderate|Northern red oak----| 80 | 4

 Gilpin | | | | |Tuliptree-----------| 95 | 7

 | | | | | | |

GuC: | | | | | | |

 Gilpin---------|Slight |Slight |Slight |Moderate|Northern red oak----| 80 | 4

 | | | | |Tuliptree-----------| 95 | 7

 | | | | | | |

 Upshur---------|Moderate|Moderate|Slight |Moderate|Northern red oak----| 65 | 3

 | | | | |Virginia pine-------| 66 | 7

 | | | | |Eastern white pine--| 80 | 10

 | | | | |Tuliptree-----------| 80 | 5

 | | | | | | |

GuD: | | | | | | |

 Gilpin---------|Moderate|Moderate|Moderate|Moderate|Northern red oak----| 80 | 4

 | | | | |Tuliptree-----------| 95 | 7

 | | | | | | |

 Upshur---------|Moderate|Severe |Slight |Moderate|Northern red oak----| 70 | 4

 | | | | |Virginia pine-------| 70 | 8

 | | | | |Eastern white pine--| 90 | 12

 | | | | |Tuliptree-----------| 90 | 6

 | | | | | | |

GuE: | | | | | | |

 Gilpin---------|Moderate|Moderate|Moderate|Moderate|Northern red oak----| 80 | 4

 | | | | |Tuliptree-----------| 95 | 7

 | | | | | | |
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

109

Table 8.--Woodland Management and Productivity--Continued

_______________________________________________________________________________________

 | Management concerns | Potential productivity

 |___________________________________|__________________________________

 Soil name and | | Equip- | | | | |

 map symbol |Erosion | ment |Seedling| Plant | Common trees |Site |Volume

 |hazard | limita-|mortal- |competi-| |index|of wood

 | | tion | ity | tion | | | fiber

________________|________|________|________|________|____________________|_____|_______

 | | | | | | |

 | | | | | | | m3/ha

 | | | | | | |

GuE: | | | | | | |

 Upshur---------|Severe |Severe |Slight |Moderate|Northern red oak----| 70 | 4

 | | | | |Virginia pine-------| 70 | 8

 | | | | |Eastern white pine--| 90 | 12

 | | | | |Tuliptree-----------| 90 | 6

 | | | | | | |

GxF: | | | | | | |

 Gilpin---------|Severe |Severe |Slight |Moderate|Northern red oak----| 80 | 4

 | | | | |Tuliptree-----------| 95 | 7

 | | | | | | |

 Upshur---------|Severe |Severe |Slight |Moderate|Northern red oak----| 70 | 4

 | | | | |Virginia pine-------| 70 | 8

 | | | | |Eastern white pine--| 90 | 12

 | | | | |Tuliptree-----------| 90 | 6

 | | | | | | |

GyC: | | | | | | |

 Gilpin---------|Slight |Slight |Slight |Moderate|Northern red oak----| 80 | 4

 | | | | |Tuliptree-----------| 95 | 7

 | | | | | | |

 Lily-----------|Slight |Slight |Slight |Moderate|Northern red oak----| 78 | ---

 | | | | |Virginia pine-------| 80 | 8

 | | | | |Black oak-----------| 78 | ---

 | | | | |Chestnut oak--------| 73 | ---

 | | | | |Scarlet oak---------| 77 | 3

 | | | | |Shortleaf pine------| 63 | 7

 | | | | |Tuliptree-----------| 95 | ---

 | | | | |White oak-----------| 73 | 4

 | | | | | | |

GyD: | | | | | | |

 Gilpin---------|Moderate|Moderate|Slight |Moderate|Northern red oak----| 80 | 4

 | | | | |Tuliptree-----------| 95 | 7

 | | | | | | |

 Lily-----------|Moderate|Moderate|Slight |Moderate|Northern red oak----| 78 | ---

 | | | | |Virginia pine-------| 80 | 8

 | | | | |Black oak-----------| 78 | ---

 | | | | |Chestnut oak--------| 73 | ---

 | | | | |Scarlet oak---------| 77 | 3

 | | | | |Shortleaf pine------| 63 | 7

 | | | | |Tuliptree-----------| 95 | ---

 | | | | |White oak-----------| 73 | 4

 | | | | | | |

GyE: | | | | | | |

 Gilpin---------|Moderate|Moderate|Slight |Moderate|Northern red oak----| 80 | 4

 | | | | |Tuliptree-----------| 95 | 7

 | | | | | | |

 Lily-----------|Moderate|Moderate|Slight |Moderate|Northern red oak----| 78 | ---

 | | | | |Virginia pine-------| 80 | 8

 | | | | |Black oak-----------| 78 | ---

 | | | | |Chestnut oak--------| 73 | ---

 | | | | |Scarlet oak---------| 77 | 3

 | | | | |Shortleaf pine------| 63 | 7

 | | | | |Tuliptree-----------| 95 | ---

 | | | | |White oak-----------| 73 | 4

 | | | | | | |

ItF-------------|Severe |Severe |Severe |Slight |Virginia pine-------| --- | ---

 Itmann | | | | |Black locust--------| --- | ---

 | | | | |Eastern white pine--| --- | ---

 | | | | |Red maple-----------| --- | ---

 | | | | |Shortleaf pine------| --- | ---

 | | | | |Sweet birch---------| --- | ---

 | | | | | | |
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

110

Table 8.--Woodland Management and Productivity--Continued

_______________________________________________________________________________________

 | Management concerns | Potential productivity

 |___________________________________|__________________________________

 Soil name and | | Equip- | | | | |

 map symbol |Erosion | ment |Seedling| Plant | Common trees |Site |Volume

 |hazard | limita-|mortal- |competi-| |index|of wood

 | | tion | ity | tion | | | fiber

________________|________|________|________|________|____________________|_____|_______

 | | | | | | |

 | | | | | | | m3/ha

 | | | | | | |

LaE-------------|Moderate|Moderate|Slight |Moderate|Northern red oak----| 80 | 4

 Laidig | | | | |White oak-----------| 80 | 4

 | | | | |Yellow-poplar-------| 90 | 6

 | | | | |White ash-----------| 80 | 4

 | | | | |Sugar maple---------| 80 | 4

 | | | | |Black cherry--------| 80 | 4

 | | | | |Black locust--------| 80 | ---

 | | | | | | |

PGF: | | | | | | |

 Pineville------|Severe |Severe |Slight |Moderate|Northern red oak----| 86 | 5

 | | | | |Basswood------------| --- | ---

 | | | | |Black oak-----------| 85 | 4

 | | | | |Hickory-------------| --- | ---

 | | | | |Tuliptree-----------| 108 | 8

 | | | | | | |

 Gilpin---------|Severe |Severe |Slight |Moderate|Northern red oak----| 80 | 4

 | | | | |Tuliptree-----------| 95 | 7

 | | | | | | |

 Laidig---------|Severe |Severe |Slight |Moderate|Northern red oak----| 80 | 4

 | | | | |White oak-----------| 80 | 4

 | | | | |Yellow-poplar-------| 90 | 6

 | | | | |White ash-----------| 80 | 4

 | | | | |Sugar maple---------| 80 | 4

 | | | | |Black cherry--------| 80 | 4

 | | | | |Black locust--------| 80 | ---

 | | | | | | |

Po--------------|Slight |Slight |Slight |Severe |American basswood---| --- | ---

 Pope | | | | |American beech------| --- | ---

 | | | | |American sycamore---| --- | ---

 | | | | |Bitternut hickory---| --- | ---

 | | | | |Blackgum------------| --- | ---

 | | | | |Eastern hemlock-----| --- | ---

 | | | | |Northern red oak----| --- | ---

 | | | | |Tuliptree-----------| 96 | 7

 | | | | |White oak-----------| 80 | 4

 | | | | | | |

Px: | | | | | | |

 Pope-----------|Slight |Slight |Slight |Severe |Northern red oak----| 80 | ---

 | | | | |American basswood---| --- | ---

 | | | | |American beech------| --- | ---

 | | | | |American sycamore---| --- | ---

 | | | | |Bitternut hickory---| --- | ---

 | | | | |Blackgum------------| --- | ---

 | | | | |Eastern hemlock-----| --- | ---

 | | | | |Tuliptree-----------| 96 | 7

 | | | | |White oak-----------| 80 | 4

 | | | | | | |

 Craigsville----|Slight |Slight |Moderate|Moderate|Virginia pine-------| 80 | 8

 | | | | |Eastern white pine--| 90 | 12

 | | | | |Northern red oak----| 80 | 4

 | | | | |Tuliptree-----------| 95 | 7

 | | | | | | |

Ss--------------|Slight |Slight |Slight |Severe |White oak-----------| 80 | 4

 Sensabaugh | | | | |Virginia pine-------| 75 | 8

 | | | | |Shortleaf pine------| 80 | 9

 | | | | |Tuliptree-----------| 100 | 8

 | | | | | | |
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

111

Table 8.--Woodland Management and Productivity--Continued

_______________________________________________________________________________________

 | Management concerns | Potential productivity

 |___________________________________|__________________________________

 Soil name and | | Equip- | | | | |

 map symbol |Erosion | ment |Seedling| Plant | Common trees |Site |Volume

 |hazard | limita-|mortal- |competi-| |index|of wood

 | | tion | ity | tion | | | fiber

________________|________|________|________|________|____________________|_____|_______

 | | | | | | |

 | | | | | | | m3/ha

 | | | | | | |

VaD-------------|Moderate|Severe |Slight |Severe |Northern red oak----| 77 | 4

 Vandalia | | | | |Virginia pine-------| 80 | 8

 | | | | |Tuliptree-----------| 90 | 6

 | | | | | | |

VaE-------------|Severe |Severe |Slight |Severe |Northern red oak----| 77 | 4

 Vandalia | | | | |Virginia pine-------| 80 | 8

 | | | | |Tuliptree-----------| 90 | 6

________________|________|________|________|________|____________________|_____|_______
112

Table 9.--Recreational Development

(The information in this report indicates the dominant soil condition but does not elimina investigation)___________________________________________________________________________________________ | | | |  Map symbol and | Camp areas | Picnic areas | Playgrounds | Paths and trai soil name | | | | _________________|__________________|__________________|__________________|________________ | | | | AgB: | | | |  Allegheny-------|Slight |Slight |Moderate: |Slight  | | | slope |  | | | small stones |  | | | | CeF: | | | |  Cedarcreek------|Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitation:  | varies | varies | varies | varies  | | | | Ch: | | | |  Chavies---------|Severe: |Slight |Moderate: |Slight  | flooding | | small stones |  | | | | FpF: | | | |  Fairpoint-------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | slope  | small stones | small stones | small stones |  | | | | GaF: | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | large stones | slope  | small stones | small stones | slope |  | | | small stones |  | | | | GuC: | | | |  Gilpin----------|Moderate: |Moderate: |Severe: |Slight  | slope | slope | slope |  | | | |  Upshur----------|Moderate: |Moderate: |Severe: |Severe:  | percs slowly | percs slowly | slope | erodes easily  | slope | slope | |  | | | | GuD: | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Moderate:  | slope | slope | slope | slope  | | | |  Upshur----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | erodes easily  | | | | GuE: | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | slope  | | | | 
113

Table 9.--Recreational Development--Continued

__________________________________________________________________________________________ | | | |  Map symbol and | Camp areas | Picnic areas | Playgrounds | Paths and trai soil name | | | | _________________|__________________|__________________|__________________|_______________ | | | | GuE: | | | |  Upshur----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | erodes easily  | | | | slope  | | | | GxF: | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | large stones | slope  | small stones | small stones | slope |  | | | small stones |  | | | |  Upshur----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | large stones | slope  | | | | GyC: | | | |  Gilpin----------|Moderate: |Moderate: |Severe: |Slight  | slope | slope | slope |  | | | |  Lily------------|Moderate: |Moderate: |Severe: |Slight  | slope | slope | slope |  | | | |  | | | | GyD: | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Moderate:  | slope | slope | slope | slope  | | | |  Lily------------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Moderate:  | slope | slope | slope | slope  | | | | GyE: | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | slope  | | | |  Lily------------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | slope  | | | | ItF: | | | |  Itmann----------|Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitation:  | varies | varies | varies | varies  | | | | LaE: | | | |  Laidig----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | large stones | large stones | large stones | slope  | slope | slope | slope |  | | | small stones |  | | | | 
114

