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answer 1710

Submitted by Gretchen on Mon, 07/09/2007 - 7:33pm
answer: 

As far as this librarian can determine, though home soil tests are available (see this OSHA report), it is difficult to figure out which ones/methods will provide definitive and reliable results for the average citizen. In addition, residents who wish to test in order to take action: remediate soil conditions or pursue legal avenues may wish to undertake testing that is certified.

So, as you mention, the first place to recommend low cost soil testing for lead, heavy metals, etc. is your local university agricultural extension office: LA soil testing Where basic tests can be performed for about $7 (however, there appears to be an additional charge for metals testing).

However, if the local extension service is overloaded, you may be able to send samples to other state extension offices for testing and advice. For example: Cornell will do soil testing with out of state samples, again for fairly low cost.

In addition, the Environmental Protection Agency maintains a lead help line and provides contacts for the question: QUESTION: Soil Testing for Heavy Metals

QUESTION: Soil Testing for Heavy Metals

Submitted by Anonymooose on Fri, 07/06/2007 - 9:27pm
question / pregunta: 

I'd like to know if there are any simple, low-cost, easy to use methods for detecting lead in soil. The process of detecting heavy metals in the soils in New Orleans is necessitating the use of University resources and I would like to find a way to detect lead (or other heavy metals, or petroleum chemicals) that all residents can use who aren't able to utilize the same resources.

Is there any such method?
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