Alaska: Soil labs by state

For Alaska homeowners, the University of Alaska Fairbanks Cooperative Extension Service is the main official source for soil-sampling guidance and result interpretation, but it explicitly says Extension does not offer soil testing services. UAF directs residents to collect samples, complete the lab request paperwork, and send the soil to a lab of their choice; Alaska residents can then use district Extension offices for Alaska-specific interpretation.

Checked against official sources on October 4, 2026. Rules and links change; confirm with the office listed before you act.

Official resources in Alaska

UAF Cooperative Extension — Soils

Official Alaska Extension page explaining that UAF does not test soil, listing recommended soil tests and current posted prices from outside labs.

UAF Cooperative Extension — Soil Sampling

Official instructions for Alaska gardeners on how to collect, dry, label, and submit soil samples.

UAF Cooperative Extension — Factors to Consider in Selecting a Soil Testing Laboratory

Official Alaska guidance on choosing a lab appropriate for Alaska soils and using Alaska-based fertilizer recommendations.

UAF Cooperative Extension — Find your nearest Extension office

Official district office finder for Alaska residents who want local Extension help interpreting soil-test results.

Key facts for Alaska

UAF Extension says it does not offer soil testing services. (UAF Soils page)
UAF says its agents can review soil-test results and help determine needed soil changes. (UAF Soils page)
UAF instructs homeowners to fill out the Soil Sample Information Sheet and the laboratory request forms, then send soil to the lab of their choice. (UAF Soil Sampling page)
UAF recommends air-drying samples within 24 hours before mailing when possible. (UAF Soil Sampling page)
On UAF's current soils page, Brookside Laboratories' recommended Alaska test S001AN is listed at $20.00 per sample. (UAF Soils page)
UAF's Extension office finder lists district offices including Fairbanks, Delta Junction, Nome, Dillingham, Kodiak, Kenai/Soldotna, Mat-Su/Copper River, Anchorage, Juneau, and Sitka. (UAF office finder)

What to do next

Use UAF's Soil Sampling instructions first, then mail the sample directly to the outside lab you choose.
After results arrive, contact your nearest UAF Extension district office for Alaska-specific interpretation rather than relying only on out-of-state fertilizer recommendations.
If you want the lowest posted routine option on UAF's current soils page, compare the listed recommended tests before mailing your sample.

Helpful guides

Soil sampling planner →

Do you serve Alaska? Get a featured listing for $30/month, clearly labeled as a paid placement.