Soils that are poorly or very poorly drained have a high water table and frequent saturation that causes these soils to have an appearance and properties that are distinctly different from better drained upland soils. As a result of these characteristics, such soils (either organic or mineral) are called "hydric." Ipswich, Rippowam, and Wallkill are hydric soils. The amount of oxygen in wet soils is reduced or depleted. The surface layer is commonly thick and dark; the subsoil has distinctly gray colors (Fig. 12).

Figure 12. Root development, soil colors, water table depth, and drainage class in different parts of the landscape.

Hydric soils are saturated, flooded, or ponded long enough during the growing season to develop anaerobic conditions that favor the growth and regeneration of hydrophytic (water-loving) vegetation. Marshes (Ipswich and Wallkill soils) and frequently flooded areas (Rippowam soil) are wetlands if they contain hydric soils and have hydrophytic plants and meet the hydrology requirements. Vegetated wetlands improve water quality, trap eroded sediment, and provide wildlife habitat.