Spokane to Offer Free Soil Testing on October 24
Residents can bring soil samples or children's toys to check for wildfire-related contaminants at Coeur d'Alene Park.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Asthma
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Is now a good time to test your residential soil for potential contaminants?
The Washington State Department of Health is hosting a free soil testing event at Coeur d'Alene Park on October 24, 2026. This service aims to help Spokane residents identify potential contaminants like lead and arsenic following wildfires in the area.
Why it matters
Wildfire debris can deposit particulate matter and heavy metals into residential soil, posing potential long-term health risks if left unmonitored. Testing helps residents understand whether their soil or household items harbor contaminants that may require mitigation.
This public health initiative relies on standard soil collection protocols, requiring one to two cups of soil for analysis. The extent of environmental contamination following recent wildfires remains under investigation.
The players
Washington State Department of Health
The state agency responsible for protecting public health and managing environmental safety through monitoring and community outreach programs.
The details
To participate, residents should collect samples from multiple random spots, digging six inches deep for garden soil or two inches for other areas. For smaller yards, three samples are recommended, while larger areas require five to 10 samples. The state also accepts children's toys for lead testing to identify potential exposure risks in the home environment.
Timeline
The wildfire events impacting the Spokane area occurred in July 2026.
The Department of Health hosts the soil testing event on October 24, 2026, from 8 a.m. to noon.
Health Landscape
Environmental monitoring after wildfires has become a standard public health response to mitigate long-term exposure to heavy metals like lead and arsenic. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to protect residents from the lingering effects of wildfire debris in residential landscapes.
Spokane residents should consider bringing soil samples or children's toys to the event to rule out heavy metal contamination. It is worth discussing any concerns about potential environmental exposures at your property with your physician if you have underlying respiratory or health conditions.
The takeaway
Wildfire debris can linger in the environment long after the smoke clears, making soil safety an important consideration for homeowners. Residents should follow recommended collection depths to ensure accurate test results and consult with health officials regarding any identified contamination concerns.
Further reading
For more information on managing environmental irritants, visit Asthma.
Live Poll
Is now a good time to test your residential soil for potential contaminants?
