Trace Element Contamination in Urban Soils: Testing and Management

Authors

Melissa Chilinski, Utah State University
Melanie Stock, Utah State UniversityFollow
Paul R. Grossl, Utah State UniversityFollow
Eli Oliver, Utah State University

Document Type

Factsheet

Author ORCID Identifier

Melanie Stock: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7379-4687

Journal/Book Title/Conference

Soils

Volume

01

Publisher

Utah State University

Publication Date

6-2024

First Page

1

Last Page

5

Abstract

Trace elements, often referred to as heavy metals, naturally occur in the soil at low levels. Certain land use histories can elevate the concentrations of trace elements to levels that present health risks. Understanding which elements and soil test values may impact human or crop health is an important aspect of gardening and micro-farming, particularly in urban environments that are at increased risk of soil contamination. This fact sheet provides instructions on interpreting soil test results for trace elements through the Total Element Composition EPA 3050B Soil Test (#S19) at Utah State University Analytical Laboratory.

Comments

Updated 2024-06-14

Recommended Citation

Chilinski, Melissa; Stock, Melanie; Grossl, Paul R.; and Oliver, Eli, "Trace Element Contamination in Urban Soils: Testing and Management" (2024). All Current Publications. Paper 2261.
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/extension_curall/2261