On Saturday, July 13th, a team from the US EPA will test soil samples at the Coit Road Farmers Market from 10mAM-1 PM. The Market is located at 15000 Woodworth Rd, near East 152nd and Noble Rd in East Cleveland. Cuyahoga County residents are invited to bring soil samples from yards, gardens, recreation areas, or vacant lots to be tested on-site at no cost. Testing takes about 5 minutes. Testing will be done on a first-come, first-serve basis. Households can bring up to 5 samples. EPA staff will have information on improving garden or play area safety. All results are confidential.

Here’s how to prepare a sample for testing.

Step 1: Identify an area of interest (garden, play area, nearby vacant lots) for your soil sample.

Step 2: Collect Soil – For a large area, collect soil from 5-10 random spots in that area and combine in a clean container. For a small area, collect soil from 3 random spots. For a garden site, collect soil from the surface down to 6-8 inches deep. For a play area, Collect soil from the surface down to 1-2 inches deep

Step 3: Mix soil well in clean container.

Step 4: Remove pebbles, rocks, and roots, and let the sample dry in the air. Do not use a flame, oven or hairdryer to dry the soil!

Step 5: Transfer 1 – 2 cups of the mixed soil into a clean one-quart Ziplock bag. Label each bag with the source of the soil: location and type of area.

Additional soil-testing events will be held in Cleveland throughout the summer.

Saturday, July 27, 2024. 10 AM-1PM. Visit the Kentucky Gardens at West 38th and Franklin on Cleveland’s Ohio City with convenient access to residents of Stockyards and Detroit Shoreway. In addition to having soil samples tested, take a garden tour and get info on upcoming events.

Saturday, August 10, 2024. 1PM-4PM God’s Vision Foundation sponsors Family Fun Day at Stella Walsh Recreation Center located at 7345 Broadway Ave. Bring your soil samples for testing by EPA and get food, play games, and pick up service info from God’s Vision Foundation. Metro Health will be on hand for medical check ups.

Saturday, August 24, 2024 10AM-1PM Concerned Citizens Community Council. 13611 Kinsman Road. While you are getting your soil samples tested, visit the greenhouses, talk to the chickens and rabbits. tour the orchard and consult with local garden experts. “Putting Neighbor” Back in front of “Hood.”