Healthy Soils, Healthy Communities – soilSHOP

Lead can be present in soil from many historical sources, such as old paint, past industrial activity, previous use of leaded gasoline, or it can be naturally occurring. Many Minnesota residents may not know that lead in soil can pose a health risk, especially for children who play outdoors or families who grow food in their yards. 

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is working to increase awareness of these risks and help communities take steps to reduce exposure.

soilSHOPs build local capacity

soilSHOP events are designed to raise awareness about lead in soil, provide clear health education, and connect people with resources to help reduce exposure. Community members can bring soil from their yards, gardens, or play areas to be screened for lead on-site. soilSHOP stands for “Soil Screening, Health, Outreach, and Partnership.” These events were developed by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR).

MDH staff support local public health partners by using an X-ray fluorescence (XRF) device to screen soil samples for lead. Health educators then walk participants through the results using plain language so they understand what the findings mean and what steps they can take minimize exposure. They also provide educational materials and resources to families, gardeners, renters, homeowners, and community organizations.

• Instructions for Collecting a Single Soil Sample (PDF)

2026 soilSHOP events

In 2026, MDH Environmental Health staff traveled across the state to participate in about a dozen soilSHOP events. These events significantly expanded the reach of this educational effort, which began with only two pilot events in 2024.

Throughout the summer, cities, counties, Tribal nations, clinics, and students all partnered with MDH to host or support soil screening events and presentations. These activities emphasized the importance of knowing what is in your soil and building community capacity to address lead risks.

Local partners helped screen 797 soil samples.