LEAD can be found in the soil of some gardens and outdoor play areas. It can come from industrial sites and historic, widespread use of leaded paint and gasoline. USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) will be at the Hardwick Farmers Market this Friday offering FREE lead screenings for soil. The screening takes ~20 minutes so you can drop your soil sample off and shop around the market while you wait. If your garden soil tests high for lead, you may be eligible to apply for funding to install raised garden beds.

If you miss this Friday, NRCS will be at the Montpelier Market this Saturday 6/8 offering the same service! They will be offering other screenings at farmers markets throughout the summer. Stop by the NRCS table to get a schedule of where lead screenings are and when.

How to prepare a sample -
1.) Pick a Location - like a garden, outdoor play area or other location where people are coming into contact with uncovered soil. Contaminated areas are commonly under the eves of houses or near roads.
2.) Dig - Using a trowel and gloves dig a small (4 in. wide) hole to 6 in. deep for gardens or 2 in. for play areas. Repeat this in a couple locations throughout the garden or play area.
3.) Mix - in a pail, mix the samples from the testing area using your trowel. Remove rocks and twigs.
4.) Bag - put about 1/2 cup of mixed soil into a plastic baggie. Label the baggie with its location.
5.) Repeat - feel free to bring a few samples from different areas.

Please email me with any questions you have. Hope to see you there!