Soil Food Web Analysis

Includes:

  • Consultation with a Technical Assistance Provider
  • Shadowing microscopy test of your soil
  • Soil report with biomass count of trophic levels of concern and statistical evaluation
  • Analysis of results that will give an understanding of which stage of succession your soil is, as well as the ideal organism counts you need predicated upon the crops you intend to grow

$150.00 – Price is per soil sample

$112.50 for members – Become a Member Today

What it is:

Is your soil biologically ready to support the crops you want to grow?

Our Soil Food Web Analysis helps you answer that question using microscopy. This test uses a compound microscope and a standardized method called shadowing microscopy to examine soil or compost samples. We provide:

  • A quantitative report with biomass counts of key microbial groups:
     Bacteria, Fungi, Protozoa, and Nematodes
  • A statistical analysis of these results
  • A clear interpretation of your soil’s successional stage
  • Target benchmarks based on the crops you plan to grow

We currently offer assessments for two materials:

  • Soil
  • Compost

Each has slightly different sampling instructions. See sample collection guide.

Note: Compost is often used as a microbial inoculant. But before applying it—especially in teas or extracts—make sure it has the right biology.

Healthy soil biology can improve:

  • Soil structure
  • Water infiltration and retention
  • Nutrient cycling and availability

See a sample test report and analysis

Steps you’ll take: 

  1. Fill out the Soil Services Request Form and submit
    The price of this test is for one soil test. If you are submitting multiple samples for testing, please indicate this on the form
  2. Indicate whether you’re submitting soil or compost, and how many samples
  3. A NOFA/Mass Technical Assistance Provider will contact you
     to help determine the best way to get your sample to us (mail or in-person)
    See sampling protocol here
  4. After analysis, you’ll receive:
    A full report
    Expert interpretation
    Tailored recommendations based on your crops and goals

Why do we recommend this test? 

Microbes are the foundation of soil health.

A diverse and balanced soil microbiome:

  • Decomposes organic matter, making nutrients plant-available
  • Builds soil structure and improves water retention
  • Protects plants from soil-borne pathogens
  • Boosts crop vigor and resilience
  • Links directly to human nutrition through healthier, more nutrient-dense food
  • Supports broader environmental functions like carbon sequestration and water purification

This test doesn’t just show you what’s in your soil—it shows you whether your soil is on the right biological trajectory for your growing goals.

Questions? Email [email protected]