Niland Soil Series
K-Factor
0.28
Soil Erodibility Factor
Texture Class
loamy sand
Drainage Class
somewhat excessively drained
About Niland
Deep, somewhat excessively drained soils formed in eolian and alluvial deposits derived from mixed sedimentary and granitic rocks in the Colorado Desert. Found on stabilized dunes and sandy plains, slopes of 0 to 5 percent.
K factor values are sourced from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) SSURGO database.
Using Niland 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
Mapped in the eastern Imperial Valley near the Salton Sea. Named for the town of Niland. Low cohesion makes these soils susceptible to wind erosion; historically used for cotton and grain under furrow irrigation.
Counties Where Found
Niland soil FAQ
What is the K factor for Niland soil?
Niland 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 Niland soil found in California?
Niland is mapped in Imperial, Riverside. County mapping is based on available soil series data and should be verified for the exact project location.
How is Niland used in RUSLE erosion calculations?
Use the Niland 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 Niland soil data
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