3. Capability Classification Factor

The capability classification system shows, in a general way, the suitability of soils for cropland. It is a three-tier interpretive system.  The highest category, class, gives a perspective of the suitability of map units for the broad kinds of uses commonly found on farms and ranches. There are eight classes designated by Roman numerals I through VIII. Classes I, II, III, and IV are suitable for mechanized production of common field crops if properly managed and for production of pasture and woodland. Classes V, VI, and VII are generally not suited to mechanized production of common field crops without special management, but are suitable for permanent cover such as grasses and trees. Areas in Class VIII are generally not suitable for crops, pasture or wood products without management that may be impractical. Class VIII areas may have potential for other uses such as wildlife habitat or recreation.

Capability subclass identifies the relative degree and kinds of limitations for these uses. In general, the fewer the limitations, the more suitable the soil is for mechanized farming systems to produce commonly grown crops, and the lower the costs of overcoming limitations. Subclass symbols include risk of erosion (e), wetness (w), shallow soil depth, droughty, or stony (s) and climate (c). Capability classifications are available in Section II-Cropland Interpretations of the FOTG, published soil survey reports, and electronically through the NRIS Soil Data Viewer. The third tier, capability unit is not applied uniformly in all soil survey areas. Therefore it will not be used in the LE rating.

Weight = 0.10

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