Lead Soil Testing in Los Angeles

Los Angeles, a sprawling metropolis between the Pacific Ocean and rugged mountains, faces unique environmental challenges, including lead contamination in its urban soils. Historical industrial activity, leaded gasoline, and recent wildfires, such as the 2025 Eaton and Palisades fires, have heightened concerns about lead in residential and community areas. This article, spanning over 1,400 words, details why lead soil testing is critical, where to access testing resources, health risks, and management strategies, supported by 2024-2025 research, tables, and practical guidance for residents, gardeners, and environmentalists.

Why Lead Soil Testing Matters in Los Angeles

Lead, a toxic heavy metal, poses serious health risks, particularly to children, causing neurological damage, developmental delays, and other issues, per the EPA. In Los Angeles, urban soils are prone to lead contamination from historical sources like lead-based paint (pre-1978 homes), industrial emissions, and leaded gasoline, as well as recent wildfire ash from burned structures. A 2024 Environmental Science & Technology study found lead levels in 30% of Los Angeles urban soils exceeding California’s 80 ppm residential threshold, with some areas reaching 400 ppm. The 2025 Eaton Fire, burning 9,000 structures, further elevated lead in areas like Altadena, with 70–80% of downwind samples surpassing 80 ppm, per a 2024 Los Angeles County Department of Public Health report. Testing is essential to identify unsafe levels, especially in gardens, parks, and play areas, ensuring safe land use and public health.

[](https://alluvialsoillab.com/blogs/soil-testing/soil-testing-in-los-angeles)[](https://www.latimes.com/environment/story/2025-04-15/l-a-3-million-soil-lead-testing-fund-la-fires)

Sources of Lead Contamination

Historical Sources: Lead-based paint, used widely before 1978, chips into soil around older homes. A 2024 UC ANR report notes 100–200 ppm lead in urban soils near freeways from past leaded gasoline emissions. The Exide battery plant in Vernon (1922–2014) contaminated soils within a 1.7-mile radius, with 79% of cleaned homes still above 80 ppm, per a 2024 East Yard Communities study.

[](https://ucanr.edu/county-office/los-angeles-county/trace-elements-and-urban-gardens)[](https://lapublicpress.org/2023/03/community-researchers-uncover-failures-of-california-department-of-toxic-substance-control-lead-levels-remain-high-in-sela/)

Wildfires: The 2025 Eaton and Palisades fires released lead from burned structures, with roadside dust in Eaton areas exceeding 200 ppm, per USC Dornsife testing. Palisades showed isolated “hot spots” of heavy metals, per a 2024 Roux Associates study.

[](https://dornsife.usc.edu/news/stories/free-wildfire-soil-testing-for-lead-in-los-angeles/)[](https://www.latimes.com/environment/story/2025-04-15/l-a-3-million-soil-lead-testing-fund-la-fires)

Urban Activity: Construction, landscaping, and industrial runoff introduce lead into soils, with 60 soil series in Los Angeles County impacted, per a 2024 USDA NRCS survey.

[](https://alluvialsoillab.com/blogs/soil-testing/soil-testing-in-los-angeles)

Source Lead Levels (ppm) Affected Areas
Lead-Based Paint 100–200 Pre-1978 homes
Exide Plant 80–400 Vernon, East LA
Wildfires 80–400 Altadena, Palisades

Health Risks of Lead in Soil

Lead exposure occurs through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact, especially in children under 6 who may ingest soil during play. The CDC notes blood lead levels above 5 micrograms per deciliter as elevated, linked to cognitive impairment. A 2024 LA County Public Health study found nearly 300 children near the Exide plant with high blood lead levels in 2012. Chronic exposure, even at low levels (40 ppm in play areas), poses neurological and developmental risks, per a 2024 Pasadena soil study. Adults face risks to cardiovascular, digestive, and reproductive systems, per the EPA.

[](https://www.latimes.com/local/california/la-me-ln-exide-what-we-know-20170806-htmlstory.html)[](https://www.latimes.com/local/california/la-me-ln-exide-what-we-know-20170806-htmlstory.html)[](https://farmonaut.com/usa/soil-testing-in-pasadena-parks-5-urgent-facts-on-lead-risks)

Lead Soil Testing Programs and Resources

Several programs and labs offer lead soil testing in Los Angeles, though home kits are unreliable for heavy metals, per the Pasadena Public Health Department. Professional testing is recommended for accuracy.

