Hancock County SWCD has the soil survey for Hancock County available on CD ROM or hard copy.

The product of a cooperative effort between ODNR, USDA, Hancock SWCD, and Hancock County Commissioners, the SSURGO Digital Soil Survey 2.1 for Hancock County represents a leap forward in soils information.

Numerous improvements have been made over the 1973 paper copy soil survey.  The SSURGO version is a complete revision and update to the previous edition.  The most notable differences are the updated aerial photography and the absence of index maps.  Users are now able to view any point in the survey, eliminating the problem of fields located on multiple map sheets.  Several new soil types have been mapped and others have been eliminated due to compliance with national soil survey standards.

Users are also able to perform operations that weren’t possible to do with a paper copy.  Tools in the program allow the user to measure field areas and distances, and view several pre-made maps that display drainage class, surface texture, and other properties of soils without the need to refer to the text of the survey.  Should users wish to view the tables or text, all 540 pages are also on the CD.

Clients are cautioned that this CD was developed for people who use the soil survey on a regular basis.  Users should have a basic knowledge of GIS software and windows programs in order to avoid frustration as it will take several hours to become familiar with the software.  If you need just a map or two, it may be best to stop in the office for assistance.

Copies are available from the Hancock SWCD office for a cost of ten dollars.  The CD includes all software and data needed to access, view, and print the soils information.