Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Hello,
Trying to help my 4th grader with the science project that tests soil to determine if there are dangerous levels of lead in it. The DIY kit listed in the project on the science buddies website doesn’t have good reviews, and the universities listed to send the samples to aren’t doing these tests anymore.

Looking for suggestions on both a reliable DIY soil test kit and an actual lab to send the samples to once we have determined they contain lead at home.

Help would be much appreciated!!!

[Administrator added - link to project: https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science- ... local-soil ]

Hello!

Thank you for your post! There are soil test kits for lead available through online delivery or in-person in hardware stores. I am assuming the universities listed are not doing tests because of COVID-19, however, I have attached a link with states and universities that accept soil samples to test. According to Lowe’s website on soil testing, your local cooperative extension office can test your soil, which may include a small fee.

Here is the website from Lowe’s on soil testing: https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/test-and ... -your-soil

Here is a link to a list of states and their adjacent universities that do soil testing: https://gardeningproductsreview.com/sta ... n-offices/

I hope this was helpful to you and good luck on the science project!