Table 9.--Recreational Development--Continued

___________________________________________________________________________________________ | | | |  Map symbol and | Camp areas | Picnic areas | Playgrounds | Paths and trai soil name | | | | _________________|__________________|__________________|__________________|________________ | | | | PGF: | | | |  Pineville-------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | large stones | slope  | | | slope |  | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | large stones | slope  | small stones | small stones | slope |  | | | small stones |  | | | |  Laidig----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | large stones | large stones | large stones | slope  | slope | slope | slope |  | | | small stones |  | | | | Po: | | | |  Pope------------|Severe: |Slight |Moderate: |Slight  | flooding | | flooding |  | | | small stones |  | | | | Px: | | | |  Pope------------|Severe: |Slight |Moderate: |Slight  | flooding | | flooding |  | | | small stones |  | | | |  Craigsville-----|Severe: |Moderate: |Severe: |Slight  | flooding | small stones | small stones |  | | | |  | | | | Ss: | | | |  Sensabaugh------|Severe: |Slight |Moderate: |Slight  | flooding | | small stones |  | | | | Ud: | | | |  Udorthents------| --- | --- | --- | ---  | | | | VaD: | | | |  Vandalia--------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | erodes easily  | | | | VaE: | | | |  Vandalia--------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | erodes easily  | | | | slope _________________|__________________|__________________|__________________|________________
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

115

Table 10.--Wildlife Habitat

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

 | Potential for habitat elements |Potential as habitat for--

 |_______________________________________________________|__________________________

 Map symbol | Grain | | Wild | | | | | | |

 and soil name | and |Grasses|herba- |Hard- |Conif- |Wetland|Shallow|Openland|Woodland|Wetland

 | seed | and | ceous | wood | erous |plants | water |wildlife|wildlife|wildlife

 | crops |legumes|plants | trees |plants | | areas | | |

_________________|_______|_______|_______|_______|_______|_______|_______|________|________|________

 | | | | | | | | | |

AgB: | | | | | | | | | |

 Allegheny-------|Fair |Good |Good |Good |Good |Poor |Very |Good |Good |Very

 | | | | | | | poor | | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

CeF: | | | | | | | | | |

 Cedarcreek------|Very |Very |Good |Good |Good |Very |Very |Poor |Fair |Very

 | poor | poor | | | | poor | poor | | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

Ch: | | | | | | | | | |

 Chavies---------|Good |Good |Good |Good |Good |Poor |Very |Good |Good |Poor

 | | | | | | | poor | | |

 | | | | | | | | | |

FpF: | | | | | | | | | |

 Fairpoint-------|Very |Very |Poor |Poor |Poor |Very |Very |Very |Poor |Very

 | poor | poor | | | | poor | poor | poor | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

GaF: | | | | | | | | | |

 Gilpin----------|Very |Poor |Good |Fair |Fair |Very |Very |Poor |Fair |Very

 | poor | | | | | poor | poor | | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

GuC: | | | | | | | | | |

 Gilpin----------|Fair |Good |Good |Fair |Fair |Very |Very |Good |Fair |Very

 | | | | | | poor | poor | | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

 Upshur----------|Fair |Good |Fair |Good |Good |Very |Very |Fair |Good |Very

 | | | | | | poor | poor | | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

GuD: | | | | | | | | | |

 Gilpin----------|Poor |Fair |Good |Fair |Fair |Very |Very |Fair |Fair |Very

 | | | | | | poor | poor | | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

 Upshur----------|Poor |Fair |Fair |Good |Good |Very |Very |Fair |Good |Very

 | | | | | | poor | poor | | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

GuE: | | | | | | | | | |

 Gilpin----------|Very |Fair |Good |Fair |Fair |Very |Very |Fair |Fair |Very

 | poor | | | | | poor | poor | | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

 Upshur----------|Very |Fair |Fair |Good |Good |Very |Very |Poor |Good |Very

 | poor | | | | | poor | poor | | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

GxF: | | | | | | | | | |

 Gilpin----------|Very |Poor |Good |Fair |Fair |Very |Very |Poor |Fair |Very

 | poor | | | | | poor | poor | | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

 Upshur----------|Very |Very |Fair |Good |Good |Very |Very |Very |Fair |Very

 | poor | poor | | | | poor | poor | poor | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

GyC: | | | | | | | | | |

 Gilpin----------|Fair |Good |Good |Fair |Fair |Very |Very |Good |Fair |Very

 | | | | | | poor | poor | | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

 Lily------------|Fair |Good |Good |Good |Good |Very |Very |Good |Good |Very

 | | | | | | poor | poor | | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

GyD: | | | | | | | | | |

 Gilpin----------|Poor |Fair |Good |Fair |Fair |Very |Very |Fair |Fair |Very

 | | | | | | poor | poor | | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

 Lily------------|Poor |Fair |Good |Good |Good |Very |Very |Fair |Good |Very

 | | | | | | poor | poor | | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

116

Table 10.--Wildlife Habitat--Continued

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

 | Potential for habitat elements |Potential as habitat for--

 |_______________________________________________________|__________________________

 Map symbol | Grain | | Wild | | | | | | |

 and soil name | and |Grasses|herba- |Hard- |Conif- |Wetland|Shallow|Openland|Woodland|Wetland

 | seed | and | ceous | wood | erous |plants | water |wildlife|wildlife|wildlife

 | crops |legumes|plants | trees |plants | | areas | | |

_________________|_______|_______|_______|_______|_______|_______|_______|________|________|________

 | | | | | | | | | |

GyE: | | | | | | | | | |

 Gilpin----------|Very |Fair |Good |Fair |Fair |Very |Very |Fair |Fair |Very

 | poor | | | | | poor | poor | | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

 Lily------------|Very |Fair |Good |Good |Good |Very |Very |Fair |Good |Very

 | poor | | | | | poor | poor | | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

ItF: | | | | | | | | | |

 Itmann----------|Very |Very |Very |Very |Very |Very |Very |Very |Very |Very

 | poor | poor | poor | poor | poor | poor | poor | poor | poor | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

LaE: | | | | | | | | | |

 Laidig----------|Very |Very |Good |Fair |Fair |Very |Very |Poor |Fair |Very

 | poor | poor | | | | poor | poor | | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

PGF: | | | | | | | | | |

 Pineville-------|Very |Very |Good |Good |Good |Very |Very |Poor |Fair |Very

 | poor | poor | | | | poor | poor | | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

 Gilpin----------|Very |Poor |Good |Fair |Fair |Very |Very |Poor |Fair |Very

 | poor | | | | | poor | poor | | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

 Laidig----------|Very |Very |Good |Fair |Fair |Very |Very |Poor |Fair |Very

 | poor | poor | | | | poor | poor | | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

Po: | | | | | | | | | |

 Pope------------|Good |Good |Good |Good |Good |Poor |Very |Good |Good |Very

 | | | | | | | poor | | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

Px: | | | | | | | | | |

 Pope------------|Good |Good |Good |Good |Good |Poor |Very |Good |Good |Very

 | | | | | | | poor | | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

 Craigsville-----|Poor |Fair |Fair |Fair |Fair |Poor |Very |Fair |Fair |Very

 | | | | | | | poor | | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

Ss: | | | | | | | | | |

 Sensabaugh------|Good |Good |Good |Good |Good |Very |Very |Good |Good |Very

 | | | | | | poor | poor | | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

Ud: | | | | | | | | | |

 Udorthents------| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | | | | | |

 | | | | | | | | | |

VaD: | | | | | | | | | |

 Vandalia--------|Poor |Fair |Fair |Good |Good |Very |Very |Fair |Good |Very

 | | | | | | poor | poor | | | poor

 | | | | | | | | | |

VaE: | | | | | | | | | |

 Vandalia--------|Very |Fair |Fair |Good |Good |Very |Very |Poor |Good |Very

 | poor | | | | | poor | poor | | | poor

_________________|_______|_______|_______|_______|_______|_______|_______|________|________|________
117

Table 11.--Building Site Development

(The information in this report indicates the dominant soil condition but does not eliminate  investigation)____________________________________________________________________________________________ | | | | |  Map symbol and | Shallow | Dwellings |Dwellings with | Small | Local ro soil name | excavations | without | basements | commercial | and stre | | basements | | buildings | _________________|_______________|_______________|_______________|_______________|__________ | | | | | AgB: | | | | |  Allegheny-------|Slight |Slight |Slight |Moderate: |Slight  | | | | slope |  | | | | | CeF: | | | | |  Cedarcreek------|Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitation | varies | varies | varies | varies | varies  | | | | | Ch: | | | | |  Chavies---------|Slight |Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Moderate:  | | flooding | flooding | flooding | flooding  | | | | | FpF: | | | | |  Fairpoint-------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope. | slope | slope | slope | slope  | | unstable fill | unstable fill | unstable fill | unstable  | | | | | GaF: | | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | slope | slope  | | | | |  | | | | |  | | | | | GuC: | | | | |  Gilpin----------|Moderate: |Moderate: |Moderate: |Severe: |Moderate:  | slope | slope | slope | slope | frost act | depth to rock | | depth to rock | | slope  | | | | |  Upshur----------|Moderate: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | shrink-swell | shrink-swell | shrink-swell | low stren | too clayey | | | slope | shrink-sw | | | | slippage |  | | | | | GuD: | | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | slope | slope  | | | | |  Upshur----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | shrink-swell | shrink-swell | shrink-swell | low stren | slippage | slope | slope | slope | shrink-sw | | slippage | slippage | slippage | slope  | | | | | 
118

Table 11.--Building Site Development--Continued

____________________________________________________________________________________________ | | | | |  Map symbol and | Shallow | Dwellings |Dwellings with | Small | Local ro soil name | excavations | without | basements | commercial | and stre | | basements | | buildings | _________________|_______________|_______________|_______________|_______________|__________ | | | | | GuE: | | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | slope | slope  | | | | |  Upshur----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | shrink-swell | shrink-swell | shrink-swell | low stren | slippage | slope | slope | slope | shrink-sw | | slippage | slippage | slippage | slope  | | | | | GxF: | | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | slope | slope  | | | | |  | | | | |  | | | | |  Upshur----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | shrink-swell | shrink-swell | shrink-swell | low stren | slippage | slope | slope | slope | shrink-sw | | slippage | slippage | slippage | slope  | | | | | GyC: | | | | |  Gilpin----------|Moderate: |Moderate: |Moderate: |Severe: |Moderate:  | slope | slope | slope | slope | frost act | depth to rock | | depth to rock | | slope  | | | | |  Lily------------|Severe: |Moderate: |Severe: |Severe: |Moderate:  | depth to rock | slope | depth to rock | slope | slope  | | depth to rock | | | depth to GyD: | | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | slope | slope  | | | | |  Lily------------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | slope | slope  | depth to rock | | depth to rock | |  | | | | | GyE: | | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | slope | slope  | | | | |  Lily------------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | slope | slope  | depth to rock | | depth to rock | |  | | | | | ItF: | | | | |  Itmann----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | slope | slope  | | | | | 
119

Table 11.--Building Site Development--Continued

____________________________________________________________________________________________ | | | | |  Map symbol and | Shallow | Dwellings |Dwellings with | Small | Local ro soil name | excavations | without | basements | commercial | and stre | | basements | | buildings | _________________|_______________|_______________|_______________|_______________|__________ | | | | | LaE: | | | | |  Laidig----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | slope | slope  | | | | | PGF: | | | | |  Pineville-------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | slope | slope  | | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | slope | slope  | | | | |  | | | | |  | | | | |  Laidig----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | slope | slope  | | | | | Po: | | | | |  Pope------------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | cutbanks cave | flooding | flooding | flooding | flooding  | | | | | Px: | | | | |  Pope------------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | cutbanks cave | flooding | flooding | flooding | flooding  | | | | |  Craigsville-----|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | large stones | flooding | flooding | flooding | flooding  | cutbanks cave | large stones | large stones | large stones | large sto | | | | | Ss: | | | | |  Sensabaugh------|Moderate: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | flooding | flooding | flooding | flooding | flooding  | wetness | | | |  | | | | | Ud: | | | | |  Udorthents------| --- | --- | --- | --- | ---  | | | | | VaD: | | | | |  Vandalia--------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | shrink-swell | shrink-swell | shrink-swell | low stren | | slope | slope | slope | shrink-sw | | | | | slope  | | | | | VaE: | | | | |  Vandalia--------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | shrink-swell | shrink-swell | shrink-swell | low stren | | slope | slope | slope | shrink-sw | | | | | slope _________________|_______________|_______________|_______________|_______________|__________
120

