Community Gardens Soil Testing Program
Judson Reid, Extension Vegetable Specialist
Cornell Vegetable Program
Soil testing supports the growth and expansion of community gardens by protecting the health and safety of the food produced in these gardens. CCE Harvest NY, in partnership with the NYS Department of Agriculture & Markets (AGM) and the Cornell Soil Health Lab, is offering eligible, food-producing gardens in New York State the opportunity to send soil samples for testing without charge.
The soil test will analyze samples for heavy metals and nutrient levels. Test results help gardeners make appropriate plans to produce high quality fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Technical support and education for participating growers will be available from the CCE Harvest New York team.
A soil test will be made available to eligible applicants in order of receipt of complete application, until funding is exhausted. Shipping costs associated with sending soil samples to the Cornell Soil Health Lab will also be covered under this funding. The Harvest NY team can work with the grower for this part of the process. Please contact the Harvest NY specialist in your area for more information. (See Application for contact emails.)
For program details, download the Community Gardens Soil Testing Program 2026 Program Rules and the Application. Questions regarding this program should be submitted to Mallory Hohl, Program Coordinator, at mdh286@cornell.edu.

Upcoming Events
2026 Rochester Urban Agriculture Conference
March 21, 2026
Rochester, NY
Join us for our annual Rochester Urban Agriculture Conference, a day of learning and connections featuring interactive workshops, community knowledge sharing, Fruition's Gift of Seed Experience, horticulture tables and displays, and more!
Virtual Farm Food Safety Training
March 30, 2026
Learn about food safety on the farm! This online event will cover good agricultural practices (GAPs) for produce growers to help reduce the risk of microbial contamination on the farm, keeping food and consumers safe.