The Threebear soil is the state soil of Idaho.  These soils are found in the forested mountains of north-central Idaho and have a mantle of volcanic ash up to ~45-cm thick.  This volcanic ash came from the eruption of Mount Mazama (now Crater Lake, OR) approximately 7,600 years ago.  Threebear soils also have a fragipan that restricts downward percolation of water.  As a result, a perched water table is usually present for 6-8 months of the year.  Western redcedar, Douglas-fir, and western white pine are common trees supported by Threebear soils.  This forest soil is mainly used for timber production and wildlife habitat.  

Threebear Profile

Landscape Picture