A push mower cutting the grass.

Maintaining your lawn plays an important role in protecting the health of our watershed. Without proper care, rainwater runoff can carry excess nutrients into nearby lakes, streams, and wetlands. One common source of nutrient runoff is overapplying fertilizer.

A soil test can help determine exactly how much fertilizer your lawn needs, leading to healthier grass and a healthier watershed. Soil testing can also save you money by helping you choose the right fertilizer and apply only the nutrients your lawn actually needs.

Keep in mind that there is a law restricting the use of phosphorus fertilizer; in most conditions it should not be used. Click here to find out what the exceptions are.

Soil Test Program

This program was piloted in the Holiday/Wing/Rose Lake subwatersheds in Minnetonka in 2023, and the subwatersheds of Arrowhead and Indianhead Lakes in Edina in 2024. These areas were chosen based on high levels of nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen found in these lakes. This program is part of a larger suite of projects to improve the health of these particular lakes. Visit our current studies page or current projects page to learn more.

If you would like to participate, the first step is to make sure your address is within the Nine Mile Creek Watershed here: Are You in the Watershed? If you are, please use the sign up form at the bottom of this page.

Participants will collect small soil samples from five areas of their lawn, combine them into one sample, and place it in a provided testing bag. Detailed instructions and materials will be provided after registration to make the process simple and easy to complete.

Participants will be responsible for collecting their own soil samples and delivering them to the district office, Discovery Point (12800 Gerard Dr., Eden Prairie). Samples can be dropped off anytime using the secure drop box located near the main entrance. District staff will deliver the samples to the U of M Soil Testing Laboratory for soil sample analysis.

*We are not able to reimburse you, so please go through our program to receive free soil testing. This program will run through August 24, 2026.*

Step by step instructions:

The soil sample dropbox is located around the column from the front door.
  1. Make sure your address is within the Nine Mile Creek Watershed
  2. Fill out the form below to let us know you want to participate.
  3. Check your email. You should receive an email in a few days with more detailed instructions.
  4. Wait for your soil test starter kit to arrive.
  5. Take a sample. This requires you to dig 5 small holes in your yard, collect soil from them, and put the soil in the provided sample bag.
  6. Drop off your soil sample at Discovery Point in Eden Prairie.
  7. Receive your results in an email in 3-4 weeks from the UMN.

Questions? Email GreenCorps member Rashi at greencorps@ninemilecreek.org.

Sign up form:

Fill out my online form.