Table 12.--Sanitary Facilities

(The information in this report indicates the dominant soil condition but does not elimina investigation)___________________________________________________________________________________________ | | | |  Map symbol and | Septic tank | Sewage lagoon | Trench sanitary | Area sanitary  soil name |absorption fields | areas | landfill | landfill _________________|__________________|__________________|__________________|________________ | | | | AgB: | | | |  Allegheny-------|Slight |Moderate: |Moderate: |Slight  | | seepage | too clayey |  | | slope | |  | | | | CeF: | | | |  Cedarcreek------|Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitation:  | varies | varies | varies | varies  | | | | Ch: | | | |  Chavies---------|Moderate: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | flooding | seepage | seepage | seepage  | | | | FpF: | | | |  Fairpoint-------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | percs slowly | slope | slope | slope  | slope | unstable fill | unstable fill | unstable fill  | unstable fill | | |  | | | | GaF: | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | slope  | depth to rock | depth to rock | depth to rock | depth to rock  | | | |  | | | | GuC: | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | depth to rock | slope | depth to rock | depth to rock  | | depth to rock | |  | | | |  Upshur----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Moderate:  | percs slowly | slope | too clayey | slope  | | | depth to rock | depth to rock  | | | | GuD: | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | slope  | depth to rock | depth to rock | depth to rock | depth to rock  | | | |  | | | |  Upshur----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | percs slowly | slope | slope | slope  | slope | | too clayey | slippage  | slippage | | depth to rock |  | | | | 
121

Table 12.--Sanitary Facilities--Continued

___________________________________________________________________________________________ | | | |  Map symbol and | Septic tank | Sewage lagoon | Trench sanitary | Area sanitary  soil name |absorption fields | areas | landfill | landfill _________________|__________________|__________________|__________________|________________ | | | | GuE: | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | slope  | depth to rock | depth to rock | depth to rock | depth to rock  | | | |  | | | |  Upshur----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | percs slowly | slope | slope | slope  | slope | | too clayey | slippage  | slippage | | depth to rock |  | | | | GxF: | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | slope  | depth to rock | depth to rock | depth to rock | depth to rock  | | | |  | | | |  Upshur----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | percs slowly | slope | slope | slope  | slope | | too clayey | slippage  | slippage | | depth to rock |  | | | | GyC: | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | depth to rock | slope | depth to rock | depth to rock  | | depth to rock | |  | | | |  Lily------------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | depth to rock | seepage | seepage | seepage  | | slope | depth to rock | depth to rock  | | depth to rock | |  | | | | GyD: | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | slope  | depth to rock | depth to rock | depth to rock | depth to rock  | | | |  | | | |  Lily------------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | seepage | seepage | seepage  | depth to rock | slope | slope | slope  | | depth to rock | depth to rock | depth to rock  | | | | 
122

Table 12.--Sanitary Facilities--Continued

___________________________________________________________________________________________ | | | |  Map symbol and | Septic tank | Sewage lagoon | Trench sanitary | Area sanitary  soil name |absorption fields | areas | landfill | landfill _________________|__________________|__________________|__________________|________________ | | | | GyE: | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | slope  | depth to rock | depth to rock | depth to rock | depth to rock  | | | |  | | | |  Lily------------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | seepage | seepage | seepage  | depth to rock | slope | slope | slope  | | depth to rock | depth to rock | depth to rock  | | | | ItF: | | | |  Itmann----------|Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitation:  | varies | varies | varies | varies  | | | | LaE: | | | |  Laidig----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | percs slowly | seepage | slope | seepage  | slope | slope | | slope  | wetness | wetness | |  | | | | PGF: | | | |  Pineville-------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | seepage | seepage | seepage  | | slope | slope | slope  | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | slope | slope | slope | slope  | depth to rock | depth to rock | depth to rock | depth to rock  | | | |  | | | |  Laidig----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | percs slowly | seepage | slope | seepage  | slope | slope | | slope  | wetness | wetness | |  | | | | Po: | | | |  Pope------------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | flooding | flooding | flooding | flooding  | | seepage | seepage | seepage  | | | | Px: | | | |  Pope------------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | flooding | flooding | flooding | flooding  | | seepage | seepage | seepage  | | | | 
123

Table 12.--Sanitary Facilities--Continued

___________________________________________________________________________________________ | | | |  Map symbol and | Septic tank | Sewage lagoon | Trench sanitary | Area sanitary  soil name |absorption fields | areas | landfill | landfill _________________|__________________|__________________|__________________|________________ | | | | Px: | | | |  Craigsville-----|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | flooding | flooding | flooding | flooding  | large stones | large stones | large stones | seepage  | poor filter | seepage | seepage |  | | | | Ss: | | | |  Sensabaugh------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | flooding | flooding | flooding | flooding  | | seepage | seepage | seepage  | | | wetness |  | | | | Ud: | | | |  Udorthents------| --- | --- | --- | ---  | | | | VaD: | | | |  Vandalia--------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | percs slowly | slope | slope | slope  | slope | slippage | too clayey | slippage  | slippage | | slippage |  | | | | VaE: | | | |  Vandalia--------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Severe:  | percs slowly | slope | slope | slope  | slope | slippage | too clayey |  | slippage | | slippage | _________________|__________________|__________________|__________________|________________
124

Table 13.--Construction Materials

(The information in this report indicates the dominant soil condition but does not eliminate  investigation)____________________________________________________________________________________________ | | | | Map symbol and | Roadfill | Sand | Gravel |  soil name | | | |_________________|_______________________|_______________________|_______________________|__ | | | |AgB: | | | | Allegheny-------|Good |Improbable: |Improbable: |Fa | | excess fines | excess fines | a | | | | s | | | |CeF: | | | | Cedarcreek------|Poor: |Improbable: |Improbable: |Po | slope | excess fines | excess fines | a | | | | s | | | | s | | | |Ch: | | | | Chavies---------|Good |Improbable: |Improbable: |Go | | excess fines | excess fines | | | | |FpF: | | | | Fairpoint-------|Poor: |Improbable: |Improbable: |Po | slope | excess fines | excess fines | a | | | | s | | | | s | | | |GaF: | | | | Gilpin----------|Poor: |Improbable: |Improbable: |Po | slope | excess fines | excess fines | s | depth to rock | | | s | | | |GuC: | | | | Gilpin----------|Poor: |Improbable: |Improbable: |Po | depth to rock | excess fines | excess fines | s | | | | Upshur----------|Poor: |Improbable: |Improbable: |Po | low strength | excess fines | excess fines | t | shrink-swell | | | | | | |GuD: | | | | Gilpin----------|Poor: |Improbable: |Improbable: |Po | depth to rock | excess fines | excess fines | s | | | | s | | | | Upshur----------|Poor: |Improbable: |Improbable: |Po | low strength | excess fines | excess fines | s | shrink-swell | | | t | | | |
125

Table 13.--Construction Materials--Continued

____________________________________________________________________________________________ | | | | Map symbol and | Roadfill | Sand | Gravel |  soil name | | | |_________________|_______________________|_______________________|_______________________|__ | | | |GuE: | | | | Gilpin----------|Poor: |Improbable: |Improbable: |Po | slope | excess fines | excess fines | s | depth to rock | | | s | | | | Upshur----------|Poor: |Improbable: |Improbable: |Po | low strength | excess fines | excess fines | s | shrink-swell | | | t | slope | | | | | | |GxF: | | | | Gilpin----------|Poor: |Improbable: |Improbable: |Po | slope | excess fines | excess fines | s | depth to rock | | | s | | | | Upshur----------|Poor: |Improbable: |Improbable: |Po | low strength | excess fines | excess fines | s | shrink-swell | | | t | slope | | | | | | |GyC: | | | | Gilpin----------|Poor: |Improbable: |Improbable: |Po | depth to rock | excess fines | excess fines | s | | | | Lily------------|Poor: |Improbable: |Improbable: |Fa | depth to rock | excess fines | excess fines | a | | | | s | | | |GyD: | | | | Gilpin----------|Poor: |Improbable: |Improbable: |Po | depth to rock | excess fines | excess fines | s | | | | s | | | | Lily------------|Poor: |Improbable: |Improbable: |Po | depth to rock | excess fines | excess fines | s | | | |GyE: | | | | Gilpin----------|Poor: |Improbable: |Improbable: |Po | slope | excess fines | excess fines | s | depth to rock | | | s | | | | Lily------------|Poor: |Improbable: |Improbable: |Po | slope | excess fines | excess fines | s | depth to rock | | | | | | |
126

Table 13.--Construction Materials--Continued

___________________________________________________________________________________________ | | | | Map symbol and | Roadfill | Sand | Gravel |  soil name | | | |_________________|_______________________|_______________________|_______________________|_ | | | |ItF: | | | | Itmann----------|Poor: |Improbable: |Improbable: |P | slope | excess fines | excess fines |  | | | |  | | | |  | | | |LaE: | | | | Laidig----------|Poor: |Improbable: |Improbable: |P | slope | excess fines | excess fines |  | | | |  | | | |  | | | |PGF: | | | | Pineville-------|Poor: |Improbable: |Improbable: |S | slope | excess fines | excess fines |  | | | |  | | | | Gilpin----------|Poor: |Improbable: |Improbable: |P | slope | excess fines | excess fines |  | depth to rock | | |  | | | | Laidig----------|Poor: |Improbable: |Improbable: |P | slope | excess fines | excess fines |  | | | |  | | | |  | | | |Po: | | | | Pope------------|Good |Improbable: |Improbable: |P | | excess fines | excess fines |  | | | |Px: | | | | Pope------------|Good |Improbable: |Improbable: |P | | excess fines | excess fines |  | | | | Craigsville-----|Poor: |Improbable: |Improbable: |P | large stones | large stones | large stones |  | | | |  | | | |Ss: | | | | Sensabaugh------|Good |Improbable: |Improbable: |P | | excess fines | excess fines |  | | | |  | | | |Ud: | | | | Udorthents------| --- | --- | --- |  | | | |
127

Table 13.--Construction Materials--Continued

____________________________________________________________________________________________ | | | | Map symbol and | Roadfill | Sand | Gravel |  soil name | | | |_________________|_______________________|_______________________|_______________________|__ | | | |VaD: | | | | Vandalia--------|Poor: |Improbable: |Improbable: |Po | low strength | excess fines | excess fines | s | shrink-swell | | | s | | | | t | | | |VaE: | | | | Vandalia--------|Poor: |Improbable: |Improbable: |Po | low strength | excess fines | excess fines | s | shrink-swell | | | s | slope | | | t_________________|_______________________|_______________________|_______________________|__
128

Table 14.--Water Management

(The information in this report indicates the dominant soil condition but does not eliminate the nee investigation)_____________________________________________________________________________________________________ | Limitations for-- | Features affecting |____________________________________________|______________________________________ Map symbol and |Pond reservoir| Embankments, | Aquifer-fed | | |Terrace soil name | areas | dikes, and | excavated | Drainage | Irrigation | diver | | levees | ponds | | | _________________|______________|______________|______________|______________|______________|________ | | | | | | AgB: | | | | | |  Allegheny-------|Moderate: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Favorab | seepage | piping | no water | deep to water| slope |  | slope | | | | |  | | | | | | CeF: | | | | | |  Cedarcreek------|Severe: |Moderate: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | seepage | large stones | no water | deep to water| large stones | large  | slope | | | | slope | slope  | | | | | droughty |  | | | | | | Ch: | | | | | |  Chavies---------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | seepage | piping | no water | deep to water| soil blowing | soil b | | | | | | FpF: | | | | | |  Fairpoint-------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | slope | large stones | no water | deep to water| large stones | large  | | | | | slope | slope  | | | | | droughty | GaF: | | | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | slope | piping | no water | deep to water| large stones | large  | | | | | slope | slope  | | | | | depth to rock| depth  | | | | | | GuC: | | | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | slope | piping | no water | deep to water| slope | large  | | | | | depth to rock| slope  | | | | | | depth  | | | | | |  Upshur----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | slope | hard to pack | no water | deep to water| erodes easily| erodes  | slippage | | | | percs slowly | percs  | | | | | slope | slope  | | | | | | GuD: | | | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | slope | piping | no water | deep to water| slope | large  | | | | | depth to rock| slope  | | | | | | depth  | | | | | | 
129

