Tools

1. Use clean plastic bottles (12 oz to 16 oz).
   The bottle should be durable and able to seal tightly. Do not mail water samples in glass bottles or plastic bags.
   Water sampling bottles are available at many Colorado State University Extension offices. Bottles may also be obtained directly from the laboratory by emailing soiltestinglab@colostate.edu or calling (970)491-5061. Please note that customers are responsible for the shipping cost of bottles.
2. Permanent marker
   Use a permanent marker to clearly label the bottle with your name, sample location, and any other required identification information.
   
3. Cooler and/or ice packs
   Use a small cooler or insulated container, along with ice packs if needed, to keep the sample cool during storage and transport. Proper cooling helps maintain sample integrity, especially if there is a delay between collection and delivery to the laboratory.
   

Sample Collection

To collect a sample for irrigation, livestock or household drinking water follow these steps:

1. Label the sample bottles
   Clearly label each bottle with your name, collection date and time, and sampling site using a permanent marker.
2. Flush the water source
   Select a faucet and run the water for five to ten minutes to flush out any water sitting in the plumbing system.
   For lakes, streams, or ponds, collect the sample from below the surface, avoiding surface debris.
3. Rinse the bottle
   Rinse the bottle three times using the water you are sampling.
   1. Fill the bottle about one third full.
   2. Screw on the cap and shake gently.
   3. Pour out the water completely.
   4. Repeat this process two more times to ensure the bottle is well rinsed.
4. Fill the sample bottle
   After rinsing, fill the bottle completely to the top to minimize air space. Screw the cap on tightly to prevent leakage during transport.
5. Refrigerate the sample until you are ready to mail or drop it off at the laboratory.

Prepare Sample for shipping

1. Fill out the submission form
   Ensure all required information is complete and that the sample name on the form matches the label on the bottle.
   
2. Place bottle(s) in a plastic bag
   This prevents potential leaks from damaging the submission form or packaging.
   
3. Place the bottle(s) and submission form in a sturdy cardboard box
   Use a durable box that can withstand shipping.
   
4. Ship samples with insulation or an ice pack
   To maintain temperature, include insulating material and/or an ice pack.
   When shipping, collect samples later in the afternoon and ship them the same day via overnight delivery to ensure they arrive at the laboratory within 30 hours of collection and meet temperature requirements.
   
5. Seal and ship the package
   Seal the box securely with packing tape and mail it to the address listed on the submission form.

Soil samples may be submitted in person or mailed to the laboratory. When mailing samples, place the sample(s) and the completed submittal form into a sturdy box. Seal the package securely with packing tape and mail it to the address listed on the submittal form.

You will receive the soil testing report within 7 to 10 business days after the laboratory receives your sample.

Dropping or Mailing Address:
Soil Water and Plant Testing Lab
Terra Building T 3-16
4780 National Western Drive
Denver, CO 80216

Payment

Payment is expected at the time of sample submission. Purchase orders are accepted for city offices, landscape companies, crop and environmental consultants, schools, and universities.

When samples are mailed, they must be accompanied by a check or money order made payable to Colorado State University for the total amount due.

If samples are dropped off in person at the laboratory, payment may be made by credit or debit card.

For questions regarding purchase orders, invoicing, or payment, contact the SWPTL at soiltestinglab@colostate.edu.