Key Takeaways
- Waypoint Analytical launches new lab in Grand Island, Nebraska, expanding access to agronomic testing in the Midwest
- Facility provides soil, plant tissue, water, and plant pathology analysis, with a focus on localized recommendations
- New pilot test measures microbial genes involved in nutrient cycling for advanced soil biology insights
- Lab opening aims to reduce turnaround times and improve fertility planning for regional growers
- Waypoint Analytical now operates eight labs across North America
Waypoint Analytical Expands Midwest Presence with Grand Island Lab
Waypoint Analytical, North America’s largest agricultural laboratory network, has opened a new laboratory in Grand Island, Nebraska. The launch strengthens the company’s presence in a major row crop region, offering faster, more localized soil and crop tissue testing services for farmers throughout the Midwest.
The Grand Island location was introduced during an open house event on July 17 and is expected to improve turnaround times for analytical results and enable more precise agronomic recommendations. By situating advanced testing infrastructure closer to its customers, Waypoint aims to support timely and informed farm management decisions.
Waypoint Analytical Focuses on Localized Agronomic Insights
The new lab offers a full range of agronomic testing services, including:
- Soil analysis for nutrient availability, pH, and organic matter
- Plant tissue testing to assess in-season crop nutrient status
- Water testing for irrigation and application compatibility
- Plant pathology testing for disease identification
- Soil biology assessments for microbial function and nutrient cycling
These services are designed to help farmers optimize inputs, protect long-term soil health, and adapt strategies to field-specific needs. Crop consultants can use data from Waypoint Analytical to refine product prescriptions and seed choices based on test results.
“Soil or tissue sampling provides a window into crop health,” said Lizzie French, Soil Biology Manager at Waypoint. “By bringing advanced testing closer to farmers, we’re helping them understand what’s happening beneath the surface—so they can make confident, timely decisions.”
Pilot Testing Brings Precision to Soil Biology Analysis
As part of its expansion, Waypoint Analytical is piloting a new test that measures microbial gene activity linked to nutrient cycling. The analysis focuses on genes used by soil microbes to manage nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium availability. It aims to give growers a deeper understanding of biological processes in their fields and how these influence crop productivity.
The pilot is currently available to a limited number of customers and integrates with existing sampling protocols.
Waypoint Analytical’s National Network with Local Support
With the addition of the Nebraska facility, Waypoint Analytical now operates eight agricultural labs across the U.S., including sites in Tennessee, Iowa, Illinois, North Carolina, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and California. This geographic spread enables the company to offer regionally tailored agronomic solutions while maintaining consistency in scientific standards.
