The soil evaluation portion of this Grassland Evaluation Contest was designed to teach the students how to use the Soil Survey report in making wise land-use decisions. All of the soils information needed to complete the Soils Scorecard is given in the detailed soil series description and tables in the Soil Survey report. County Soil Survey manuals are available upon request from the local Natural Resources Conservation Service.
The following is an example of how to use the Soil Survey report to complete the soil evaluation section of the Grassland Evaluation Contest.
General Soil Map
The general soil map, which is the color map preceding the detailed soil maps, shows the survey area divided into groups of associated soils called general soil map units. This map is useful in planning the use and management of large areas.
To find information about your area of interest, locate that area on the map, identify the name of the map unit in the area on the color-coded map legend, then refer to the section General Soil Map Units for a general description of the soils in your area.
Detailed Soil Maps The detailed soil maps follow the general soil map. These 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, which precedes the soil maps. Note the number of the map sheet, and turn to that sheet.
Locate your area of interest on the map sheet. Note the map unit symbols that are in that area. Turn to the Index to Map Units (see Contents), which lists the map units by symbol and name and shows the page where each map unit is described.
The Summary of Tables shows, which table has data on a specific land use for each detailed soil map unit. See Contents for sections of this publication that may address your specific needs.