Austin County landowners can have soil from hay meadows and pastures tested at reduced rates during the county’s annual Soil Testing Campaign, scheduled for Oct. 26 through Nov. 20.

The campaign is sponsored by the Beef and Forage Committees of Austin and Colorado counties. It is intended to help hay and livestock producers determine the type and amount of fertilizer their land needs before the next growing season.

A soil test provides information about available nutrients, soil pH and overall fertility. The results can help producers avoid applying too much or too little fertilizer and allow them to make decisions based on the needs of a particular field rather than relying on estimates.

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension describes soil testing as a cost-effective way to determine fertilizer and lime needs. Proper nutrient management can improve forage growth and quality while reducing unnecessary fertilizer expenses.

During the Austin County campaign, a routine soil analysis will cost $8 per sample. A routine analysis that includes micronutrient testing will cost $15 per sample.

Soil samples, payment and the required information forms may be submitted at any of the following locations:

  • Bellville: Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service of Austin County, 800 E. Wendt St.

  • Bellville: Bellville Farm & Ranch

  • Bellville: Linseisen’s Feed & Supply Inc.

  • Sealy: Steinhauser’s

  • New Ulm: 4M Farm & Feed

  • Industry: Lindemann’s Store

Soil sample bags and information forms are available at each collection location.

The testing campaign is particularly useful for producers planning fertilizer applications for hay fields or grazing pastures. Because hay production removes nutrients from a field each time the forage is cut and hauled away, regularly testing the soil can help producers maintain productive fields and make better use of fertilizer.

Samples must be submitted during the Oct. 26-Nov. 20 campaign period to receive the reduced testing rates.

For additional information, contact the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service office in Austin County at 979-865-2072.