Table 14.--Water Management--Continued

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________ | Limitations for-- | Features affecting |____________________________________________|______________________________________ Map symbol and |Pond reservoir| Embankments, | Aquifer-fed | | |Terrace soil name | areas | dikes, and | excavated | Drainage | Irrigation | diver | | levees | ponds | | | _________________|______________|______________|______________|______________|______________|________ | | | | | | GuD: | | | | | |  Upshur----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | slope | hard to pack | no water | deep to water| erodes easily| erodes  | slippage | | | | percs slowly | percs  | | | | | slope | slope  | | | | | | GuE: | | | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | slope | piping | no water | deep to water| slope | large  | | | | | depth to rock| slope  | | | | | | depth  | | | | | |  Upshur----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | slope | hard to pack | no water | deep to water| erodes easily| erodes  | slippage | | | | percs slowly | percs  | | | | | slope | slope  | | | | | | GxF: | | | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | slope | piping | no water | deep to water| large stones | large  | | | | | slope | slope  | | | | | depth to rock| depth  | | | | | |  Upshur----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | slope | hard to pack | no water | deep to water| percs slowly | erodes  | slippage | | | | slope | percs  | | | | | | slope  | | | | | | GyC: | | | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | slope | piping | no water | deep to water| slope | large  | | | | | depth to rock| slope  | | | | | | depth  | | | | | |  Lily------------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | seepage | piping | no water | deep to water| slope | slope  | | | | | depth to rock| depth  | | | | | | GyD: | | | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | slope | thin layer | no water | deep to water| slope | large  | | | | | depth to rock| slope  | | | | | | depth  | | | | | | 
130

Table 14.--Water Management--Continued

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________ | Limitations for-- | Features affecting |____________________________________________|______________________________________ Map symbol and |Pond reservoir| Embankments, | Aquifer-fed | | |Terrace soil name | areas | dikes, and | excavated | Drainage | Irrigation | diver | | levees | ponds | | | _________________|______________|______________|______________|______________|______________|________ | | | | | | GyD: | | | | | |  Lily------------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | seepage | piping | no water | deep to water| slope | slope  | slope | | | | depth to rock| depth  | | | | | | GyE: | | | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | slope | piping | no water | deep to water| slope | large  | | | | | depth to rock| slope  | | | | | | depth  | | | | | |  Lily------------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | seepage | piping | no water | deep to water| slope | slope  | slope | | | | depth to rock| depth  | | | | | | ItF: | | | | | |  Itmann----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | seepage | seepage | no water | deep to water| slope | erodes  | slope | | | | droughty | slope  | | | | | | LaE: | | | | | |  Laidig----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | seepage | piping | no water | percs slowly | slope | large  | slope | | | slope | wetness | slope  | | | | | droughty | wetnes | | | | | | PGF: | | | | | |  Pineville-------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | seepage | piping | no water | deep to water| slope | slope  | slope | | | | |  | | | | | | PGF: | | | | | |  Gilpin----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | slope | piping | no water | deep to water| large stones | large  | | | | | slope | slope  | | | | | depth to rock| depth  | | | | | |  Laidig----------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | seepage | piping | no water | percs slowly | slope | large  | slope | | | slope | wetness | slope  | | | | | droughty | wetnes | | | | | | Po: | | | | | |  Pope------------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Favorable |Favorab | seepage | piping | no water | deep to water| |  | | | | | | 
131

Table 14.--Water Management--Continued

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________ | Limitations for-- | Features affecting |____________________________________________|______________________________________ Map symbol and |Pond reservoir| Embankments, | Aquifer-fed | | |Terrace soil name | areas | dikes, and | excavated | Drainage | Irrigation | diver | | levees | ponds | | | _________________|______________|______________|______________|______________|______________|________ | | | | | | Px: | | | | | |  Pope------------|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Favorable |Favorab | seepage | piping | no water | deep to water| |  | | | | | |  Craigsville-----|Severe: |Severe: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | seepage | large stones | no water | deep to water| large stones | large  | | seepage | | | droughty | too sa | | | | | | soil b | | | | | | Ss: | | | | | |  Sensabaugh------|Severe: |Moderate: |Moderate: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | seepage | large stones | slow refill | deep to water| flooding | large  | | | deep to water| | |  | | | | | | Ud: | | | | | |  Udorthents------| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | -- | | | | | | VaD: | | | | | |  Vandalia--------|Severe: |Moderate: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | slope | hard to pack | no water | deep to water| erodes easily| erodes  | | piping | | | percs slowly | percs  | | | | | slope | slope  | | | | | | VaE: | | | | | |  Vandalia--------|Severe: |Moderate: |Severe: |Limitation: |Limitation: |Limitat | slope | hard to pack | no water | deep to water| erodes easily| erodes  | | piping | | | percs slowly | percs  | | | | | slope | slope _________________|______________|______________|______________|______________|______________|________
132

Table 15.--Engineering Index Properties

________________________________________________________________________________________________________ | | | Classification | Fragments | Percentage pass Map symbol | Depth | USDA texture |___________________________|_____________| sieve number- and soil name | | | | | >10 | 3-10 |____________________ | | | Unified | AASHTO |inches|inches| 4 | 10 | 40 _________________|_______|_______________|_____________|_____________|______|______|______|______|______ | In | | | | Pct | Pct | | |  | | | | | | | | | AgB: | | | | | | | | |  Allegheny-------| 0-9 |Loam |CL, ML |A-4 | 0 | 0 |90-100|80-100|65-10 | 9-49 |Clay loam, |CL, ML, SC, |A-4, A-6 | 0 | 0 |90-100|80-100|65-95  | | loam, sandy | SM | | | | | |  | | clay loam | | | | | | |  | 49-65 |Clay loam, |CL, GC, ML, |A-1, A-2, A- | --- | 0-5 |65-100|55-100|35-95  | | sandy loam, | SM | 4, A-6 | | | | |  | | gravelly sandy| | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | | CeF: | | | | | | | | |  Cedarcreek------| 0-10 |Very channery |GC |A-2, A-4, A-6| --- |15-30 |45-60 |40-55 |30-50  | | loam | | | | | | |  | 10-65 |Very channery |GC |A-2, A-4 | --- | 5-30 |30-55 |25-50 |20-45  | | loam, | | | | | | |  | | extremely | | | | | | |  | | channery loam,| | | | | | |  | | very channery | | | | | | |  | | sandy loam | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | | Ch: | | | | | | | | |  Chavies---------| 0-9 |Fine sandy loam|CL-ML, ML, |A-4 | 0 | 0 |85-100|75-100|40-90  | | | SC-SM, SM | | | | | |  | 9-57 |Fine sandy |ML, SM |A-4 | 0 | 0 |85-100|75-100|65-10 | | loam, loam | | | | | | |  | 57-65 |Fine sandy |CL-ML, ML, |A-1-b, A-2, | --- | 0-5 |70-100|60-95 |40-85  | | loam, loam, | SC-SM, SM | A-4 | | | | |  | | gravelly sandy| | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | | FpF: | | | | | | | | |  Fairpoint-------| 0-4 |Channery loam |CL-ML, GC-GM,|A-4, A-6 | --- | 0-15 |65-90 |55-80 |50-80  | | | GM, ML | | | | | |  | 4-65 |Very channery |CL, CL-ML, |A-2, A-4, A- | --- |15-30 |55-75 |25-65 |20-65  | | clay loam, | GC, SC | 6, A-7 | | | | |  | | channery loam | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | | 
133

Table 15.--Engineering Index Properties--Continued

________________________________________________________________________________________________________ | | | Classification | Fragments | Percentage pass Map symbol | Depth | USDA texture |___________________________|_____________| sieve number- and soil name | | | | | >10 | 3-10 |____________________ | | | Unified | AASHTO |inches|inches| 4 | 10 | 40 _________________|_______|_______________|_____________|_____________|______|______|______|______|______ | In | | | | Pct | Pct | | |  | | | | | | | | | GaF: | | | | | | | | |  Gilpin----------| 0-10 |Very stony silt|CL, CL-ML, |A-2, A-4, A-6| --- |10-40 |50-90 |45-85 |35-75  | | loam | GC, SC | | | | | |  | 10-29 |Silt loam, |CL, CL-ML, |A-2, A-4, A-5| --- | 0-30 |50-95 |45-90 |35-85  | | channery silty| GC-GM, SC | | | | | |  | | clay loam, | | | | | | |  | | channery silt | | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | |  | 29-37 |Channery silty |GC, GC-GM |A-1, A-2, A- | --- | 0-35 |25-55 |20-50 |15-45  | | clay loam, | | 4, A-5 | | | | |  | | channery silt | | | | | | |  | | loam, channery| | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | |  | 37-47 |Unweathered | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---  | | bedrock | | | | | | | GuC: | | | | | | | | |  Gilpin----------| 0-10 |Silt loam |CL, CL-ML |A-4, A-6 | --- | 0-5 |80-95 |75-90 |70-85  | 10-29 |Silt loam, |CL, CL-ML, |A-2, A-4, A-6| --- | 0-30 |50-95 |45-90 |35-85  | | channery silty| GC, SC | | | | | |  | | clay loam, | | | | | | |  | | channery silt | | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | |  | 29-37 |Channery silty |GC, GC-GM |A-1, A-2, A- | --- | 0-35 |25-55 |20-50 |15-45  | | clay loam, | | 4, A-6 | | | | |  | | channery silt | | | | | | |  | | loam, channery| | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | |  | 37-47 |Unweathered | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---  | | bedrock | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | |  Upshur----------| 0-11 |Silt loam |CL, CL-ML, ML|A-4, A-6 | 0 | 0 |95-100|95-100|85-10 | 11-42 |Silty clay, |CH, CL, MH |A-7 | 0 | 0 |95-100|95-100|90-10 | | clay | | | | | | |  | 42-65 |Channery silty |CH, CL, MH, |A-6, A-7 | 0 | 0 |80-100|65-100|60-10 | | clay loam, | ML | | | | | |  | | silty clay, | | | | | | |  | | clay | | | | | | |  | 65-75 |Weathered | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---  | | bedrock | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | | 
134

Table 15.--Engineering Index Properties--Continued

________________________________________________________________________________________________________ | | | Classification | Fragments | Percentage pass Map symbol | Depth | USDA texture |___________________________|_____________| sieve number- and soil name | | | | | >10 | 3-10 |____________________ | | | Unified | AASHTO |inches|inches| 4 | 10 | 40 _________________|_______|_______________|_____________|_____________|______|______|______|______|______ | In | | | | Pct | Pct | | |  | | | | | | | | | GuD: | | | | | | | | |  Gilpin----------| 0-10 |Silt loam |CL, CL-ML |A-4, A-6 | --- | 0-5 |80-95 |75-90 |70-85  | 10-29 |Silt loam, |CL, CL-ML, |A-2, A-4, A-6| --- | 0-30 |50-95 |45-90 |35-85  | | channery silty| GC, SC | | | | | |  | | clay loam, | | | | | | |  | | channery silt | | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | |  | 29-37 |Channery silty |GC, GC-GM |A-1, A-2, A- | --- | 0-35 |25-55 |20-50 |15-45  | | clay loam, | | 4, A-6 | | | | |  | | channery silt | | | | | | |  | | loam, channery| | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | |  | 37-47 |Unweathered | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---  | | bedrock | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | |  Upshur----------| 0-11 |Silt loam |CL, CL-ML, ML|A-4, A-6 | 0 | 0 |95-100|95-100|85-10 | 11-42 |Silty clay, |CH, CL, MH |A-7 | 0 | 0 |95-100|95-100|90-10 | | clay | | | | | | |  | 42-65 |Channery silty |CH, CL, MH, |A-6, A-7 | 0 | 0 |80-100|65-100|60-10 | | clay loam, | ML | | | | | |  | | silty clay, | | | | | | |  | | clay | | | | | | |  | 65-75 |Weathered | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---  | | bedrock | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | | GuE: | | | | | | | | |  Gilpin----------| 0-10 |Silt loam |CL, CL-ML |A-4, A-6 | --- | 0-5 |80-95 |75-90 |70-85  | 10-29 |Silt loam, |CL, CL-ML, |A-2, A-4, A-6| --- | 0-30 |50-95 |45-90 |35-85  | | channery silty| GC, SC | | | | | |  | | clay loam, | | | | | | |  | | channery silt | | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | |  | 29-37 |Channery silty |GC, GC-GM |A-1, A-2, A- | --- | 0-35 |25-55 |20-50 |15-45  | | clay loam, | | 4, A-6 | | | | |  | | channery silt | | | | | | |  | | loam, channery| | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | |  | 37-47 |Unweathered | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---  | | bedrock | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | | 
135

