The Ocean County soil Conservation District is an excellent source of free soil health information, but there are many more throughout the state of New Jersey. Rutgers University Soil Testing Laboratory is a service unit that offers chemical and mechanical analyses of soils for the residents of New Jersey and for Rutgers University researchers.
After sending Rutgers a sample of soil from your lawn, they can provide you with exactly the amount of fertilizer you should apply as well as other healthy soil tips that can help you reduce your negative impact on the watershed.
Another resource provided for the residents of Ocean County is the Rutgers NJAES Cooperative Extension of Ocean County. The Cooperative Extension provides a wealth of information about natural resources, agriculture, fisheries, the economy and various other important information from New Jersey. The Extension is also the hub for many environmentally conscious volunteer groups including the Master Gardeners and the 4-H clubs.