Land-Grant University 📍 Amherst, MA (Accepts Samples Nationwide)

UMass Amherst CAFE Soil and Plant Nutrient Testing Lab

Routine test ($20) provides fertility recommendations and indicative lead screening; Total Sorbed Metals ($55) provides definitive EPA 3050B/6010 values. Serves clients nationwide.

Testing Scope & Analytical Methods

Direct Laboratory Fee

$20.00 (Verified Lab Fee)

Method: Routine Soil Fertility Analysis with Lead (Pb) Screen

[ESTIMATE] Total Out-of-Pocket: ~$25.00 (includes verified $20.00 fee + estimated $5.00 USPS Ground Advantage postage; actual postage varies by distance)

Full Heavy Metals Panel Option

$55.00

Total Sorbed Metals Test (EPA 3050B + 6010)

Turnaround & Out-of-State Eligibility

  • Expected Turnaround: 10-14 business days
  • Out-of-State Consumers Accepted: Yes, accepts mail-in samples from any US state.
  • Direct Contact: (413) 545-2311

Step-by-Step Sample Packaging Checklist

  1. Intake Requirement: 1 cup dry soil in a sealed plastic bag with crop code sheet and payment check
  2. Use a clean stainless steel trowel to collect 5 to 10 sub-samples from your garden or play area at a depth of 2 to 6 inches.
  3. Thoroughly mix sub-samples in a clean plastic container and allow to air-dry indoors on paper towels for 12–24 hours (do not bake or heat).
  4. Place 1 cup of dry soil into a sturdy plastic zipper-seal freezer bag. Seal tightly and label clearly with your name and sample location.
  5. Download the official submission slip using the link on the right, fill out the client questionnaire, enclose payment (or online order confirmation), and ship via USPS Ground Advantage ($4.50–$6.00).

Official Submission

Download the verified laboratory intake questionnaire, mailing address label, and fee instructions directly from the official laboratory portal.

Download Official Submission Form → Visit Official Lab Website
Fee Provenance & Source:
Verified from official UMass CAFE fee schedule: $20.00 Routine Soil Analysis with lead scan; $55.00 Total Sorbed Metals via EPA 3050B.
Last Verified: 2026-10-17
Official Published Fee Schedule →
Laboratory Contact:
UMass Amherst CAFE Soil and Plant Nutrient Testing Lab
Amherst, MA
Phone: (413) 545-2311