NEIC
NEIC PESTICIDE SAMPLING GUIDE
August 1985
National Enforcement Investigations Center, Denver
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Office of Enforcement
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UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
OFFICE OF ENFORCEMENT AND COMPLIANCE MONITORING
NEIC PESTICIDE SAMPLING GUIDE
August 1985
Robert F. Schneider
NATIONAL ENFORCEMENT INVESTIGATIONS CENTER
Denver, Colorado
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ABSTRACT
This guidance manual describes equipment and methods for
sampling pesticides. Included are procedures for collecting
representative samples of pesticide products for formulation
evaluation as well as methods for collecting environmental sam-
ples to be analyzed for suspected pesticide residues. Also
included are brief discussions on container preparation, packag-
ing, storage, labeling, recordkeeping and safety. The Appendix
contains a summary of sampling and packing methods for specific
agricultural commodities to be analyzed for food or feed pesti-
cide tolerances.
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ACKNOWLEDGMENT
This manual represents the third edition of a pesticide
sampling guide published by the National Enforcement Investiga-
tions Center (NEIC). Sincere appreciation is expressed to Dean
F. Hill, Chief, Pesticides and Toxic Substances Branch at NEIC
for his review, suggestions and criticisms in the preparation of
this document. Gratitude is expres-sed to Marcia Colvin and Ilia
Schipporeit of the Information Services Branch at NEIC for their
assistance with photographic work and the final preparation of
the manual.
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DISCLAIMER
Mention of trade names or commercial products and sources
does not constitute endorsement or recommendation for use by the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
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CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ............................. l
CONTAINER PREPARATION ....................... \
PACKAGING AND STORAGE ....................... *
LABELING .............................. ;
RECOROKEEPING ........................... J
SAFETY ............................... 3
FORMULATION AND USE DILUTION ..................... 7
PESTICIDE LABEL ......................... J
FORMULATION (BULK SAMPLES. DRY MATERIAL) .............. /
FORMULATION (BULK SAMPLES. LIQUID MATERIAL) ............ 9
FORMULATION (RETAIL-SIZED UNITS. DRY OR LIQUID) .......... 11
USE DILUTION .......................... 11
RESIDUE ............................... 14
SURFACES .............................. }*
WATER (STREAMS AND OTHER SURFACE WATER) .............. 17
WATER (SURFACE SLICKS) ...................... «
WATER (TAP OR WELL) ...................... "
SOIL ............................ "
SEDIMENT ............................. **
PLANTS ............................... tn
ANIMALS ............................ *
AIR (PESTicioE DROPLET DRIFT) ................... 34
AIR (PESTICIDE VAPOR DRIFT) .................. 3/
APPENDIX
SAMPLING AGRICULTURAL COMMODITIES TO DETERMINE PESTICIDE TOLERANCE
COMPLIANCE
FIGURES
1 Grain Sampler and Disposable Plastic Tube 8
2 Vacuum Pump Syphon Device • • "?
3 Swab of Template Area "
4 Hand-dipped Sampling Jar |'
5 Weighted Water Bottle Sampler . - |»
6 Sampling With a Saturation Pad "
7 C-18 Extraction Column "
8 Vacuum Pump Syphon Device "
9 Soil Sampling With a Spatula £7
10 Phelger Corer ?g
11 Eknan Grab . . . 2«
12 Vegetation Sampling Gear "
13 Animal Sampling Gear "
14 Sling Psychrometer • "
15 Wind Meter . "
16 Droplet Indicator Paper ... • • ^
17 Puf Column . ,£
18 Constant-flow Vacuum Pump With Puf Column . •»»
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INTRODUCTION
This is the third edition of the National Enforcement Investigations
Center (NEIC) Pesticide Sampling Guide. Procedures in this edition are
presented in the format established in earlier editions published by NEIC
in 1975 and 1981. Sampling techniques are arranged in sections titled:
Formulation and Use Dilution and Residue. The Residue section is subdivided
into topics on surfaces, water, soil, sediment, plants, animals and air.
Each section describes appropriate sampling methods, lists needed apparatus
and then presents a step-by-step procedure for sampling. Procedures
described are based on current sampling practices by Federal and State
inspectors involved in agricultural or structural pesticide investigations.
The methods represent state-of-the-art techniques; however, sampling
technology and pesticide use patterns are revised constantly so the user of
this guide is encouraged to suggest and forward changes or additions to:
Robert F. Schneider, Senior Scientist
EPA - National Enforcement Investigations Center
Denver Federal Center, Box 25227
Denver, Colorado 80225
(303) 236-5120
FTS 776-5120
Before sampling, there are certain responsibilities the pesticide
inspector must consider. Foremost, is determining if sampling is necessary
to document a suspected situation such as a violation of Federal or State
laws, environmental harm or health risks. Laboratory analyses are time
consuming and costly. If analyses are not needed to document an issue,
samples should not be collected. In regulatory work, negative results may
undermine an otherwise solid case, especially in the event of a long time
lapse between an incident and sampling. If sampling is necessary, the
inspector must decide whether to collect samples from the pesticide product,
the environment or both.
