Bale Soil Series
USDA Code: CA0038
K-Factor
0.28
Soil Erodibility Factor
Texture Class
loam
Drainage Class
well drained
About Bale
Deep, well drained soils formed in alluvium from mixed rock sources. Found on alluvial fans and flood plains with gentle slopes.
K factor values are sourced from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) SSURGO database.
Using Bale in a RUSLE calculation
For a California construction project, use the soil K factor with rainfall erosivity, slope length and steepness, cover management, and support practice inputs. The K factor represents the soil erodibility portion of the model, so selecting the soil series that matches the site is important for defensible stormwater documentation.
In a SWPPP workflow, the practical question is not just what soil type is mapped near the project. It is whether the mapped series, K factor, and drainage assumptions match the site evidence well enough to support the RUSLE or RUSLE2 calculation.
California Distribution
Found in Napa and Sonoma counties. Important vineyard soil in the Napa Valley.
Counties Where Found
Bale soil FAQ
What is the K factor for Bale soil?
Bale has a listed K factor of 0.28 in the Rapid RUSLE soil directory. Confirm final values against project specific soil survey data before submitting permit documents.
Where is Bale soil found in California?
Bale is mapped in Napa, Sonoma. County mapping is based on available soil series data and should be verified for the exact project location.
How is Bale used in RUSLE erosion calculations?
Use the Bale K factor as the soil erodibility input in RUSLE or RUSLE2, along with rainfall, slope, cover, and support practice factors for the site.
Calculate erosion risk with Bale soil data
Start a Rapid RUSLE project with this soil's K-factor (0.28) pre-loaded. Get accurate RUSLE erosion risk assessments in minutes.
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