Over applying fertilizers to lawns, gardens and farm fields can lead to runoff of excess nutrients to our rivers, lakes, and streams. It can also contaminate the groundwater that we drink. Knowing the amount of nutrients that are available for plant growth is an important step in reducing runoff from over applications of fertilizer. Soil fertility information helps homeowners, gardeners, and farmers make any necessary applications of fertilizer without over applying. Soil testing is typically used to evaluate the Nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and acidity (pH) of the soil, but it also can also test for additional soil micronutrients if desired. For information on how to test your soil and where it can be analyzed, please see the documents below.