Department of Agriculture: Soil and Water Testing Service
The Department of Agriculture offers free soil and water testing for both commercial and backyard farmers. Our laboratory, located at the main office, can test the pH levels and total dissolved solids of your soil samples.
Preparing Your Soil Samples
- Dry and Sieve: Please ensure your soil samples are dried and sieved to remove rocks, roots, and other large objects.
- Labelling: Each sample should be clearly labelled with your full name, contact number, the location of the soil, and the number of samples (up to 5) being submitted.
- Sample Limit: Each individual may submit up to 5 samples per day per location.
Processing and Reporting
- Turnaround Time: It typically takes 3-5 business days from the drop-off date to complete testing and generate a full report, which will include pH levels, total dissolved solids, and recommendations.
- Potential Delays: If samples are wet, contain debris, or are not labelled correctly, processing will be delayed as the department will need to dry and sieve the samples before testing.
Additional Information
This is just one of the methods we use for soil testing. Once testing is complete, leftover samples can be returned to you upon request.
