Cieneba Soil Series
USDA Code: CA0090
K-Factor
0.2
Soil Erodibility Factor
Texture Class
coarse sandy loam
Drainage Class
somewhat excessively drained
About Cieneba
Shallow to very shallow, somewhat excessively drained soils formed in residuum derived from granitic and related crystalline rocks. Lithic or paralithic contact within 12 inches. Found on strongly sloping to very steep mountains and hills, slopes of 15 to 90 percent.
K factor values are sourced from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) SSURGO database.
Using Cieneba 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
Extensively mapped in San Diego County in the Peninsular Ranges backcountry. Also occurs in Riverside County. High erosion hazard due to shallow depth, steep slopes, and periodic chaparral wildfire. Important for watershed and post-fire erosion assessment.
Counties Where Found
Cieneba soil FAQ
What is the K factor for Cieneba soil?
Cieneba has a listed K factor of 0.2 in the Rapid RUSLE soil directory. Confirm final values against project specific soil survey data before submitting permit documents.
Where is Cieneba soil found in California?
Cieneba is mapped in Los Angeles, Riverside, San Diego. County mapping is based on available soil series data and should be verified for the exact project location.
How is Cieneba used in RUSLE erosion calculations?
Use the Cieneba 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 Cieneba soil data
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