Table 15.--Engineering Index Properties--Continued

________________________________________________________________________________________________________ | | | Classification | Fragments | Percentage pass Map symbol | Depth | USDA texture |___________________________|_____________| sieve number- and soil name | | | | | >10 | 3-10 |____________________ | | | Unified | AASHTO |inches|inches| 4 | 10 | 40 _________________|_______|_______________|_____________|_____________|______|______|______|______|______ | In | | | | Pct | Pct | | |  | | | | | | | | | GuE: | | | | | | | | |  Upshur----------| 0-11 |Silt loam |CL, CL-ML, ML|A-4, A-6 | 0 | 0 |95-100|95-100|85-10 | 11-42 |Silty clay, |CH, CL, MH |A-7 | 0 | 0 |95-100|95-100|90-10 | | clay | | | | | | |  | 42-65 |Channery silty |CH, CL, MH, |A-6, A-7 | 0 | 0 |80-100|65-100|60-10 | | clay loam, | ML | | | | | |  | | silty clay, | | | | | | |  | | clay | | | | | | |  | 65-75 |Weathered | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---  | | bedrock | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | | GxF: | | | | | | | | |  Gilpin----------| 0-10 |Very stony silt|CL, CL-ML, |A-2, A-4, A-6| --- |10-40 |50-90 |45-85 |35-75  | | loam | GC, SC | | | | | |  | 10-29 |Silt loam, |CL, CL-ML, |A-2, A-4, A-5| --- | 0-30 |50-95 |45-90 |35-85  | | channery silty| GC-GM, SC | | | | | |  | | clay loam, | | | | | | |  | | channery silt | | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | |  | 29-37 |Channery silty |GC, GC-GM |A-1, A-2, A- | --- | 0-35 |25-55 |20-50 |15-45  | | clay loam, | | 4, A-5 | | | | |  | | channery silt | | | | | | |  | | loam, channery| | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | |  | 37-47 |Unweathered | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---  | | bedrock | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | |  Upshur----------| 0-11 |Very stony silt|CL, CL-ML, ML|A-4, A-6 | --- | 3-10 |95-100|95-100|85-10 | | loam | | | | | | |  | 11-42 |Silty clay, |CH, CL, MH |A-7 | 0 | 0 |95-100|95-100|90-10 | | clay | | | | | | |  | 42-65 |Channery silty |ML, CH, CL, |A-6, A-7 | 0 | 0 |80-100|65-100|60-10 | | clay loam, | MH | | | | | |  | | silty clay, | | | | | | |  | | clay | | | | | | |  | 65-75 |Weathered | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---  | | bedrock | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | | 
136

Table 15.--Engineering Index Properties--Continued

________________________________________________________________________________________________________ | | | Classification | Fragments | Percentage pass Map symbol | Depth | USDA texture |___________________________|_____________| sieve number- and soil name | | | | | >10 | 3-10 |____________________ | | | Unified | AASHTO |inches|inches| 4 | 10 | 40 _________________|_______|_______________|_____________|_____________|______|______|______|______|______ | In | | | | Pct | Pct | | |  | | | | | | | | | GyC: | | | | | | | | |  Gilpin----------| 0-10 |Silt loam |CL-ML, CL |A-4, A-6 | --- | 0-5 |80-95 |75-90 |70-85  | 10-29 |Silt loam, |CL, SC, GC, |A-2, A-4, A-6| --- | 0-30 |50-95 |45-90 |35-85  | | channery silty| CL-ML | | | | | |  | | clay loam, | | | | | | |  | | channery silt | | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | |  | 29-37 |Channery silty |GC-GM, GC |A-1, A-2, A- | --- | 0-35 |25-55 |20-50 |15-45  | | clay loam, | | 4, A-6 | | | | |  | | channery silt | | | | | | |  | | loam, channery| | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | |  | 37-40 |Unweathered | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---  | | bedrock | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | |  Lily------------| 0-4 |Loam |ML, CL-ML |A-4 | --- | 0-5 |90-100|85-100|70-95  | 4-28 |Loam, clay |SC, SM, CL, |A-4, A-6 | --- | 0-5 |90-100|85-100|75-10 | | loam, sandy | ML | | | | | |  | | clay loam | | | | | | |  | 28-32 |Channery sandy |SM, SC, ML, |A-1-b, A-2, | --- | 0-10 |65-100|50-100|40-95  | | loam, channery| CL | A-4, A-6 | | | | |  | | clay loam, | | | | | | |  | | channery loam | | | | | | |  | 32-42 |Unweathered | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---  | | bedrock | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | | GyD: | | | | | | | | |  Gilpin----------| 0-10 |Silt loam |CL-ML, CL |A-4, A-6 | --- | 0-5 |75-100|75-100|70-85  | 10-29 |Silt loam, |SC, GC, CL- |A-2, A-4, A-6| --- | 0-30 |50-95 |45-90 |35-85  | | channery silty| ML, CL | | | | | |  | | clay loam, | | | | | | |  | | channery silt | | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | |  | 29-37 |Channery silty |GC, GC-GM |A-1, A-2, A- | --- | 0-35 |25-55 |20-50 |15-45  | | clay loam, | | 4, A-6 | | | | |  | | channery silt | | | | | | |  | | loam, channery| | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | |  | 37-47 |Unweathered | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---  | | bedrock | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | | 
137

Table 15.--Engineering Index Properties--Continued

________________________________________________________________________________________________________ | | | Classification | Fragments | Percentage pass Map symbol | Depth | USDA texture |___________________________|_____________| sieve number- and soil name | | | | | >10 | 3-10 |____________________ | | | Unified | AASHTO |inches|inches| 4 | 10 | 40 _________________|_______|_______________|_____________|_____________|______|______|______|______|______ | In | | | | Pct | Pct | | |  | | | | | | | | | GyD: | | | | | | | | |  Lily------------| 0-4 |Loam |ML, CL-ML |A-4 | --- | 0-5 |90-100|85-100|70-95  | 4-28 |Clay loam, |SM, SC, ML, |A-4, A-6 | --- | 0-5 |90-100|85-100|75-10 | | sandy clay | CL | | | | | |  | | loam, loam | | | | | | |  | 28-32 |Channery sandy |ML, SM, CL, |A-1-b, A-2, | --- | 0-10 |65-100|50-100|40-95  | | loam, channery| SC | A-4, A-6 | | | | |  | | clay loam, | | | | | | |  | | channery loam | | | | | | |  | 32-42 |Unweathered | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---  | | bedrock | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | | GyE: | | | | | | | | |  Gilpin----------| 0-10 |Silt loam |CL, CL-ML |A-4, A-6 | --- | 0-5 |80-95 |75-90 |70-85  | 10-29 |Silt loam, |CL, CL-ML, |A-2, A-4, A-6| --- | 0-30 |50-95 |45-90 |35-85  | | channery silty| GC, SC | | | | | |  | | clay loam, | | | | | | |  | | channery silt | | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | |  | 29-37 |Channery silty |GC, GC-GM |A-1, A-2, A- | --- | 0-35 |25-55 |20-50 |15-45  | | clay loam, | | 4, A-6 | | | | |  | | channery silt | | | | | | |  | | loam, channery| | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | |  | 37-47 |Unweathered | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---  | | bedrock | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | |  Lily------------| 0-4 |Loam |CL-ML, ML |A-4 | --- | 0-5 |90-100|85-100|70-95  | 4-28 |Loam, sandy |CL, ML, SC, |A-4, A-6 | --- | 0-5 |90-100|85-100|75-10 | | clay loam, | SM | | | | | |  | | clay loam | | | | | | |  | 28-32 |Channery sandy |CL, ML, SC, |A-1-b, A-2, | --- | 0-10 |65-100|50-100|40-95  | | loam, channery| SM | A-4, A-6 | | | | |  | | clay loam, | | | | | | |  | | channery loam | | | | | | |  | 32-42 |Unweathered | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---  | | bedrock | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | | ItF: | | | | | | | | |  Itmann----------| 0-12 |Channery clay |CL, ML |A-6 | --- | 0-10 |55-80 |50-75 |45-75  | | loam | | | | | | |  | 12-65 |Very channery |GC-GM, GM |A-1, A-2 | --- | 0-15 |30-55 |25-50 |20-45  | | sandy loam, | | | | | | |  | | extremely | | | | | | |  | | channery sandy| | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | | 
138

Table 15.--Engineering Index Properties--Continued

________________________________________________________________________________________________________ | | | Classification | Fragments | Percentage pass Map symbol | Depth | USDA texture |___________________________|_____________| sieve number- and soil name | | | | | >10 | 3-10 |____________________ | | | Unified | AASHTO |inches|inches| 4 | 10 | 40 _________________|_______|_______________|_____________|_____________|______|______|______|______|______ | In | | | | Pct | Pct | | |  | | | | | | | | | LaE: | | | | | | | | |  Laidig----------| 0-11 |Extremely stony|CL-ML, GC-GM,|A-4 | 5-20 |15-30 |65-90 |50-80 |45-80  | | loam | SC-SM, SM | | | | | |  | 11-42 |Channery loam, |CL, ML, SC, |A-2, A-4, A-6| 0-5 | 5-20 |70-95 |50-90 |40-80  | | channery sandy| SM | | | | | |  | | loam, channery| | | | | | |  | | silt loam | | | | | | |  | 42-65 |Channery loam, |CL-ML, GC, |A-2, A-4, A-6| 0-5 | 5-20 |50-90 |40-85 |30-80  | | channery sandy| GC-GM, SC | | | | | |  | | loam, very | | | | | | |  | | channery loam | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | | PGF: | | | | | | | | |  Pineville-------| 0-10 |Very stony loam|CL-ML, ML, |A-2, A-4 | --- | 3-15 |55-90 |50-85 |45-80  | | | SC-SM, SM | | | | | |  | 10-54 |Channery loam, |CL, CL-ML, |A-2, A-4, A-6| --- | 0-10 |55-85 |50-80 |45-75  | | very channery | SC, SC-SM | | | | | |  | | loam, channery| | | | | | |  | | clay loam | | | | | | |  | 54-65 |Very channery |SC-SM, SC, |A-1, A-2, A- | --- | 5-20 |35-75 |30-70 |25-65  | | loam, channery| GM, GC-GM | 4, A-6 | | | | |  | | loam, very | | | | | | |  | | channery sandy| | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | |  Gilpin----------| 0-10 |Very stony loam|CL, SC, GC, |A-2, A-4, A-6| --- |10-40 |50-90 |45-85 |35-75  | | | CL-ML | | | | | |  | 10-29 |Silt loam, |GC-GM, CL, |A-2, A-4, A-5| --- | 0-30 |50-95 |45-90 |35-85  | | channery silty| SC, CL-ML | | | | | |  | | clay loam, | | | | | | |  | | channery silt | | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | |  | 29-37 |Channery silty |GC, GC-GM |A-1, A-2, A- | --- | 0-35 |25-55 |20-50 |15-45  | | clay loam, | | 4, A-5 | | | | |  | | channery silt | | | | | | |  | | loam, channery| | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | |  | 37-47 |Unweathered | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---  | | bedrock | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | | 
139

