How accurate is the soil survey data?
The soil survey data is accurate for the mapping model that was used to design the map units and their spatial location. Field soil scientist’s have long used a mental mapping model that has been designed with the scale of mapping, complexity of the survey area, and the typical uses of the soil survey in mind. This model is refined through field investigations until a firm understanding is achieved of the soil-landscape relationships. The soil-landscape relationships are then applied to the survey area. The problem with the mental mapping model is that lay persons not versed in field soil mapping will have a hard time understanding the reasons for placement of the map units.
