barito bajada
CalicheStone & Ground

Caliche

CaCO₃ hardpan layer

A cemented calcium-carbonate layer that can stop a shovel cold and ring like concrete. It also blocks drainage, so plant roots and septic both have to get through or around it — the single biggest surprise on most desert digs. Expect it; plan for a breaker bar or rented machine.

Key

Stops shovels or floods — watch when digging/siting
Barito Bajada — field notes from the desert