Table 15.--Engineering Index Properties--Continued

________________________________________________________________________________________________________ | | | Classification | Fragments | Percentage pass Map symbol | Depth | USDA texture |___________________________|_____________| sieve number- and soil name | | | | | >10 | 3-10 |____________________ | | | Unified | AASHTO |inches|inches| 4 | 10 | 40 _________________|_______|_______________|_____________|_____________|______|______|______|______|______ | In | | | | Pct | Pct | | |  | | | | | | | | | PGF: | | | | | | | | |  Laidig----------| 0-11 |Extremely stony|GC-GM, SM, |A-4 | 5-20 |15-30 |65-90 |50-80 |45-80  | | loam | SC-SM, CL-ML| | | | | |  | 11-42 |Channery loam, |SM, SC, ML, |A-2, A-4, A-6| 0-5 | 5-20 |70-95 |50-90 |40-80  | | channery sandy| CL | | | | | |  | | loam, channery| | | | | | |  | | silt loam | | | | | | |  | 42-65 |Channery loam, |SC, GC, CL- |A-2, A-4, A-6| 0-5 | 5-20 |50-90 |40-85 |30-80  | | channery sandy| ML, GC-GM | | | | | |  | | loam, very | | | | | | |  | | channery loam | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | | Po: | | | | | | | | |  Pope------------| 0-10 |Sandy loam |CL-ML, ML, |A-2, A-4 | 0 | 0 |85-100|75-100|51-85  | | | SC-SM, SM | | | | | |  | 10-36 |Sandy loam, |CL-ML, ML, |A-2, A-4 | 0 | 0 |95-100|80-100|51-95  | | loam, fine | SC-SM, SM | | | | | |  | | sandy loam | | | | | | |  | 36-65 |Sandy loam, |GM, ML, SC- |A-1, A-2, A-4| --- | 0-20 |45-100|35-100|30-95  | | loamy sand, | SM, SM | | | | | |  | | gravelly sandy| | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | | Px: | | | | | | | | |  Pope------------| 0-10 |Sandy loam |ML, SC-SM, |A-2, A-4 | 0 | 0 |85-100|75-100|51-85  | | | CL-ML, SM | | | | | |  | 10-36 |Sandy loam, |CL-ML, SM, |A-2, A-4 | 0 | 0 |95-100|80-100|51-95  | | loam, fine | SC-SM, ML | | | | | |  | | sandy loam | | | | | | |  | 36-65 |Sandy loam, |ML, GM, SC- |A-1, A-2, A-4| --- | 0-20 |45-100|35-100|30-95  | | loamy sand, | SM, SM | | | | | |  | | gravelly sandy| | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | | 
140

Table 15.--Engineering Index Properties--Continued

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________ | | | Classification | Fragments | Percentage passin Map symbol | Depth | USDA texture |___________________________|_____________| sieve number--  and soil name | | | | | >10 | 3-10 |______________________ | | | Unified | AASHTO |inches|inches| 4 | 10 | 40 | _________________|_______|_______________|_____________|_____________|______|______|______|______|______|_ | In | | | | Pct | Pct | | | |  | | | | | | | | | | Px: | | | | | | | | | |  Craigsville-----| 0-8 |Gravelly sandy |SM, CL-ML, |A-2, A-4 | --- | 0-25 |65-90 |60-85 |40-75 | | | loam | SC, ML | | | | | | |  | 8-37 |Extremely |GC, SM, SC, |A-1, A-2, A-4| --- |25-60 |50-80 |30-65 |25-60 | | | gravelly sandy| GM | | | | | | |  | | loam, very | | | | | | | |  | | gravelly sandy| | | | | | | |  | | loam, very | | | | | | | |  | | gravelly loam | | | | | | | |  | 37-65 |Extremely |GM, GC-GM, |A-1, A-2 | --- |35-75 |35-55 |30-50 |20-45 | | | gravelly loamy| GC, GP-GM | | | | | | |  | | sand, very | | | | | | | |  | | gravelly loamy| | | | | | | |  | | sand, very | | | | | | | |  | | gravelly sandy| | | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | | | Ss: | | | | | | | | | |  Sensabaugh------| 0-9 |Silt loam |CL, CL-ML, ML|A-4 | --- | 0-5 |90-100|75-95 |65-85 | | 9-20 |Gravelly loam, |CL, CL-ML, |A-4, A-6 | --- | 2-18 |70-95 |55-90 |45-75 | | | gravelly silt | GC, SC-SM | | | | | | |  | | loam, gravelly| | | | | | | |  | | clay loam | | | | | | | |  | 20-33 |Very gravelly |GC, GC-GM, |A-4, A-6 | --- | 5-25 |70-90 |55-75 |45-65 | | | loam, gravelly| SC, SC-SM | | | | | | |  | | clay loam, | | | | | | | |  | | very gravelly | | | | | | | |  | | silt loam | | | | | | | |  | 33-65 |Gravelly loam, |GC, GC-GM, |A-2, A-4, A-6| --- | 5-30 |55-90 |25-75 |25-65 | | | gravelly clay | SC, SC-SM | | | | | | |  | | loam, gravelly| | | | | | | |  | | fine sandy | | | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | | | Ud: | | | | | | | | | |  Udorthents------| 0-3 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |  | 3-65 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |  | | | | | | | | | | 
141

Table 15.--Engineering Index Properties--Continued

________________________________________________________________________________________________________ | | | Classification | Fragments | Percentage pass Map symbol | Depth | USDA texture |___________________________|_____________| sieve number- and soil name | | | | | >10 | 3-10 |____________________ | | | Unified | AASHTO |inches|inches| 4 | 10 | 40 _________________|_______|_______________|_____________|_____________|______|______|______|______|______ | In | | | | Pct | Pct | | |  | | | | | | | | | VaD: | | | | | | | | |  Vandalia--------| 0-8 |Silt loam |CL, ML |A-4, A-6, A-7| --- | 0-5 |80-100|75-100|70-95  | 8-44 |Silty clay |CH, CL, ML |A-6, A-7 | --- | 0-5 |75-100|70-95 |65-90  | | loam, channery| | | | | | |  | | silty clay, | | | | | | |  | | silty clay | | | | | | |  | 44-65 |Channery silty |CH, CL, MH, |A-6, A-7 | --- | 0-5 |70-100|65-100|60-10 | | clay, silty | ML | | | | | |  | | clay, channery| | | | | | |  | | silty clay | | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | | | VaE: | | | | | | | | |  Vandalia--------| 0-8 |Silt loam |CL, ML |A-4, A-6, A-7| --- | 0-5 |80-100|75-100|70-95  | 8-44 |Silty clay |CH, CL, ML |A-6, A-7 | --- | 0-5 |75-100|70-95 |65-90  | | loam, channery| | | | | | |  | | silty clay, | | | | | | |  | | silty clay | | | | | | |  | 44-65 |Channery silty |CH, CL, MH, |A-6, A-7 | --- | 0-5 |70-100|65-100|60-10 | | clay, silty | ML | | | | | |  | | clay, channery| | | | | | |  | | silty clay | | | | | | |  | | loam | | | | | | | _________________|_______|_______________|_____________|_____________|______|______|______|______|______
142

Table 16.--Physical and Chemical Properties of the Soils

(Entries under "Erosion factors--T" apply to the entire profile)

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 | | | | | | | |Erosion factors|  Map symbol | | | Moist | Permea- |Available| Linear |Organic|_______________| Cation-  and soil name | Depth | Clay | bulk | bility | water |extensi- |matter | | | |exchange  | | | density | (Ksat) |capacity | bility | | K | Kf | T |capacity _________________|_______|______|_________|___________|_________|_________|_______|_____|_____|___|________ | In | Pct | g/cc | in/hr | In/in | Pct | Pct | | | |meq/100g  | | | | | | | | | | | AgB: | | | | | | | | | | |  Allegheny-------| 0-9 | 15-27|1.20-1.40| 0.57-1.98 |0.12-0.22| 0.0-2.9 |1.0-4.0| .32 | .32 | 4 | ---  | 9-49 | 18-35|1.20-1.50| 0.57-1.98 |0.13-0.18| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .28 | .28 | | ---  | 49-65 | 10-35|1.20-1.40| 0.57-1.98 |0.08-0.17| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .28 | .28 | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | | CeF: | | | | | | | | | | |  Cedarcreek------| 0-10 | 18-27|1.35-1.65| 0.60-6.00 |0.07-0.16| 0.0-2.9 |0.0-0.5| .32 | .43 | 5 | ---  | 10-65 | 18-27|1.35-1.65| 0.60-6.00 |0.07-0.16| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .32 | .43 | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | | Ch: | | | | | | | | | | |  Chavies---------| 0-9 | 7-18|1.20-1.40| 2.00-6.00 |0.11-0.18| 0.0-2.9 |0.5-4.0| .24 | .24 | 5 | ---  | 9-57 | 7-18|1.20-1.40| 2.00-6.00 |0.11-0.20| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .24 | .24 | | ---  | 57-65 | 7-18|1.30-1.50| 2.00-6.00 |0.08-0.18| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .24 | .24 | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | | FpF: | | | | | | | | | | |  Fairpoint-------| 0-4 | 18-27|1.40-1.55| 0.60-2.00 |0.09-0.16| 0.0-2.9 |0.0-0.5| .28 | .49 | 5 | 7.0-15  | 4-65 | 18-35|1.60-1.80| 0.20-0.60 |0.03-0.10| 3.0-5.9 |0.0-0.3| .28 | .64 | | 7.0-20  | | | | | | | | | | | GaF: | | | | | | | | | | |  Gilpin----------| 0-10 | 15-27|1.20-1.40| 0.60-2.00 |0.08-0.14| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .24 | .32 | 3 | ---  | 10-29 | 18-35|1.20-1.50| 0.60-2.00 |0.12-0.16| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .24 | .28 | | ---  | 29-37 | 15-35|1.20-1.50| 0.60-2.00 |0.08-0.12| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .24 | .32 | | ---  | 37-47 | --- | --- | 0.20-2.00 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | --- GuC: | | | | | | | | | | |  Gilpin----------| 0-10 | 15-27|1.20-1.40| 0.60-2.00 |0.12-0.18| 0.0-2.9 |0.5-4.0| .32 | .32 | 3 | ---  | 10-29 | 18-35|1.20-1.50| 0.60-2.00 |0.12-0.16| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .24 | .28 | | ---  | 29-37 | 15-35|1.20-1.50| 0.60-2.00 |0.08-0.12| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .24 | .32 | | ---  | 37-47 | --- | --- | 0.20-2.00 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | |  Upshur----------| 0-11 | 15-27|1.20-1.40| 0.60-2.00 |0.12-0.16| 3.0-5.9 |1.0-4.0| .43 | .43 | 4 | ---  | 11-42 | 40-55|1.30-1.60| 0.06-0.20 |0.10-0.14| 6.0-8.9 | --- | .32 | .32 | | ---  | 42-65 | 27-45|1.30-1.60| 0.06-0.20 |0.08-0.12| 3.0-5.9 | --- | .32 | .32 | | ---  | 65-75 | --- | --- | 0.00-0.20 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | | GuD: | | | | | | | | | | |  Gilpin----------| 0-10 | 15-27|1.20-1.40| 0.60-2.00 |0.12-0.18| 0.0-2.9 |0.5-4.0| .32 | .32 | 3 | ---  | 10-29 | 18-35|1.20-1.50| 0.60-2.00 |0.12-0.16| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .24 | .28 | | ---  | 29-37 | 15-35|1.20-1.50| 0.60-2.00 |0.08-0.12| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .24 | .32 | | ---  | 37-47 | --- | --- | 0.20-2.00 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | |  Upshur----------| 0-11 | 15-27|1.20-1.40| 0.60-2.00 |0.12-0.16| 3.0-5.9 |1.0-4.0| .43 | .43 | 4 | ---  | 11-42 | 40-55|1.30-1.60| 0.06-0.20 |0.10-0.14| 6.0-8.9 | --- | .32 | .32 | | ---  | 42-65 | 27-45|1.30-1.60| 0.06-0.20 |0.08-0.12| 3.0-5.9 | --- | .32 | .32 | | ---  | 65-75 | --- | --- | 0.00-0.20 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | | 
143