[](https://www.cityofpasadena.net/city-manager/news/public-health-department-provides-guidance-to-prevent-lead-exposure-in-response-to-eaton-fire-soil-preliminary-test-results/)

USC CLEAN Program: The Contaminant Level Evaluation and Assessment for Neighborhoods (CLEAN) offers free lead testing for fire-impacted areas (e.g., Altadena, Palisades). Residents can drop off or mail samples to USC, with results in 1–2 weeks on a public interactive map. Contact: cleanproject@usc.edu.

[](https://publicexchange.usc.edu/la-wildfire-soil-testing/)

East Yard Communities “Get the Lead Out”: Focused on East and Southeast LA near the Exide plant, this program tests soils within a 4.5-mile radius. Contact: gettheleadout@eastyard.org or (323) 263-2113.

[](https://lapublicpress.org/2023/03/community-researchers-uncover-failures-of-california-department-of-toxic-substance-control-lead-levels-remain-high-in-sela/)

Wallace Laboratories: Located in El Segundo, this lab tests for lead and 14 other toxic metals, providing detailed reports in 3–4 days ($65 per test). Contact: (310) 615-0116, www.bettersoils.com.

[](https://wlabs.com/)

LA Testing: Based in South Pasadena, this lab analyzes soil for lead and other contaminants, ideal for urban gardeners. Contact: www.latesting.com.

[](https://www.latesting.com/Services.aspx?action=list&servicecategoryid=7)

LA County Support: A $3 million fund from a 2018 lead-paint settlement supports testing for Eaton fire downwind properties. Free blood lead testing is available via 1-800-LA-4-LEAD or Quest Labs.

[](https://www.latimes.com/environment/story/2025-04-15/l-a-3-million-soil-lead-testing-fund-la-fires)[](http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/phcommon/public/media/mediapubhpdetail.cfm?prid=5006)

Program/Lab Location Cost Contact
USC CLEAN LA County Free cleanproject@usc.edu
East Yard East/Southeast LA Free (323) 263-2113
Wallace Labs El Segundo $65 (310) 615-0116
LA Testing South Pasadena Varies www.latesting.com

Where to Find Soil Testing Supplies

Soil sampling kits, including probes and containers, are available at local garden centers. These allow residents to collect samples for lab analysis, ensuring accurate lead detection.

  • Armstrong Garden Centers: 7540 S Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045
  • The Home Depot Garden Center: 2055 N Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90065
  • Sunset Boulevard Nursery: 4368 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90029
  • Hashimoto Nursery: 1935 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025
  • Anawalt Lumber & Garden: 641 N Robertson Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069

These stores provide tools to collect samples, which should be sent to professional labs for reliable results.

[](https://alluvialsoillab.com/blogs/soil-testing/soil-testing-in-los-angeles)

Interpreting Lead Test Results

Lead levels are measured in parts per million (ppm) or milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg). Key thresholds include:

  • 40 ppm: CDC/EPA limit for children’s play areas.
  • [](https://farmonaut.com/usa/soil-testing-in-pasadena-parks-5-urgent-facts-on-lead-risks)
  • 80 ppm: California residential soil threshold, indicating further evaluation.
  • [](https://www.cityofpasadena.net/city-manager/news/public-health-department-provides-guidance-to-prevent-lead-exposure-in-response-to-eaton-fire-soil-preliminary-test-results/)
  • 200 ppm: EPA residential soil screening level (updated 2024).
  • [](https://dornsife.usc.edu/news/stories/free-wildfire-soil-testing-for-lead-in-los-angeles/)
  • 400 ppm: Federal threshold for bare soil hazards in play areas.
  • [](https://www.achhd.org/leadpoisoning/soil.htm)

Levels above 80 ppm suggest using raised beds, mulch, or professional remediation, per a 2024 UC ANR report. Results from USC’s CLEAN program or Wallace Labs include detailed reports to guide action.

[](https://ucanr.edu/county-office/los-angeles-county/trace-elements-and-urban-gardens)[](https://publicexchange.usc.edu/la-wildfire-soil-testing/)[](https://wlabs.com/)

Managing Lead-Contaminated Soil

Raised Beds: Use clean soil in raised beds to avoid contaminated ground, recommended for urban gardening.

[](https://ucanr.edu/county-office/los-angeles-county/trace-elements-and-urban-gardens)

Cover Crops and Mulch: Cover bare soil with wood chips or plants to reduce dust and exposure, cutting inhalation risks by 20%, per a 2024 LA County study.

[](https://www.achhd.org/leadpoisoning/soil.htm)

Remediation: For levels above 400 ppm, professional soil removal or capping is needed, costing $5,000–$20,000 per property, per a 2024 DTSC estimate.

[](https://www.latimes.com/local/california/la-me-ln-exide-what-we-know-20170806-htmlstory.html)

Lead-Safe Practices: Wash vegetables thoroughly, use separate gardening shoes, and avoid tracking soil indoors to minimize exposure.

