Solution Analysis Tests and Fees for Research
Standard Analysis: Nitrate-nitrogen, ammonia-nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, sodium, chloride, iron, zinc, manganese, copper, boron, aluminum, electrical conductivity, pH, alkalinity and sodium adsorption ratio.
- In-State $12.00
- Out-of-State $25.00
*Optional Additional Tests:
- Molybdenum (Mo) $5.00
*Optional tests are available only in addition to the standard analysis, not as stand-alone tests.
Minimum Sample Volume:
No matter how precise and accurate an analytical method is, meaningful results are only as good as the sample itself. The most significant cause of poor statistical results in solution analysis is due to imprecise sample collection and preparation rather than analytical measurement. To obtain a representative sample, NCDA&CS strongly recommends a sample volume of 8-16 oz (~500 mL). Where this is not possible, please note the minimum sample volume required to perform each analysis (Table 1). Researchers that fail to submit the minimum of 75 mL will not receive the full standard analysis--pH, EC and alkalinity will be automatically omitted.
| Analytical Test | Minimum Volume (mL) |
|---|---|
| NO3-N, NH4-N, Cl | 15 |
| All other elements (P, K, Ca, etc.) | 15 |
| pH, EC, alkalinity | 50 |
Payment Methods
Reports are not released until paid in full.
- Check: Make checks payable to NCDA&CS.
- Credit card: Reports can be paid online via the customer report portal (PALS) by Visa or Mastercard when analysis is complete. If you have trouble and need to pay over the phone, you can reach out to our accounting department at (919) 664-1600 Option 3.
- Escrow account: To set up or add funds to an escrow account with the Agronomic Division, please contact the accounting department at (919) 664-1600 Option 3.
- Internal departmental or agency transfer: Contact the Agronomic Division accounting department at (919) 664-1600 Option 3.
Please direct all billing and payment questions to AgronomicAccounting@ncagr.gov or (919) 664-1600 Option 3.