Success StorySoil Test for Success



Soil Test for Success

Author: Matthew Adams

Planning Unit: Hardin County CES

Major Program: Soil testing

Plan of Work: Agriculture Technology

Outcome: Intermediate Outcome


The success of any crop requires planning and efficient use of all required resources. One of the most important resources in agriculture is fertilizer. Whether it is applied through a commercial product or an organic source such as animal manure, a baseline is needed to enable the producer to efficiently and economically apply any type of fertilizer. Soil testing is the only way to accurately set up this baseline.

The soil testing program in Hardin County has been free to residents since the 1980’s, but it is stronger than ever today. In 2021, Hardin County received 4729 soil samples. Currently, there are 3979 producers registered in the Hardin County Soil Testing Database who either currently use the program, or have used the program in the past. The Soil Testing Program in Hardin County touches a large percentage of the county’s 202,970 acres of farmland each year.

Hardin County Extension continues to grow the soil testing program through outreach and education. The importance of soil testing and proper soil testing techniques are taught at various production meetings and trainings throughout the year. Also, booths are set up at various trade shows and community events throughout the year with literature on soil testing and soil sample bags available for attendees.

In January of 2020, Hardin County began as a beta county for the new KERS based soil test program.  This has allowed Hardin County clientele to provide feedback on the new program, and develop reports that will hopefully be more user friendly, eye appealing and informational to farmers, gardeners and homeowners across the state.

The soil testing program in Hardin County continues to provide outreach and a vital service to producers across the county, creating a link between the farm and the university by providing a vital service to producers.







Stories by Matthew Adams


Retained Ownership Program Grows in Hardin County

about 5 years ago by Matthew Adams

With the recent downturn in cattle markets, many producers are left wondering what they can do to in... Read More


Rinse and Return Repeats

about 5 years ago by Matthew Adams

Pesticide usage is a necessary part of modern conventional agriculture. One issue with pesticide use... Read More


Stories by Hardin County CES


Parenting Classes Reunites Families in Hardin County

Parenting Classes Reunites Families in Hardin County

about 5 years ago by Chandra DeRamus

Summary: Kentucky has a population of about 4,454,000 citizens according to the United States Census... Read More


Nutrition Education Program Improves Health Outcomes for Citizens in Hardin County

Nutrition Education Program Improves Health Outcomes for Citizens in Hardin County

about 5 years ago by Chandra DeRamus

Obesity continues to be an issue across the United States. According to the State of Obesity organiz... Read More