PLYMOUTH COUNTY, MASSACHUSETTS SOIL SURVEY UPDATE

Norwell Soils: Very deep, nearly level, poorly drained soil formed in compact glacial till derived mainly from granite, gneiss and schist. Norwell soils are on upland depressions and drainageways.

Link to Official Series Description
 

Map Unit (s): 049A, 049B
Map Phases:

  • 049A Norwell sandy loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes, extremely stony.
    049B Norwell sandy loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes, extremely stony
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    Taxonomic Classification: Sandy, mixed, mesic, Aeric Epiaquents.
    Drainage Class: Poorly drained.
    Parent Material: Dense till.
    Permeability: Moderately rapid to rapid in the solum, slow in the substratum.
    Available Water Holding Capacity: Low.
    Soil Reaction: Extremely acid to moderately acid throughout.
    Depth to Bedrock: Greater than 65 inches.
    Seasonal High Watertable: Depth: 0.0 to 1.5 feet below the surface.
    Type: Perched.
    Months: November to May.
    Hydrologic Group: C.
    Hydric Soil: Yes.
    Flooding/Ponding Potential: Frequency and Type: Commonly ponded (A slopes).
    Duration and Months: Brief to long, December to March.
    Potential Inclusions: Ridgebury and Mattapoisett soils are similar inclusions. Very poorly drained Whitman and Brockton soils are on lower elevations. Moderately well drained Scituate and Birchwood soils are on higher elevations.

    Soil Suitability:

    Agriculture: Poorly suited for most agricultural uses mainly due to wetness.

    Woodland: Poorly suited due to wetness.

    Development: Poorly suited due to seasonal high watertables at or near the surface for prolong periods of time.

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