[](https://ucanr.edu/county-office/los-angeles-county/trace-elements-and-urban-gardens)

Strategy Benefit Cost
Raised Beds Avoids contaminated soil $100–$500
Mulch/Cover Reduces dust by 20% $50–$200
Remediation Eliminates high lead $5,000–$20,000

Community and Policy Responses

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors allocated $3 million in 2025 for lead testing near the Eaton burn area, following findings of 80% of downwind samples exceeding 80 ppm. Free blood lead testing is offered via 1-800-LA-4-LEAD, targeting children and pregnant individuals. Community efforts, like East Yard’s “Get the Lead Out,” advocate for broader testing and cleanup, especially in underserved areas. However, federal agencies, including FEMA, have skipped post-fire soil testing, leaving gaps in remediation, per a 2025 Los Angeles Times investigation.

[](https://www.latimes.com/environment/story/2025-04-15/l-a-3-million-soil-lead-testing-fund-la-fires)[](http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/phcommon/public/media/mediapubhpdetail.cfm?prid=5006)[](https://lapublicpress.org/2023/03/community-researchers-uncover-failures-of-california-department-of-toxic-substance-control-lead-levels-remain-high-in-sela/)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my garden soil unsafe for planting?

Urban soils in Los Angeles may contain lead from old paint or industrial activity. Testing can detect levels above 80 ppm, recommending raised beds or remediation.

How can I test my soil for lead contamination?

Use professional labs like Wallace Laboratories or USC’s CLEAN program for accurate lead testing, as home kits may not detect heavy metals reliably.

Why are my plants growing poorly in urban soil?

Lead contamination can stunt plant growth. Soil testing can confirm lead levels and suggest amendments or clean soil for gardening.

How do wildfires increase lead in my soil?

Wildfires, like the 2025 Eaton Fire, can deposit lead from burned structures. Testing identifies elevated levels, guiding cleanup efforts.

What should I do if my soil has high lead levels?

For lead above 80 ppm, use raised beds, cover soil with mulch, or consult professionals for remediation to minimize health risks.

Conclusion

Lead soil testing in Los Angeles is a vital step for safe gardening, community health, and environmental resilience. With urban soils at risk from historical and wildfire-related contamination, residents can access free and paid testing through programs like USC CLEAN, East Yard, and labs like Wallace Laboratories. By understanding lead levels and adopting raised beds, mulching, or remediation, Angelenos can cultivate thriving gardens and protect public health. Recent 2024-2025 research underscores the urgency of testing, ensuring Los Angeles remains a vibrant, safe place to live and grow.

References

Environmental Science & Technology. (2024). Urban Soil Contamination in Los Angeles.

UC ANR. (2024). Trace Elements in Urban Gardens.

USDA NRCS. (2024). Soil Survey of Los Angeles County.

Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. (2024). Eaton and Palisades Fire Soil Testing.

Los Angeles Times. (2025). Lead Contamination Post-Wildfires.

East Yard Communities for Environmental Justice. (2024). Get the Lead Out Program.

See all articles

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Understanding Soil Health

Assessing soil health involves looking at physical, chemical, and biological components.

Soil health is a fundamental concept that underpins the success of agriculture, gardening, and land management practices. It refers to the overall well-being and vitality of the soil ecosystem, encompassing physical, chemical, and biological aspects. Understanding soil health is crucial for maintaining sustainable and productive landscapes while also contributing to environmental conservation.

  1. Physical
    The physical properties of soil play a critical role in its health. These properties include soil texture, structure, compaction, and water-holding capacity. Soil texture refers to the proportions of sand, silt, and clay particles in the soil. A balanced texture allows for adequate water drainage and retention, preventing waterlogging and drought stress. Soil structure influences root penetration, aeration, and nutrient movement. Healthy soil structure promotes a friable and well-drained medium for plant growth.
  2. Chemical
    Soil chemistry directly affects nutrient availability and plant growth. Key chemical factors include soil pH, nutrient content, and the presence of contaminants. Soil pH measures the soil's acidity or alkalinity and profoundly influences nutrient uptake by plants. Nutrient content, including macronutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, must be in balance to support healthy plant growth. Monitoring and maintaining proper nutrient levels through fertilization are essential for maximizing crop yields and preventing nutrient deficiencies.
  3. Biological
    The biological component of soil health pertains to the diverse array of microorganisms, insects, and other organisms that inhabit the soil ecosystem. These organisms play crucial roles in nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, and disease suppression. Soil microorganisms break down organic matter, releasing nutrients that are subsequently made available to plants. A rich and diverse soil microbiome contributes to enhanced nutrient availability and plant resilience against diseases.