Table 16.--Physical and Chemical Properties of the Soils--Continued

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 | | | | | | | |Erosion factors|  Map symbol | | | Moist | Permea- |Available| Linear |Organic|_______________| Cation-  and soil name | Depth | Clay | bulk | bility | water |extensi- |matter | | | |exchange  | | | density | (Ksat) |capacity | bility | | K | Kf | T |capacity _________________|_______|______|_________|___________|_________|_________|_______|_____|_____|___|________ | In | Pct | g/cc | in/hr | In/in | Pct | Pct | | | |meq/100g  | | | | | | | | | | | GuE: | | | | | | | | | | |  Gilpin----------| 0-10 | 15-27|1.20-1.40| 0.60-2.00 |0.12-0.18| 0.0-2.9 |0.5-4.0| .32 | .32 | 3 | ---  | 10-29 | 18-35|1.20-1.50| 0.60-2.00 |0.12-0.16| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .24 | .28 | | ---  | 29-37 | 15-35|1.20-1.50| 0.60-2.00 |0.08-0.12| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .24 | .32 | | ---  | 37-47 | --- | --- | 0.20-2.00 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | |  Upshur----------| 0-11 | 15-27|1.20-1.40| 0.60-2.00 |0.12-0.16| 3.0-5.9 |1.0-4.0| .43 | .43 | 4 | ---  | 11-42 | 40-55|1.30-1.60| 0.06-0.20 |0.10-0.14| 6.0-8.9 | --- | .32 | .32 | | ---  | 42-65 | 27-45|1.30-1.60| 0.06-0.20 |0.08-0.12| 3.0-5.9 | --- | .32 | .32 | | ---  | 65-75 | --- | --- | 0.00-0.20 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | | GxF: | | | | | | | | | | |  Gilpin----------| 0-10 | 15-27|1.20-1.40| 0.60-2.00 |0.08-0.14| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .24 | .32 | 3 | ---  | 10-29 | 18-35|1.20-1.50| 0.60-2.00 |0.12-0.16| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .24 | .28 | | ---  | 29-37 | 15-35|1.20-1.50| 0.60-2.00 |0.08-0.12| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .24 | .32 | | ---  | 37-47 | --- | --- | 0.20-2.00 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | |  Upshur----------| 0-11 | 15-27|1.20-1.40| 0.60-2.00 |0.12-0.16| 3.0-5.9 | --- | .37 | .43 | 4 | ---  | 11-42 | 40-55|1.30-1.60| 0.06-0.20 |0.10-0.14| 6.0-8.9 | --- | .32 | .32 | | ---  | 42-65 | 27-45|1.30-1.60| 0.06-0.20 |0.08-0.12| 3.0-5.9 | --- | .32 | .32 | | ---  | 65-75 | --- | --- | 0.00-0.20 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | | GyC: | | | | | | | | | | |  Gilpin----------| 0-10 | 15-27|1.20-1.40| 0.60-2.00 |0.12-0.18| 0.0-2.9 |0.5-4.0| .32 | .32 | 3 | ---  | 10-29 | 18-35|1.20-1.50| 0.60-2.00 |0.12-0.16| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .24 | .28 | | ---  | 29-37 | 15-35|1.20-1.50| 0.60-2.00 |0.08-0.12| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .24 | .32 | | ---  | 37-40 | --- | --- | 0.20-2.00 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | | ---  Lily------------| 0-4 | 7-27|1.20-1.40| 0.60-6.00 |0.13-0.18| 0.0-2.9 |0.5-4.0| .28 | .37 | 2 | ---  | 4-28 | 18-35|1.25-1.35| 2.00-6.00 |0.12-0.18| 0.0-2.9 |0.1-0.5| .28 | .28 | | ---  | 28-32 | 16-34|1.25-1.35| 2.00-6.00 |0.08-0.17| 0.0-2.9 |0.1-0.5| .17 | .24 | | ---  | 32-42 | --- | --- | 0.00-0.20 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | | GyD: | | | | | | | | | | |  Gilpin----------| 0-10 | 15-27|1.20-1.40| 0.60-2.00 |0.12-0.18| 0.0-2.9 |0.5-4.0| .32 | .32 | 3 | ---  | 10-29 | 18-35|1.20-1.50| 0.60-2.00 |0.12-0.16| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .24 | .28 | | ---  | 29-37 | 15-35|1.20-1.50| 0.60-2.00 |0.08-0.12| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .24 | .32 | | ---  | 37-47 | --- | --- | 0.20-2.00 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | |  Lily------------| 0-4 | 7-27|1.20-1.40| 0.60-6.00 |0.13-0.18| 0.0-2.9 |0.5-4.0| .28 | .37 | 2 | ---  | 4-28 | 18-35|1.25-1.35| 2.00-6.00 |0.12-0.18| 0.0-2.9 |0.1-0.5| .28 | .28 | | ---  | 28-32 | 16-34|1.25-1.35| 2.00-6.00 |0.08-0.17| 0.0-2.9 |0.1-0.5| .17 | .24 | | ---  | 32-42 | --- | --- | 0.00-0.20 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | | 
144

Table 16.--Physical and Chemical Properties of the Soils--Continued

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 | | | | | | | |Erosion factors|  Map symbol | | | Moist | Permea- |Available| Linear |Organic|_______________| Cation and soil name | Depth | Clay | bulk | bility | water |extensi- |matter | | | |exchang | | | density | (Ksat) |capacity | bility | | K | Kf | T |capacit_________________|_______|______|_________|___________|_________|_________|_______|_____|_____|___|_______ | In | Pct | g/cc | in/hr | In/in | Pct | Pct | | | |meq/100 | | | | | | | | | | | GyE: | | | | | | | | | | |  Gilpin----------| 0-10 | 15-27|1.20-1.40| 0.60-2.00 |0.12-0.18| 0.0-2.9 |0.5-4.0| .32 | .32 | 3 | ---  | 10-29 | 18-35|1.20-1.50| 0.60-2.00 |0.12-0.16| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .24 | .28 | | ---  | 29-37 | 15-35|1.20-1.50| 0.60-2.00 |0.08-0.12| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .24 | .32 | | ---  | 37-47 | --- | --- | 0.20-2.00 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | | ---  Lily------------| 0-4 | 7-27|1.20-1.40| 0.60-6.00 |0.13-0.18| 0.0-2.9 |0.5-4.0| .28 | .37 | 2 | ---  | 4-28 | 18-35|1.25-1.35| 2.00-6.00 |0.12-0.18| 0.0-2.9 |0.1-0.5| .28 | .28 | | ---  | 28-32 | 16-34|1.25-1.35| 2.00-6.00 |0.08-0.17| 0.0-2.9 |0.1-0.5| .17 | .24 | | ---  | 32-42 | --- | --- | 0.00-0.20 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | | ItF: | | | | | | | | | | |  Itmann----------| 0-12 | 27-40|1.30-1.55| 0.60-6.00 |0.08-0.16| 3.0-5.9 |0.0-0.5| .37 | .37 | 5 | ---  | 12-65 | 4-15|1.00-1.30| 2.00-20.00|0.05-0.12| 0.0-2.9 |0.0-0.5| .32 | .43 | | --- LaE: | | | | | | | | | | |  Laidig----------| 0-11 | 7-27|1.20-1.40| 0.60-6.00 |0.08-0.12| 0.0-2.9 |2.0-4.0| .24 | .32 | 4 |  | 11-42 | 18-35|1.30-1.50| 0.60-6.00 |0.08-0.12| 0.0-2.9 |0.0-0.5| .24 | .28 | | ---  | 42-65 | 18-35|1.40-1.70| 0.06-0.60 |0.06-0.10| 0.0-2.9 |0.0-0.5| .17 | .20 | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | | --- PGF: | | | | | | | | | | |  Pineville-------| 0-10 | 15-25|1.00-1.30| 0.60-2.00 |0.12-0.18| 0.0-2.9 |0.5-5.0| .20 | .24 | 5 | ---  | 10-54 | 18-30|1.30-1.60| 0.60-2.00 |0.08-0.14| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .15 | .17 | | ---  | 54-65 | 15-30|1.30-1.60| 0.60-6.00 |0.06-0.14| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .15 | .20 | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | | ---  Gilpin----------| 0-10 | 15-27|1.20-1.40| 0.60-2.00 |0.08-0.14| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .24 | .32 | 3 |  | 10-29 | 18-35|1.20-1.50| 0.60-2.00 |0.12-0.16| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .24 | .28 | | ---  | 29-37 | 15-35|1.20-1.50| 0.60-2.00 |0.08-0.12| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .24 | .32 | | ---  | 37-47 | --- | --- | 0.20-2.00 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | |  Laidig----------| 0-11 | 7-27|1.20-1.40| 0.60-6.00 |0.08-0.12| 0.0-2.9 |2.0-4.0| .24 | .32 | 4 | ---  | 11-42 | 18-35|1.30-1.50| 0.60-6.00 |0.08-0.12| 0.0-2.9 |0.0-0.5| .24 | .28 | | ---  | 42-65 | 18-35|1.40-1.70| 0.06-0.60 |0.06-0.10| 0.0-2.9 |0.0-0.5| .17 | .20 | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | | Po: | | | | | | | | | | |  Pope------------| 0-10 | 5-15|1.20-1.40| 2.00-6.00 |0.10-0.16| 0.0-2.9 |1.0-4.0| .28 | .28 | 5 | ---  | 10-36 | 5-18|1.30-1.60| 0.60-6.00 |0.10-0.18| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .28 | .28 | | ---  | 36-65 | 5-20|1.30-1.60| 0.60-6.00 |0.10-0.18| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .28 | .20 | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | | Px: | | | | | | | | | | |  Pope------------| 0-10 | 5-15|1.20-1.40| 2.00-6.00 |0.10-0.16| 0.0-2.9 |1.0-4.0| .28 | .28 | 5 | ---  | 10-36 | 5-18|1.30-1.60| 0.60-6.00 |0.10-0.18| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .28 | .28 | | ---  | 36-65 | 5-20|1.30-1.60| 0.60-6.00 |0.10-0.18| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .28 | .20 | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | |  Craigsville-----| 0-8 | 5-15|1.20-1.40| 2.00-20.00|0.07-0.15| 0.0-2.9 |1.0-5.0| .17 | .28 | 3 | ---  | 8-37 | 5-15|1.30-1.60| 2.00-20.00|0.06-0.15| 0.0-2.9 |0.5-1.0| .17 | .28 | | ---  | 37-65 | 5-10|1.35-1.55| 6.00-20.00|0.04-0.09| 0.0-2.9 |0.5-1.0| .17 | .28 | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | | 
145

Table 16.--Physical and Chemical Properties of the Soils--Continued

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 | | | | | | | |Erosion factors|  Map symbol | | | Moist | Permea- |Available| Linear |Organic|_______________| Cation-  and soil name | Depth | Clay | bulk | bility | water |extensi- |matter | | | |exchange  | | | density | (Ksat) |capacity | bility | | K | Kf | T |capacity _________________|_______|______|_________|___________|_________|_________|_______|_____|_____|___|________ | In | Pct | g/cc | in/hr | In/in | Pct | Pct | | | |meq/100g  | | | | | | | | | | | Ss: | | | | | | | | | | |  Sensabaugh------| 0-9 | 8-25|1.25-1.40| 0.60-6.00 |0.12-0.18| 0.0-2.9 |1.0-3.0| .24 | .24 | 5 | ---  | 9-20 | 18-35|1.30-1.50| 0.60-6.00 |0.10-0.16| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .20 | .24 | | ---  | 20-33 | 12-35|1.30-1.50| 0.60-6.00 |0.10-0.15| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .17 | .24 | | ---  | 33-65 | 12-38|1.25-1.50| 0.60-6.00 |0.08-0.14| 0.0-2.9 | --- | .17 | .20 | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | | Ud: | | | | | | | | | | |  Udorthents------| 0-3 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |---| ---  | 3-65 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | | VaD: | | | | | | | | | | |  Vandalia--------| 0-8 | 20-35|1.20-1.50| 0.20-2.00 |0.12-0.18| 3.0-5.9 |1.0-3.0| .37 | .37 | 5 | ---  | 8-44 | 35-50|1.30-1.60| 0.06-0.60 |0.12-0.15| 6.0-8.9 | --- | .32 | .32 | | ---  | 44-65 | 27-50|1.30-1.60| 0.06-0.60 |0.08-0.12| 6.0-8.9 | --- | .32 | .32 | | ---  | | | | | | | | | | | VaE: | | | | | | | | | | |  Vandalia--------| 0-8 | 20-35|1.20-1.50| 0.20-2.00 |0.12-0.18| 3.0-5.9 |1.0-3.0| .37 | .37 | 5 | ---  | 8-44 | 35-50|1.30-1.60| 0.06-0.60 |0.12-0.15| 6.0-8.9 | --- | .32 | .32 | | ---  | 44-65 | 27-50|1.30-1.60| 0.06-0.60 |0.08-0.12| 6.0-8.9 | --- | .32 | .32 | | --- _________________|_______|______|_________|___________|_________|_________|_______|_____|_____|___|________
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

146

Table 17.--Soil Features

(See text for definitions of terms used in this table. Absence of an entry indicates that the feature is

 not a concern or that data were not estimated)

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 | Restrictive layer | | Risk of corrosion

