All fertilizer companies that sell products in Louisiana are registered by the Administrative Section of the Department of Agricultural Chemistry. Inspectors for the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry collect Official Fertilizer Samples and submit them to the Agricultural Chemistry laboratory for analysis to ensure accurate ingredient content. These samples could be dry or liquid fertilizers. Miscellaneous Fertilizer Samples (ex: chicken litter) are also submitted by private clientele for analysis.
Fertilizer samples received are prepared if necessary by grinding and splitting into various portions for analysis in the sample prep laboratory.
Analyses performed on fertilizers (blended, solids and liquids) include:
(analyzed using AOAC methods when available)
N (%) content is analyzed using Fisons 2100 combustion unit.
P (as P2O5) is determined by Bran-Luebbe Auto-Analyzer.
K (as K2O) is determined by Bran-Luebbe Auto-Analyzer.
Elemental analysis (micronutrients) are determined by ICP when requested.
Results for Official Fertilizer Samples are reported by the Administrative Section. Those fertilizers found deficient are subject to fines according to state law.
The Administrative Section maintains records of results, tracks payments for fines, maintains a mailing list of manufacturers and answers questions regarding Official Fertilizer Samples. Annual reports of Official Fertilizer Samples as well as tonnage records are published by the Administrative Section. The Administrative Section prepares information for hearings of the Fertilizer Commission and also maintains records of their meetings.