For use in LRRs R, S, T, and U; for testing in LRRs K and L.

A layer 5 cm (2 inches) or more thick, starting at a depth of 15 cm (6 inches) or less from the soil surface, with value of 3 or less and chroma of 1 or less. At least 70 percent of the visible soil particles must be masked with organic material when viewed through a 10x or 15x hand lens. This layer is underlain by a layer or layers with value of 4 or less and chroma of 1 or less to a depth of 30 cm or a spodic horizon.

User Notes: This indicator applies to soils with a very dark gray or black near-surface layer that is 5 cm (2 inches) or more thick and is underlain by a layer in which organic matter has been carried downward by flowing water (fig. 28). The mobilization and translocation of organic matter result in an even distribution of organic matter in the eluvial (E) horizon. The chroma of 1 or less is critical because it limits application of this indicator to only those soils that are depleted of iron. This indicator commonly occurs in hydric Spodosols, but a spodic horizon is not required. Observed without a hand lens, the masked sand particles appear to be closer to 100 percent masked with organic material when moist. Masked sand grains can disappear quickly if a soil has been drained or disturbed.