Soil Analysis

Soil analysis is done in the area where you plan the system to go. By understanding the soil system and the hydrology of the site we can predict wastewater flow through the soil and into subsurface materials to design an onsite system that properly matches your site.

One of the main advantages of a soil evaluation over a percolation test(a traditional method of testing septic field areas) is that layers within the soil that severely limit the function of septic systems can be defined. Many states and counties no longer solely allow Perc Tests for determining septic system design and size as they are not nearly as reliable and do not identify soil characteristics that impact the system, weather conditions, and water tables.

The following is a list of registered professional engineers and/or soil consultants who have performed work in Jackson County. This was prepared as a mailing list and should not be considered a complete list of qualified persons performing this service. Please contact this department if you would like us to add your company to this list.

Soil Science/Soil Morphology Evaluation

Preferred by this department as it is a much more reliable indicator of how a system will perform in your soils. Identifies types of soils, soil characteristics, and limiting conditions. Can be done any time of the year.

A & E Soil Consultants, LLC – Tom Anderson/Steve Elmer

27560 Ebenezer Rd. Geneseo, IL 61254
Phone: 309-945-9090 / 866-945-9090
Fax: 309-945-9090
Email: aesoil@geneseo.net

Eastern Shore Soil Services – Bradley Cate

P.O. Box 411
7225 Scenic Bluff Rd. Savanna, IL 61074
Phone: 302-856-1853
Email: bradcate@easternshoreoil.com

Jackson County Health Department – Sanitarian**

201 W. Platt St. Maquoketa, IA 52060
Phone: 563-652-1729
Email: etownsend@jacksoncounty.iowa.gov
**(For Jackson County Licensed Onsite Wastewater Installer use only)

Percolation "Perc" Tests

Reliability varies with the season and weather conditions. Not accepted when the ground is frozen, saturated, or in drought conditions. Must be conducted in soil at the depth the system will be placed. Deep hole test required code.

OA Technical Services – Randy

4744 202nd St. Cascade, IA 52033
Phone: 563-852-5105

Buesing & Associates – Ken

1212 Locust St. Dubuque, IA 52001
Phone: 563-556-4389
Fax: 563-566-6717

A Professional Engineer must agree that work will be done in accordance with the Iowa DNR requirements outlined in Chapter 69 Private Sewage Disposal Systems Appendix B percolation Test procedure.

Environmental Health

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