Beginners review of the Web Soil Survey

Using the USDA Web Soil Survey was a new experience for me. I have not used a program like this before, gathering data on the soil structure and related aspects of a study area. Listening to the video tutorial was very thorough and had information on the different tabs, exploring through the survey’s information. With my limited knowledge of soils, I found some of the information overwhelming and the video touched on using the Glossary, a tab along the top of the site, to better understand. I thought having the Glossary was very helpful, but also a little overwhelming as there were so many terms. But the language was clear and concise, so definitely an added bonus. 

My study area of Singapore was not a part of the Web Soil Survey as it is not a part of the United States. So to gain a better understanding of the resource, I used where I lived in SW Washington. It was interesting to learn about the different soils that make up the area as well and understand what those soils mean, in relation to the different characteristics that make it up such as drainage or flooding.

By listening and watching the video and switching over the actual site, it was nice to learn alongside, following the Four Basic Steps: 

  1. Use Area of Interest (AOI) tab - you can look up general areas, or type in a specific address

  1. Click the Soil Map tab - this provides the different types of soils within you AOI and provides you information about them

  1. Click the Soil Data Explorer tab - provides soil data and suitability for your particular use

  1. Use the Shopping Cart tab - this one was a little confusing because nothing is purchased, it is just for you to download or print your report.


This program would be a great resource to determine the correct, or best, habitat for a particular species, especially if translocating to increase population size. It could also be a source of information in any kind of building or construction projects. Overall, the Web Soil Survey is a very informative resource if your interested in learning about the various aspects of soil composition.


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