Why take soil samples?

Whether you are growing soybeans, wheat, vegetables, pasture, or lawn grass you need to know what level of soil fertility you are dealing with. Soil sampling is the most important stage in managing soil fertility. Having your soil tested takes the guesswork out of how much and what kind of fertilizer to use. It helps ensure fertile soil without excess fertilizer application or pollution of the environment. It can also save you money on purchasing unneeded fertilizer.

Sampling your soil is as easy as 1-2-3.

1. Pick up a soil test bag and sampling directions at the Lake of the Woods Soil and Water Conservation District office.

2. Collect the soil following the directions on the sample sheet.

3. Mail the sample along with payment to the University of Minnesota. Turnaround time for the results is about 2-3 weeks.

The Lake of the Woods Soil and Water Conservation office is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and is located in the Post Office Building in Baudette. For more information, call the SWCD at 218-634-1842 ext. 4 or visit the University of Minnesota Soil Testing website at soiltest.cfans.umn.edu.