Nooksack
silt loam

Mapping Symbols: Nk

The Nooksack series consists of well drained soils that formed in alluvium in river valleys under conifers, hardwoods, and grasses at elevations from sea level to 500 feet. Slopes are 0 to 2%. The annual precipitation is 35 to 55 inches. The frost-free season is about 190 days.

Typical Profile:
Depth from Surface:
0 to 60 Inches: Very dark grayish brown, dark grayish brown, and grayish brown silt loam 

Permeability: Moderate

Rooting Depth: 60 inches +

Depth to Seasonal High Water Table: 3 to 4 feet

Available Water Holding Capacity: High

Runoff Potential: Slow 

Erosion and Slippage Hazard: Slight

Flooding Potential: Moderate to severe

Use and Management: Primary uses of this soil are for row crops and pasture. Pasture forage yields are 4.5 tons/acre/year and in drained Nooksack soils and 2.0 tons/acre/year in undrained Nooksack soils with good management. Wetness in the spring may limit access. Douglas-fir, Western Hemlock, Red Alder, and Bigleaf Maple are important tree species on all soil slope classes. This soil has moderate equipment limitations for site preparation and timber harvest because of its potential for wetness. The Nooksack soil has none to moderate recreational and severe engineering limitations due to its flooding potential.

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