 Map symbol |___________________________________________| Potential |_________________________

 and soil name | | Depth | | for | Uncoated |

 | Kind |to top | Hardness |frost action| steel | Concrete

_____________________|_________________|_______|_________________|____________|____________|____________

 | | In | | | |

AgB: | | | | | |

 Allegheny-----------| --- | --- | --- |Moderate |Low |High

 | | | | | |

CeF: | | | | | |

 Cedarcreek----------| --- | --- | --- |Moderate |Moderate |High

 | | | | | |

Ch: | | | | | |

 Chavies-------------| --- | --- | --- |Low |Low |Moderate

 | | | | | |

FpF: | | | | | |

 Fairpoint-----------| --- | --- | --- |Moderate |High |Moderate

 | | | | | |

GaF: | | | | | |

 Gilpin--------------|Bedrock | 20-40 |Moderately |Moderate |Low |High

 | (paralithic) | | cemented | | |

 | | | | | |

GuC: | | | | | |

 Gilpin--------------|Bedrock | 20-40 |Moderately |Moderate |Low |High

 | (paralithic) | | cemented | | |

 | | | | | |

 Upshur--------------|Bedrock | 40-70 |Weakly cemented |Moderate |High |Moderate

 | (paralithic) | | | | |

 | | | | | |

GuD: | | | | | |

 Gilpin--------------|Bedrock | 20-40 |Moderately |Moderate |Low |High

 | (paralithic) | | cemented | | |

 | | | | | |

 Upshur--------------|Bedrock | 40-70 |Weakly cemented |Moderate |High |Moderate

 | (paralithic) | | | | |

GuE: | | | | | |

 Gilpin--------------|Bedrock | 20-40 |Moderately |Moderate |Low |High

 | (paralithic) | | cemented | | |

 | | | | | |

 Upshur--------------|Bedrock | 40-70 |Weakly cemented |Moderate |High |Moderate

 | (paralithic) | | | | |

 | | | | | |

GxF: | | | | | |

 Gilpin--------------|Bedrock | 20-40 |Moderately |Moderate |Low |High

 | (paralithic) | | cemented | | |

 | | | | | |

 Upshur--------------|Bedrock | 40-40 |Weakly cemented |Moderate |High |Moderate

 | (paralithic) | | | | |

 | | | | | |

GyC: | | | | | |

 Gilpin--------------|Bedrock | 20-40 |Strongly cemented|Moderate |Low |High

 | (paralithic) | | | | |

 | | | | | |

 Lily----------------|Bedrock (lithic) | 20-40 |Indurated |None |Moderate |High

 | | | | | |

GyD: | | | | | |

 Gilpin--------------|Bedrock | 20-40 |Strongly cemented|Moderate |Low |High

 | (paralithic) | | | | |

 | | | | | |

 Lily----------------|Bedrock (lithic) | 20-40 |Indurated |None |Moderate |High

 | | | | | |

GyE: | | | | | |

 Gilpin--------------|Bedrock | 20-40 |Strongly cemented|Moderate |Low |High

 | (paralithic) | | | | |

 | | | | | |

 Lily----------------|Bedrock (lithic) | 20-40 |Indurated |None |Moderate |High

 | | | | | |
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

147

Table 17.--Soil Features--Continued

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 | Restrictive layer | | Risk of corrosion

 Map symbol |___________________________________________| Potential |_________________________

 and soil name | | Depth | | for | Uncoated |

 | Kind |to top | Hardness |frost action| steel | Concrete

_____________________|_________________|_______|_________________|____________|____________|____________

 | | In | | | |

ItF: | | | | | |

 Itmann--------------| --- | --- | --- |Moderate |High |High

 | | | | | |

LaE: | | | | | |

 Laidig--------------|Fragipan | --- |Noncemented |Moderate |Moderate |High

 | | | | | |

PGF: | | | | | |

 Pineville-----------| --- | --- | --- |Moderate |Low |High

 | | | | | |

 Gilpin--------------|Bedrock | 20-40 |Strongly cemented|Moderate |Low |High

 | (paralithic) | | | | |

 | | | | | |

 Laidig--------------|Fragipan | 30-49 |Noncemented |Moderate |Moderate |High

 | | | | | |

Po: | | | | | |

 Pope----------------| --- | --- | --- |Moderate |Low |High

 | | | | | |

Px: | | | | | |

 Pope----------------| --- | --- | --- |Moderate |Low |High

 | | | | | |

 Craigsville---------| --- | --- | --- |Moderate |Low |Moderate

 | | | | | |

Ss: | | | | | |

 Sensabaugh----------| --- | --- | --- |None |Low |Low

 | | | | | |

Ud: | | | | | |

 Udorthents----------| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | |

VaD: | | | | | |

 Vandalia------------| --- | --- | --- |Moderate |High |Moderate

 | | | | | |

VaE: | | | | | |

 Vandalia------------| --- | --- | --- |Moderate |High |Moderate

_____________________|_________________|_______|_________________|____________|____________|____________
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

148

Table 18.--Water Features

(Depths of layers are in feet. See text for definitions of terms used in this table. Estimates of

 the frequency of flooding apply to the whole year rather than to individual months. Absence of

 an entry indicates that the feature is not a concern or that data were not estimated)

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 | | | | Water table | Flooding

 |Hydro-| | |_______________|_________________________

 Map symbol and soil name |logic |Surface runoff| Month | Upper | Lower | Duration | Frequency

 |group | | | limit | limit | |

___________________________|______|______________|__________|_______|_______|____________|____________

 | | | | Ft | Ft | |

AgB: | | | | | | |

 Allegheny-----------------| B | Low |Jan-Dec | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | | |

CeF: | | | | | | |

 Cedarcreek----------------| C | Medium |Jan-Dec | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | | |

Ch: | | | | | | |

 Chavies-------------------| B | Very low |January | --- | --- | Very brief | Rare

 | | |February | --- | --- | Very brief | Rare

 | | |March | --- | --- | Very brief | Rare

 | | |April | --- | --- | Very brief | Rare

 | | |May | --- | --- | Very brief | Rare

 | | |June | --- | --- | Very brief | Rare

 | | |July | --- | --- | Very brief | Rare

 | | |August | --- | --- | Very brief | Rare

 | | |September | --- | --- | Very brief | Rare

 | | |October | --- | --- | Very brief | Rare

 | | |November | --- | --- | Very brief | Rare

 | | |December | --- | --- | Very brief | Rare

 | | | | | | |

FpF: | | | | | | |

 Fairpoint-----------------| C | Very high |Jan-Dec | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | | |

GaF: | | | | | | |

 Gilpin--------------------| C | High |Jan-Dec | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | | |

GuC: | | | | | | |

 Gilpin--------------------| C | Medium |Jan-Dec | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | | |

 Upshur--------------------| D | Very high |Jan-Dec | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | | |

GuD: | | | | | | |

 Gilpin--------------------| C | High |Jan-Dec | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | | |

 Upshur--------------------| D | Very high |Jan-Dec | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | | |

GuE: | | | | | | |

 Gilpin--------------------| C | High |Jan-Dec | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | | |

 Upshur--------------------| D | Very high |Jan-Dec | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | | |

GxF: | | | | | | |

 Gilpin--------------------| C | High |Jan-Dec | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | | |

 Upshur--------------------| D | Very high |Jan-Dec | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | | |

GyC: | | | | | | |

 Gilpin--------------------| C | Medium |Jan-Dec | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | | |

 Lily----------------------| B | High |Jan-Dec | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | | |

GyD: | | | | | | |

 Gilpin--------------------| C | High |Jan-Dec | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | | |

 Lily----------------------| B | High |Jan-Dec | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | | |

GyE: | | | | | | |

 Gilpin--------------------| C | High |Jan-Dec | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | | |
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

149

Table 18.--Water Features--Continued

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 | | | | Water table | Flooding

 |Hydro-| | |_______________|_________________________

 Map symbol and soil name |logic |Surface runoff| Month | Upper | Lower | Duration | Frequency

 |group | | | limit | limit | |

___________________________|______|______________|__________|_______|_______|____________|____________

 | | | | Ft | Ft | |

GyE: | | | | | | |

 Lily----------------------| B | High |Jan-Dec | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | | |

ItF: | | | | | | |

 Itmann--------------------| C | Medium |Jan-Dec | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | | |

LaE: | | | | | | |

 Laidig--------------------| C | Medium |January |2.0-4.1|3.8-6.7| --- | None

 | | |February |2.0-4.1|3.8-6.7| --- | None

 | | |March |2.0-4.1|3.8-6.7| --- | None

 | | | | | | |

PGF: | | | | | | |

 Pineville-----------------| B | High |Jan-Dec | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | | |

 Gilpin--------------------| C | High |Jan-Dec | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | | |

 Laidig--------------------| C | Medium |January |2.0-4.1|3.8-6.7| --- | None

 | | |February |2.0-4.1|3.8-6.7| --- | None

 | | |March |2.0-4.1|3.8-6.7| --- | None

 | | | | | | |

Po: | | | | | | |

 Pope----------------------| B | Very low |January | --- | --- | Brief | Occasional

 | | |February | --- | --- | Brief | Occasional

 | | |March | --- | --- | Brief | Occasional

 | | |April | --- | --- | Brief | Occasional

 | | |November | --- | --- | Brief | Occasional

 | | |December | --- | --- | Brief | Occasional

 | | | | | | |

Px: | | | | | | |

 Pope----------------------| B | Very low |January | --- | --- | Brief | Occasional

 | | |February | --- | --- | Brief | Occasional

 | | |March | --- | --- | Brief | Occasional

 | | |April | --- | --- | Brief | Occasional

 | | |November | --- | --- | Brief | Occasional

 | | |December | --- | --- | Brief | Occasional

 | | | | | | |

 Craigsville---------------| B | Negligible |January | --- | --- | Very brief | Occasional

 | | |February | --- | --- | Very brief | Occasional

 | | |March | --- | --- | Very brief | Occasional

 | | |April | --- | --- | Very brief | Occasional

 | | |May | --- | --- | Very brief | Occasional

 | | |November | --- | --- | Very brief | Occasional

 | | |December | --- | --- | Very brief | Occasional

 | | | | | | |

Ss: | | | | | | |

 Sensabaugh----------------| B | Very low |January |4.0-6.0| >6.0 | Very brief | Occasional

 | | |February |4.0-6.0| >6.0 | Very brief | Occasional

 | | |March |4.0-6.0| >6.0 | Very brief | Occasional

 | | |April |4.0-6.0| >6.0 | Very brief | Occasional

 | | | | | | |

Ud: | | | | | | |

 Udorthents----------------| --- | --- |Jan-Dec | --- | --- | --- | ---

 | | | | | | |

VaD: | | | | | | |

 Vandalia------------------| D | Very high |February |2.7-3.5|4.0-6.0| --- | None

 | | |March |2.7-3.5|4.0-6.0| --- | None

 | | |April |2.7-3.5|4.0-6.0| --- | None

 | | | | | | |

VaE: | | | | | | |

 Vandalia------------------| D | Very high |February |2.7-3.5|4.0-6.0| --- | None

 | | |March |2.7-3.5|4.0-6.0| --- | None

 | | |April |2.7-3.5|4.0-6.0| --- | None

___________________________|______|______________|__________|_______|_______|____________|____________
Soil Survey of Clay County, West Virginia

150

Table 19.--Classification of the Soils

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

 |

 Soil name | Family or higher taxonomic class

 |

_________________________|_________________________________________________________________________

 |

Allegheny----------------|Fine-loamy, mixed, semiactive, mesic Typic Hapludults

Cedarcreek---------------|Loamy-skeletal, mixed, active, acid, mesic Typic Udorthents

Chavies------------------|Coarse-loamy, mixed, active, mesic Ultic Hapludalfs

Craigsville--------------|Loamy-skeletal, mixed, superactive, mesic Fluventic Dystrochrepts

Fairpoint----------------|Loamy-skeletal, mixed, active, nonacid, mesic Typic Udorthents

Gilpin-------------------|Fine-loamy, mixed, active, mesic Typic Hapludults

Itmann-------------------|Loamy-skeletal, mixed, semiactive, acid, mesic Typic Udorthents

Laidig-------------------|Fine-loamy, siliceous, active, mesic Typic Fragiudults

Lily---------------------|Fine-loamy, siliceous, semiactive, mesic Typic Hapludults

Pineville----------------|Fine-loamy, mixed, active, mesic Typic Hapludults

Pope---------------------|Coarse-loamy, mixed, active, mesic Fluventic Dystrochrepts

Sensabaugh---------------|Fine-loamy, mixed, semiactive, mesic Dystric Fluventic Eutrochrepts

Udorthents---------------|Udorthents

Upshur-------------------|Fine, mixed, superactive, mesic Typic Hapludalfs

Vandalia-----------------|Fine, mixed, active, mesic Typic Hapludalfs

_________________________|_________________________________________________________________________
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