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  • Students examining soil profiles in the field

    Students examining soil profiles in the field

  • Earth and Environmental Sciences undergraduates take a excursion to the marshes in Jamaica Bay

    Earth and Environmental Sciences undergraduates take a excursion to the marshes in Jamaica Bay

  • Brooklyn College participates in SoilSHOP event in Newburgh

    Brooklyn College participates in SoilSHOP event in Newburgh

  • Brooklyn College faculty and students in the 3MUGIS International Summer Field School in Russia

    Brooklyn College faculty and students in the 3MUGIS International Summer Field School in Russia

  • Part of the Brooklyn College Soil Judging Team

    Part of the Brooklyn College Soil Judging Team

  • A snapshot of the Urban Soils Lab

    A snapshot of the Urban Soils Lab

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  • Urban Soils Lab at Brooklyn College

Urban Soils Lab at Brooklyn College

Our lab is open. Due to COVID-19 access restriction, samples must be mailed in, or pre-arranged drop off for large batches (e-mail soil@brooklyn.cuny.edu to arrange).

The affordable soil testing service is offered as part of Brooklyn College's commitment to community service. We accept samples from all states within the United States. By requesting this service, the customer agrees that the data may be used for statistical analysis and research purposes. The customer's identity and address will be kept confidential.

  • Collect soil samples following Sampling Instructions (pdf).
  • Download and complete the Submission Form (doc) for each sample. Print your e-mail clearly—that is how we submit your results. Clearly label each sample bag in your package so that they match the respective submission forms. Each sample requires a separate submission form (one sample per submission form). Calculate the payment amount and indicate method of payment.
  • Print the completed submission form(s) and place in a package with the soil sample(s), along with a check or money order made out to Brooklyn College Departments (ESAC). Cash is also accepted if dropping off in person.

Results will be e-mailed to you within two weeks, depending on the requested parameters.

Tests, Test Packages, and Fees

Test Packages (Recommended for urban gardeners)

  • Soil Lead Screening and pH Test—$20. Soil samples are screened for lead and tested for pH. 
  • Basic Soil Quality Test—$55. Soil samples are tested for (1) pH; (2) salt content; (3) soil class; (4) NPK levels; (5) lead screening); and (6) organic content.

Single Tests

  • Lead XRF screening—$10. Recommended for a screening of contamination.
  • pH Test—$10. The pH is determined using a 1:1, V:V method.
  • Soil Class (Texture)—$10. Soils are categorized according to USDA soil textural classifications using the Jar Method.
  • Soluble Salts—$10. Total soluble salts is determined using a 1:2, V:V electrical conductivity method.
  • NPK kits—$10. N-P-K kits assign the levels of nutrients (high, medium or low).
  • Organic content—$12. The percent of organic matter in soil or compost is determined by the loss on ignition method.

Forms and Instructions

  • Submission Form (doc)
  • Sampling Instructions (pdf)
  • Healthy Soils, Healthy Communities | Science-based information about soil contaminants and healthy gardening practices (cornell.edu)
  • Join us on Facebook: BCUrbanSoilsLab
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Urban Soils E-Newsletter

If you are not receiving our quarterly e-newsletters, please subscribe by completing the signup form.


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Fall 2022 COVID-19 Guidelines

Fall 2022 COVID-19 Guidelines

Prepare for a crucial transition for the fall 2022 semester.

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Outstanding Professors

Our highly trained faculty are leaders in their fields. Come learn from them.

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Housing Options

Learn about housing options that are available in Brooklyn. 

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