What are the three key properties used to characterize soil?

The three key properties used to characterize soil, particularly in the context of On-Site Sewage Facilities (OSSF), are texture, drainage or groundwater presence, and depth or restrictive horizon.

• Texture refers to the size of the soil particles and their proportions, which influences the soil's ability to retain moisture and nutrients, as well as how well it can drain. Understanding texture is essential for determining how effectively a soil can support a particular sewage treatment system.

• Drainage or groundwater presence is critical in determining how quickly water can move through the soil and whether the soil can properly filter and treat effluent. It affects the soil's capacity to absorb water, which is vital for the operation of septic systems.

• Depth or restrictive horizon indicates how deep the soil extends before encountering a layer that may impede drainage or root growth. This property is crucial when designing and installing OSSF, as it impacts the design and placement of the system to ensure effective treatment and absorption of wastewater.

These three properties together help in assessing the suitability of soil for sewage disposal and treatment, thus ensuring compliance with health and environmental regulations.