Can the lab test for soil contaminants?
The UConn Soil Nutrient Analysis Laboratory routinely screens samples which are submitted for the standard nutrient analysis for estimated total soil lead. We also analyze for available copper and zinc. If determination of other heavy metals or organic contaminants such as pesticides, PCBs, petroleum based products, etc. is required, turn to the numerous environmental testing labs in the state of Connecticut. Look up Environmental Testing Laboratories in the yellow pages to find a lab near you. Also, you can follow this link to the State of Connecticuts Department of Public Health website for a list of state approved environmental testing labs. Keep in mind that there are tens of thousands of different substances in the environment but no single test that will screen for all of them. A laboratory needs to know what substance(s) to look for. Sometimes site history will suggest what analyses to request.
