Distribution of Entisols in Iowa
Author: Bradley Miller
This map shows the distribution of Entisols across Iowa. Entisols are very young soils with little to no profile development, often found in areas of recent deposition such as floodplains, steep slopes, and river valleys. These soils lack diagnostic horizons and are typically associated with dynamic landscapes undergoing frequent erosion or sedimentation.
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Source:
Aaron Sassman and Catherine DeLong, Burras Pedology Group
Department of Agronomy
Iowa State University
Interpretation:
Entisols are scattered throughout Iowa, especially along major river systems and in the Loess Hills. Their limited development makes them highly variable in terms of fertility, water-holding capacity, and management suitability. These soils often require careful land use planning and are sensitive to disturbance.
Resolution:
10-meter raster resolution; displayed as a statewide static image
Suggested Use:
Useful for identifying flood-prone or erosion-sensitive areas, informing conservation planning, and managing riparian or transitional zones. Also relevant in geomorphology and soil genesis studies.
References:
Natural Resource Conservation Service (2014) and Iowa Soil Properties and Interpretations Database (7.3)