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.