14. fine-silty, mixed, superactive, mesic Pachic Ultic Haploxeroll
(Palouse series)

This soil is typical of the deep loessial soils found in eastern Washington and northern Idaho. Soil formation took place under native grassland vegetation of primarily Idaho fescue and bluebunch wheatgrass; however, very little native vegetation remains on areas of Palouse soil, due to the soil's high agricultural productivity.

The Bt horizons do not qualify as an argillic horizon in this soil because the increase in clay is too gradual. The mollic epipedon is quite thick, extending from the surface to an average depth of ~60 cm.

Crops grown on Palouse soils include winter wheat, barley, dry peas, and lentils. Erosion is a major concern for the use and management of these soils. For more information on the Palouse series, click here.

(scale is in decimeters)