Saturation within 12
inches of surface To observe this indicator dig a pit in the soil
to a depth of 16 inches note the level at which water stands
after a period of time. (Amount of time will depend on the
soil texture).This level represents the depth to the water
table. For this saturation to impact vegetation it should
occur within 12 inches of the surface.
CAUTION: In some heavy clay soils, water may not rapidly
accumulate in the hole even when the soil is saturated. If
water is observed at the bottom of the hole but has not
filled to the 12-inch depth, examine the sides of the hole
and determine the shallowest depth at which water is
entering the hole. When applying this indicator, both the
season of the year and preceding weather conditions must be
considered.