Our Soil Tests

We provide a range of soil tests from basic chemistry, to texture/infiltration rate, all the way to biology.

Order a Soil Test Kit

Basic Soil Health Test

The Basic Soil Health Test is an excellent starting point for understanding your soil's condition. It offers a comprehensive analysis encompassing pH levels, nutrient content, CEC (Cation Exchange Capacity), salts, and organic matter. This budget-friendly test is ideal for identifying potential soil health issues and establishing a solid foundation for further management.

Full Chemistry Test

Our Full Chemistry Test provides a detailed assessment of your soil's quality, guiding you towards healthy and sustainable soil management practices. Through an extensive analysis, we examine macro and micronutrient levels, pH, CEC, organic matter, and salinity. This comprehensive understanding empowers us to create tailored recommendations for soil amendments and treatments, optimized for the specific plants you intend to cultivate. By optimizing your soil's chemistry, you can expect to foster more robust and vibrant plant growth.

Complete Soil Health Test

Uncover a deeper understanding of your soil's health with the Complete Soil Health Test. This comprehensive analysis goes beyond the basics, measuring nutritional factors and examining soil texture. It covers macro and micronutrients, organic matter, pH, CEC, as well as sand, silt, and clay percentages. Additionally, we assess carbon sequestration levels, providing you with a holistic view of your soil's composition. The personalized recommendations derived from this test empower you to make precise adjustments to enhance your soil's health and productivity.

MWELO Soil Management Report

For those navigating California's MWELO guidelines, our MWELO Soil Management Report is an indispensable resource. This report not only ensures compliance but also promotes sustainable and thriving landscapes. It includes comprehensive data such as soil texture, infiltration rate, pH, total soluble salts, sodium content, and organic matter percentage. With amendment recommendations, optionally tailored to specific plant types, and annual maintenance tips, you'll be equipped to create landscapes that are both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally responsible.

Heavy Metals

The Heavy Metals analysis is a vital tool in assessing potential soil contamination. Given the uncertain history of properties, this analysis identifies the presence of heavy metals that might have accumulated due to past activities or nearby industrial sources. With results available in approximately nine business days, you'll gain insights to ensure the safety and health of your soil.

Soil Food Web

Explore the intricate world beneath the surface with our Soil Food Web analysis. By estimating population sizes of essential trophic groups—bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and nematodes—we unveil the microbiological health of your soil. Additionally, we identify specific organisms within these groups, providing insights into the soil's successional level and overall condition. This analysis is applicable to soil, compost, and compost tea samples, offering a holistic perspective on your soil's biological vitality.

Pesticide Screening

The Pesticide Screening can detect hundreds on common pesticides that may have been applied or drifted from nearby sources.

Herbicide Screening

The Herbicide Screening plays an important role in ensuring the safety of your soil and plants. By detecting the presence of herbicide residues, this test can indicated whether a soil has had history of herbicide applications.

See our other tests.

Regenerative Soil Management Practices

Working with nature to improve soil means implementing practices like cover cropping, mulching, and composting.

Cover Cropping

Cover cropping involves planting specific crops during non-growing seasons to cover and protect the soil. These crops enhance soil structure, prevent erosion, suppress weeds, and provide organic matter when incorporated into the soil. Leguminous cover crops also contribute nitrogen fixation, enriching soil fertility naturally. Cover cropping is a sustainable method that improves soil health and biodiversity.

Mulching

Mulching entails covering the soil surface with organic materials like straw, leaves, or wood chips. Mulch conserves soil moisture, moderates temperature fluctuations, suppresses weeds, and prevents soil erosion. As the mulch breaks down, it contributes organic matter, enriching the soil's structure and fertility. Mulching is an effective and easy way to maintain soil health.

Composting

Composting transforms organic waste into nutrient-rich compost. Incorporating compost into the soil enhances its structure, moisture retention, and fertility. Compost also introduces beneficial microorganisms that aid in nutrient cycling and disease suppression. Composting not only reduces waste but also revitalizes soil, making it an essential component of sustainable gardening.

Water Conservation Techniques

Implementing water-efficient practices such as drip irrigation, rainwater harvesting, and utilizing drought-resistant plants minimizes water use and reduces soil erosion. Conserving water in landscapes maintains soil moisture, supports plant growth, and sustains overall soil health. Water conservation techniques are vital for responsible gardening in arid and water-scarce regions.

If you have any questions feel free to get in touch with the Alluvial Soil Lab team at (831) 216-1367 or at info@alluvialsoillab.com

This page was written with the help of AI.

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