Analytical Sciences Laboratory

Sample submission can be made on a sample submission form (pdf) (print form, enter required information and enclose with your samples). When submitting samples, include a list of specific analyses to be performed and testing protocol desired (if known), estimated concentration levels, sample identification, special handling information, billing address, and name(s) of people who should receive copies of the report.

If no estimates of concentration are provided and a sample requires a number of analyses to be accurately reported, you may be subject to additional charges incurred in producing your results, as well as a significant time delay in reporting of results.

Preservation and shipping

Contact us at 208-885-7081 or asl@uidaho.edu prior to submitting samples.

Collection of the sample is a critical step in any laboratory analysis. All samples should be submitted in appropriate containers and with suitable preservation. EPA Methods prescribe the appropriate preservation for the analysis to be performed and ASL is able to provide information on these requirements upon request. Preservation and filtering are available upon request for an additional charge.

Sample containers for inorganic analyses can be provided and we may be able to aid clients in determining the best method of shipment that provides timely, cost-efficient delivery of samples to the laboratory, maintaining the integrity of the sample components.

For most organic analyses, amber-colored glass containers are required. The cost of these bottles has been factored into the cost of analysis and are available to clients for no charge if they are returned containing samples to be analyzed.

Normal sample receiving hours (excluding holidays):

• Monday through Thursday: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Friday: 8 a.m. to noon

If extended times are required, please contact the laboratory for accommodation.

Any sample containing or suspected to contain a pathogen or substance that is considered hazardous must be clearly identified on the container and communicated to ASL before shipping. Samples that are determined to be hazardous waste may be returned to the client at the client's expense for proper disposal. Highly contaminated samples may be subject to an additional 100-300% surcharge.

Samples will be retained for 30 days after the date of reporting.

Reporting of results

All results are reported on a Certificate of Analysis Report issued by ASL. The results can be sent by fax to the customer on request; otherwise they are mailed first class the first business day following analysis completion. Study reports may also be authored by ASL upon special request. Special formats or electronic data assembly and transmission can also be arranged and additional charges may apply. Raw data packages are available upon request and are subject to additional service charges.

Turn-around time: Standard turn-around time is five to 15 business days. Some complex analyses or large sample batches may require more time. Rush analysis is available contingent upon prior arrangement with ASL.

Pricing: Call 208-885-7081 or email asl@uidaho.edu for specific pricing information.

The primary objective of our quality system is data reliability. This objective is achieved by maximizing the precision and accuracy of analytical results and ensuring that all laboratory operations are in compliance with applicable quality standards. All work is conducted under a comprehensive Quality Management Plan that maintains compliance with applicable standards of ISO 17025 (General Requirements for the Competence of Testing and Calibration Laboratories).

ASL participates in several performance evaluation (PE) programs:

• North American Proficiency Testing Program for soil and plant analyses
• NAPT-Performance Assessment Program for compliance with NRCS State 590 NMP Standards
• National Blood Lead Proficiency Testing Program (Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene)

ASL's quality system includes the following elements:

• The consistent use of management-approved standard operating procedures for all laboratory operations, including personnel training, sample handling, analytical procedures, reagent preparation, documentation and equipment operation and maintenance.
• Quality control samples, such as blanks, blank spikes, duplicates and reference materials, are run with each analytical batch to ensure accuracy and precision. Whenever the analysis type permits, certified reference materials that are traceable to a national standards agency, such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), are analyzed.
• Each analytical batch receives supervisory and peer review for acceptance.
• Periodic laboratory audits by the Quality Assurance Unit to determine laboratory adherence to project protocols and the Laboratory Quality Management Plan.
• Participation in outside agency performance evaluation programs and analysis of check samples.

The Analytical Sciences Laboratory (ASL) at University of Idaho is committed to providing the highest quality analytical laboratory service and research support for:

• Enhancement of agricultural production and animal health management
• Environmental monitoring
• Food quality assurance support for consumers, producers, governmental agencies, agricultural groups and processors
• Recognition and dissemination of new knowledge

Values

We are progressive and responsive teaching, service and research organization with a staff that shares the following values:

• Commitment to client service: quality, efficiency, empathy and confidentiality of client information
• Current knowledge of agricultural industries, food quality and environmental concerns
• Partnership with agricultural industry, animal health workers and governmental agencies
• Academic standards: commitment to the advancement of analytical procedures, commitment to state-of-the-art competency
• Team work: unity, courtesy, open communications, commitment to the mission of the laboratory
• Personal leadership: positive attitude, enthusiasm, flexibility, motivation, initiative, personal growth, acceptance of responsibility at every level
• Trust, honesty, integrity and accountability

Soil analysis for USDA 590 nutrient management plans

In 2004, the North American Proficiency Testing (NAPT) Program initiated the Performance Assessment Program (PAP) for soil testing in the Western United States. The purpose of this program is to assess the analytical performance of laboratories conducting soil analysis for USDA 590 nutrient management plans (https://www.nrcs.usda.gov).

In February 2004, 21 laboratories enrolled in the NAPT-PAP Program. Nineteen laboratories have been evaluated, of which 15 have met the PAP program minimum requirements.

The University of Idaho Analytical Sciences Laboratory has successfully completed all requirements for NAPT-PAP compliance and is accredited for laboratory analysis in support of NRCS 590 Nutrient Management Plans.

We now offer the following soil test package for growers participating in the NRCS program:

Soil Nutrient Management Package (SNMP)

• pH (saturated paste)
• Electrical Conductivity (saturated paste)
• Nitrate (KCl extractable)
• Ammonium (KCl extractable)
• Available Phosphorous (Bray or Olsen)
• Available Potassium (acetate or bicarbonate extractable)
• Organic Matter (Walkley Black)