WVU Organic Research Project
Soils
The soils on the farm are in the Dormont, Guernsy, and Tilsit series. Most of the research areas have slopes ranging from 0-8%.These soils are suited to cultivated crops, pasture and hay. The hazard of erosion is moderate in unprotected areas, and is a management concern. Where these soils are farmed, cultivating on the contour, using a rotation that includes hay crops, and returning crop residue to the soil helps control erosion and maintain fertility and tilth.
Soils Map (Northern Part)
Soils Map (Southern Part)
Dormont and Guernsey
The Dormont and Guernsy series are described together because they have no major differences in use or management. For both the surface layer is 9-10 inches (~25 cm), the subsoil is 34-35 inches (~90 cm), and the depth to bedrock is 48 inches (~120 cm) or more. Available water holding capacity is high, while permeability is moderately slow to slow. Potential for runoff is considered medium and natural fertility is moderate to high. Both soils have a seasonal high water table at about 1.5 to 3 feet (50-100 cm) below the surface.Tilset
The Tilsit series has a top layer of 7 inches (~18 cm) and a subsoil of 35 inches (~90 cm). The depth to bedrock is about 56 inches (~140 cm). Available water capacity is moderate and permeability is slow in the firm part of the subsoil. Where unlimed the soil is strongly to extremely acid. The soil has a seasonal high water table about 1.5 to 2.5 feet (50-75 cm) below the surface. Spring grazing should be deferred until the soil is firm and bare areas are seeded.Source: Soil Survey of Marion and Monongalia Counties, West Virginia
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