Soil Chemical & Physical
ASL provides comprehensive analytical services in the area of soil analyses, including fertility testing and environmental analyses. ASL also provides laboratory testing of soil samples for NRCS Nutrient Management Plans. Standard methods are used for all chemical and physical tests, including pesticide residue analyses. ASL participates in the North American Proficiency Testing Performance Assessment Program (NAPT-PAP). Special analysis of a wide variety of trace elements, toxic substances and organic compounds can be requested.
For information on soil sampling techniques, please contact the local county Extension educator in your area. ASL does not provide interpretations or recommendations for soil.
Submission
Sample submission can be made on a Sample Submission Form (print form, enter required information and enclose with your samples). When submitting samples, include a list of specific analyses to be performed and testing protocol desired (if known), estimated concentration levels, sample identification, special handling information, billing address, and name(s) of people who should receive copies of the report.
If no estimates of concentration are provided and a sample requires a number of analyses to be accurately reported, you may be subject to additional charges incurred in producing your results, as well as a significant time delay in reporting of results.
Preservation & Shipping
Contact us at 208-885-7081 or asl@uidaho.edu prior to submitting samples.
Collection of the sample is a critical step in any laboratory analysis. All samples should be submitted in appropriate containers and with suitable preservation. EPA Methods prescribe the appropriate preservation for the analysis to be performed and ASL is able to provide information on these requirements upon request. Preservation and filtering are available upon request for an additional charge.
Sample containers for inorganic analyses can be provided and we may be able to aid clients in determining the best method of shipment that provides timely, cost-efficient delivery of samples to the laboratory, maintaining the integrity of the sample components.
For most organic analyses, amber-colored glass containers are required. The cost of these bottles has been factored into the cost of analysis and are available to clients for no charge if they are returned containing samples to be analyzed.
Normal sample receiving hours (excluding holidays):
- Monday through Thursday: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Friday: 8 a.m. to noon
If extended times are required, please contact the laboratory for accommodation.
Hazardous Substances & Sample Retention
Any sample containing or suspected to contain a pathogen or substance that is considered hazardous must be clearly identified on the container and communicated to ASL before shipping. Samples that are determined to be hazardous waste may be returned to the client at the client's expense for proper disposal. Highly contaminated samples may be subject to an additional 100-300 percent surcharge.
Samples will be retained for 30 days after the date of reporting.
Reporting of Results
All results are reported on a Certificate of Analysis Report issued by ASL. The results can be sent by fax to the customer on request; otherwise they are mailed first class the first business day following analysis completion. Study reports may also be authored by ASL upon special request. Special formats or electronic data assembly and transmission can also be arranged and additional charges may apply. Raw data packages are available upon request and are subject to additional service charges.
Turn-around Time: Standard turn-around time is five to 15 business days. Some complex analyses or large sample batches may require more time. Rush analysis is available contingent upon prior arrangement with ASL.
Pricing: Call 208-885-7081 or email asl@uidaho.edu for specific pricing information.