Paxton series: the state soil of Massachusetts

A United States Commonwealth located around 42.4°N and 71.4°W, Massachusetts is an area still rebounding from the last glacial retreat. Its official state soil is the Paxton series, which covers approximately 816,626 acres in the New England area, and accounts for approximately 7.5% of the land in the commonwealth. Paxton is formed around dense glacial till, comprised of eroded and compacted gneiss, granite, and schist. Typically found around convex slopes such as drumlins and ground moraines, it is notably absent in the Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket areas. Classified as coarse-loamy, mixed, active, mesic Oxyaquic Dystrudepts, the series is of relatively young development and falls under the order of Inceptisols. Texture of Paxton soils range from fine, sandy loam to coarser loam as they approach the lowest horizon. The soil is mostly sand with a small portion of silt and clay. A pedon will usually have 4 horizons (Ap, Bw1, Bw2, Cd), though some have more. All horizons are acidic and increase in gravel content with depth. The soil’s characteristics make it viable for uses including cultivation, light construction, and pastureland. Limitations can be correlated to some of the qualities that make them suitable for prime farmland. High holding capacity can generate seasonal perched water tables, and while this can be beneficial for agricultural purposes, it can also increase erosion and lead to anaerobic conditions. Frost expansion from harsh winters can also cause structural damage to housing projects, roadways, and septic systems. Conservation and management issues are related to loss of farmland and forested land. Thousands of acres have been lost to development of solar farms, and future solar needs could destroy significantly more land. While some areas implement dual uses—farming beneath solar panels—there is uncertainty about long-term effects on soil health and arability.