Soil Surveys 

The soil survey provides the description, classification and mapping of soils in an area. 

The soil survey offers helpful information for many uses in the community :

• Planners, developers, engineers, and home buyers find the survey helpful to plan land use and select sites for construction.
• Farmers, foresters, and agronomists use it to evaluate soil potential for maximum food and fiber production.
• Teachers, conservationists, students, and others discover how to understand, protect, and enhance the environment through the soil survey.

Soil surveys can be accessed online through the United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Citizens are also invited to observe a hard copy of the Soil Survey of Dare County by visiting our office at the County Administration Building.

Soil Tests

Dare Soil and Water Conservation District and the NC State Cooperative Extension Office (Manteo) provide sample kits for homeowners, landscapers, horticulturists, farmers or business owners interested in analyzing their soil. Sample boxes with instructions are available in Manteo at the Soil & Water Office (County Administration Building) or at the Agriculture Extension office (Budleigh Dr., Manteo). Follow the instructions to collect, label, package, and mail your soil sample.

The soil is tested by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services in the Division of Agronomic Services. From April through November there is no charge. During peak testing season, from Thanksgiving to March, there is a $4 charge per soil sample. You can find more information from the state's Division of Agronomic Services.