Steep slopes, while found throughout the township, are concentrated in the northern half. These slopes provide a major impediment to creating roads and driveways to access potential building sites. These slopes also create numerous opportunities for lake view residential development. The southern half of the township contains larger contiguous areas that are composed of soils having slopes with a grade under 12% grade.

 

The "Maximum Slope Map" and "Topography in Meters Map" are helpful in determining the areas in which steep slopes may be encountered. The Maximum Slope Map is based upon the Antrim County Soil Survey and reflects the maximum slope that will be found for each soil type. Each soil type has the capability of withstanding a given amount of slope before it slumps or erodes resulting in a more gradual slope.

 

The "Topography in Meters Map" is derived from the USGS 7.5' Topographic Quadrangles Maps which provide the contours at 5 meter intervals. These maps do not provide a specific percentage of slope but a general idea can be obtained based upon the spacing between the topographic contour lines.

 

Actual onsite determinations will be necessary to determine the grade or degree of slope for a specific parcel of property.

 

Septic Limitations - The septic limitations map shows how well the lands within the township are suited for septic tank and tile field usage for the disposal of human wastes. Much of the land area which has moderate limitations for septic disposal (shown in green) is located on the ground which is rated as being the prime areas for the production of agricultural crops and timber. These areas are rated as moderate due to a slow percolation rate.

 

The areas depicted in yellow are rated severe for one of a number of reasons. These reasons can be a lack of filtration, steep slopes or wet conditions. Areas in red and purple are subject to two or more limiting factors.

 

The areas having a severe rating due to reasons of filtration, allow rapid movement of moisture through the soil which can result in ground water contamination should fuels, cleaning solvents, herbicides and pesticides or other materials, spill or be misapplied to the soil. Historically, these areas have been rated as excellent under the Antrim County Sanitary Code for the location of septic systems. To prevent the residents of these areas from drinking contaminated groundwater, the requirement exists for wells to have an isolating layer of clay or similar material to separate the potentially contaminated water from contact with drinking water.

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