NRCS Compost Test Suite
NRCS Certified Compost Test
The NRCS Certified Compost Test ensures your compost meets the standards set by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). This comprehensive analysis verifies that your product is a high-quality compost, suitable for soil amendment, erosion control, stormwater management, and other applications.
What is Compost?
Compost is defined as the product manufactured through controlled aerobic, biological decomposition of biodegradable materials. It undergoes mesophilic and thermophilic temperatures to significantly reduce pathogens and weed seeds (in accordance with EPA 40 CFR 503 standards) and stabilize carbon, making it beneficial for plant growth. Finished compost is typically screened to reduce particle size for better soil incorporation.
Related and Allowable Products:
The NRCS recognizes several compost-related products:
- Vermicompost/Worm Castings: Pre-composted feedstocks meeting EPA 40 CFR 503 standards.
- Digested Solids: Anaerobically digested materials composted post-digestion.
- Composted Mulch: Coarser compost used as surface mulch.
- Erosion Control Compost: Specialized compost for blankets, berms, and socks.
- Soil Remediation/Stormwater Management Compost: Coarser compost for soil incorporation in remediation and stormwater management applications.
Why Frequent Testing is Important:
Compost is a dynamic product that evolves over time. Regular testing helps manufacturers maintain consistent quality:
- Monthly Testing: For producers of over 17,501 wet tons/year.
- Bi-Monthly Testing: For producers of 6,201 to 17,500 wet tons/year.
- Quarterly Testing: For producers of under 6,200 wet tons/year.
Parameters Tested:
This test includes analysis of the following parameters:
| Moisture | pH | Total Nitrogen | Total Phosphorus |
| Total Potassium |
Total Sodium |
Total Calcium | Total Magnesium |
| Total Zinc |
Total Iron | Total Copper, | Total Manganese |
| C:N |
Sulfate as SO4 | Boron | Chloride |
| Cobalt | Selenium | Molybdenum |
Total Carbon |
* SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS *
Sample Size Required - 1 Gallon sized zip lock bag
Please ship these samples overnight in an insulated container with ice packs.
Sample Submission:
- Sample Size Required:
1 gallon-sized Ziploc bag.
- Shipping Instructions:
Ship samples overnight in an insulated container with ice packs to maintain integrity.
Turnaround Time:
- Results available within 10 business days.
Why Choose This Test?
The NRCS Certified Compost Test ensures:
- Quality Assurance: Verify your compost meets NRCS standards for agricultural and environmental use.
- Compliance: Ensure your compost aligns with EPA and NRCS guidelines.
- Market Confidence: Provide buyers with reliable data about your compost’s quality and suitability for specific applications.
Order your NRCS Certified Compost Test today and ensure your product meets the highest standards for quality and performance!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are your business hours?
Our office is open Monday thru Friday from 8 am to 5 pm. We do close for major holidays, so we recommend ordering your testing and sending your sample early if a holiday is coming up. You can always reach us by email. Just send us a message at info@tpslab.com
- When will I get my results?
We understand that you need your results as soon as possible. That is why we make sure to begin processing your samples as soon as they arrive at our laboratory. When the results are ready, we will email them to the email address you provided on your submittal form. The list below will give you an idea of our usual turnaround times.
Soil Tests: 5-7 Business days
Water Tests: 5 - 7 Business days
Plants Tests: 24 - 48 Hours
Compost Tests: 7 - 14 Business days
Fertilizer Tests: 3 - 5 Business days
Heavy Metals Test: 7 - 14 Business days
We offer a rush option for an additional 50% of the testing cost, but we would encourage you to give yourself time to test before you get to a point where a rush is needed.
