[Image: Soil map]Definition: Soils maps are aerial photographs on which the soil types are delineated. Soils are classified and mapped and the maps are published by the Natural Resources Conservation Service into a book called a soil survey. A soil survey can be obtained at your local NRCS office.
Use for soil maps:
- Plan routes
- Avoid problem areas such as wet areas
- Plan where and how to cross streams
- Estimate slopes that may be encountered
- Determine drainage patterns
Soil surveys and soils maps are important planning tools, but an on-site check of the exact soil type and slope is essential.