If you are flying totally blind and need general info, try the web site of USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (formerly the Soil Conservation Service). There may be a field report for your area and contact information for the closest field office where you can get some idea of general conditions. http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/TECHNICAL/ This is no substitute for a site specific geotechnical investigation, and if you have expansive soils (entirely possible in Alabama) I would be leery of taking on this assignment without one.
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