Managing Global Resources for a Secure Future

2017 Annual Meeting | Oct. 22-25 | Tampa, FL

109238 Soil Testing Laboratory Analytical Performance - Results of the ISTA-LAP Program.

Poster Number 1011

See more from this Division: SSSA Division: Nutrient Management and Soil and Plant Analysis
See more from this Session: Nutrient Management and Soil and Plant Analysis General Poster

Monday, October 23, 2017
Tampa Convention Center, East Exhibit Hall

Robert O. Miller, Colorado State University, Colorado State University, Windsor, CO, Robert Charter, Charter Testing, Dwight, IL and Mike Lindaman, Central Analytical, Boone, IA
Abstract:
Soil testing is a critical component of nutrient management in the United States. The Illinois Soil Testing Association (ISTA), established a Laboratory Accreditation Program in 2011 for soil testing labs serving the state of Illinois and surrounding states. The program is based on a statistical assessment of soil test proficiency results of five soils from the ALP program submitted three times annually for soil analysis pH, phosphorus (three methods) and potassium (two methods). A participating lab is required to meet a minimum 80% performance score for each test method to become accredited. Failing laboratories must pass a retest with to maintain accreditation. Twenty-six labs are enrolled in the ISTA-LAP program and results indicate soil pH is the most consistent across laboratories, whereas Mehlich 3 extractable K the least. Five laboratories account for more than 50% of the soil test method failures (scores < 80%). Results will be presented on soil test method, individual laboratory and whole industry performance for sixty soils analyzed for the period 2012-2017.

See more from this Division: SSSA Division: Nutrient Management and Soil and Plant Analysis
See more from this Session: Nutrient Management and Soil and Plant Analysis General Poster