UGA Extension Office

Agriculture & Natural Resources

Testing Services

Soil Testing

If you have questions about your lawn, garden, trees, etc. we always suggest starting with a soil test.

It is not necessary to come by and pick up the bags first. You may bring your DRY sample into our office in plastic bags, or even in a bucket!  We will transfer it over to our UGA soil bags. Make sure you bring enough: about 2 cups per sample.

The cost per sample is $10.00 (cash or check) and the results are either emailed or mailed. We are open Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 5:00; we do close from 12:00-1:00 for lunch.

For more about how determine your sampling area, etc., check here

Water Testing

Public and municipal water supplies are routinely tested and must meet standards established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Therefore, these sources usually do not need to be tested unless inhouse contamination is suspected. However, only YOU are responsible for the safety of your well water.

When you pour yourself a glass of water to drink, it may appear clean, taste good, and you may expect it to be safe. However, many sources of water we assume are safe may contain dissolved minerals, organic compounds or even live organisms at harmful concentrations. Contaminated water used for drinking and cooking may affect your health. This concern merits a bacterial test:

  • Total Coliform / E. coli (Colilert®) - $36.00 (plus $10 for UPS label/shipping)
    This test requires the sample be collected and shipped in a special bottle. Come by our office to get your kit, which includes bottle, instructions, and box; also pick up a special discounted UPS overnight label to use  ($10 at the office).  Follow the instructions to pull your sample, enclose a check for $36 inside the box, and ship to the lab. Sampling must be done on a Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday, and must be received at the lab in Athens WITHIN 24 HOURS of sampling.