Panoche Soil Series
USDA Code: CA0530
K-Factor
0.37
Soil Erodibility Factor
Texture Class
clay loam
Drainage Class
well drained
About Panoche
Deep, well drained soils formed in alluvium derived from marine sedimentary rocks. Calcareous throughout. Found on nearly level to gently sloping alluvial fans and plains on the west side of the San Joaquin Valley.
K factor values are sourced from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) SSURGO database.
Using Panoche 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
One of the most extensive soils of the western San Joaquin Valley, mapped in Fresno, Merced, Kings, and San Benito counties. Important for irrigated agriculture on the west side; managed salinity is a significant concern.
Counties Where Found
Panoche soil FAQ
What is the K factor for Panoche soil?
Panoche has a listed K factor of 0.37 in the Rapid RUSLE soil directory. Confirm final values against project specific soil survey data before submitting permit documents.
Where is Panoche soil found in California?
Panoche is mapped in Fresno, Kings, Merced, and other California counties. County mapping is based on available soil series data and should be verified for the exact project location.
How is Panoche used in RUSLE erosion calculations?
Use the Panoche 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 Panoche soil data
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