What is the primary agricultural use of Class 5 soils?

Class 5 soils are primarily designated for permanent pasture due to their physical and chemical characteristics, which typically do not support the intensive management or high productivity required for annual or perennial crops. These soils often have limitations such as poor drainage, low fertility, or a tendency to compact easily, making them unsuitable for growing a variety of crops.

Permanent pasture allows for the sustainable grazing of livestock and can thrive under lower management input. This use aligns with the natural capabilities of Class 5 soils, as they can maintain vegetation and contribute to soil conservation without facing the challenges that would come from harvesting annual crops or more intensive farming methods.

In contrast, annual crops require better drainage and fertility that Class 5 soils typically lack, while perennial forage crops, although more suitable than annual crops, still demand soil conditions beyond what Class 5 provides for optimal growth. Non-agricultural use does not reflect the intended agricultural capacity of these soils, as their main role is to support agricultural practices, specifically grazing. Thus, recognizing the primary use of Class 5 soils as permanent pasture aligns with their characteristics and limitations observed in agricultural practice.