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Typically, samples fall into two categories: those related to product
quality and those associated with use investigations. Product quality sam-
ples include those from businesses that manufacture, formulate or process
pesticides (producers) and those from businesses that wholesale or retail
pesticides (dealers). In product-quality studies, formulation or high-
residue samples of the pesticide product are the type collected typically.
Use-investigation samples include those from environmental monitoring,
experimental use permits, use or misuse investigations and accident or inci-
dent reports. In use studies, trace or low-residue environmental samples
(soil, vegetation, water, etc.) are the type collected but occasionally
formulation samples are needed also for complete documentation.
Authority, employee conduct, custody and related administrative or
legal issues are also the responsibilities of inspectors; however, these
are beyond the scope of this document. Once the decision has been made to
collect a pesticide or its suspected residue, the inspector must determine
how to collect a representative sample, how many samples to collect, how to
prepare the sample properly and how to package and preserve it for shipment
to the laboratory. Although these issues are discussed in each of the pro-
cedures presented in this manual, general considerations of container prep-
aration, packaging and storage, labeling and recordkeeping are repeated
here for emphasis.
CONTAINER PREPARATION
Residue or formulation subsamples should not be in contact with rubber
or non-teflon plastic. Organic material can leach from rubber or plastic
into samples causing contamination, or pesticides can absorb into or adsorb
onto rubber and plastics. In both cases, analytical results may be invali-
dated. To avoid preparation problems, samples must be collected with clean
tools (preferably of glass or stainless steel) and placed into clean glass
jars or acetone-washed aluminum foil. Never place samples directly into
plastic bags or plastic bottles. Bottle caps or jar lids must be lined
with foil or teflon.
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For proper pre-cleaning of sample containers, consult the chemist.
Generally, the cleaning method consists of flushing inner surfaces of con-
tainers (bottles or foil) including lined lids with appropriate solvents.
An ounce of solvent (acetone or equivalent) per pint-sized container is
usually sufficient. Allow the container and lid to dry thoroughly before
use. Solvent rinse should be properly discarded with other wastes; do not
reuse it.
PACKAGING AND STORAGE
Separate containers should be used for each sample or subsample unless
composite-type sampling is preplanned by the inspector and chemist. After
samples are placed into clean bottles, jars or foil, they can be tagged and
sealed in plastic bags to comply with identification and custody procedures.
Many samples require chilling or freezing to prevent degradation en
route to the analytical laboratory. Inspectors should discuss with chemists
the specific preservation requirements for samples. Generally, an ice or
picnic-type chest with crushed ice is satisfactory to maintain samples below
40° F. A similiar-type chest with heavy paper-wrapped dry ice is suitable
to hold temperatures below 10° F., if necessary. For safety, never place
dry ice in glass or air-tight containers.
Sample shipping time should be minimized. Quick delivery to the labor-
atory is necessary to meet prearranged analytical schedules and holding
time (storage) requirements.
LABELING
Identification tags, labels or seals attached to samples vary in format
but all must have at least the following information: sample number, date,
contents and collector's name or initials. This minimal information should
be supplemented by detailed logbook information about the sample.
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RECORDKEEPING
Bound logbooks are used to record detailed information about samples.
The format of recordkeeping varies for formulation, use-dilution and residue
samples but, at minimum, the following is required:
Sample Site Identification
general location
specific location
Date and Time Period of Sampling
Sample Description
container contents (specific material collected)
name of pesticide or residue suspected for which analysis is
needed
reason for collection
quantity (volume, number, weight)
identity of related samples (formulation and related residue
samples)
Sampling Method
composite or grab
instruments, devices and tools used
area, depth and related facts
purge time and volume (well water)
precleaning tools and cleaning between uses
Storage and Shipping
container type and precleaning
packaging routine
preservation
transport method (date and time)
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Other Documentation
maps
field record sheets
custody and document control records
books and records
photographs
statements or affidavits
technical and professional remarks
SAFETY
Safety is an aspect of pesticide sampling too often ignored. It is
the responsibility of inspectors to protect themselves and others during
pesticide handling and sampling activities associated with an investigation.
Each sampling procedure described in this manual poses a degree of health
and safety risk. To minimize this risk, protective clothing and safety
equipment must be used by inspectors. The protective gear must be adequate
to prevent accidental exposure to pesticides through eyes, nose, mouth and
skin. For specifics, inspectors should refer to the precautions described
on the labels of pesticides being handled and sampled in addition to being
fully acquainted with safety protocols issued by their Agency. For a
detailed discussion on safety, inspectors are encouraged to refer to the
EPA Pesticide Inspectors Manual.*
Procedures described in the following pages can be impacted by analyti-
cal requirements, quality control considerations and other technical factors;
therefore, the inspector and chemist should discuss proposed sampling before
field work begins. A good synopsis of the value of proper sampling is pre-
sented in the 1979 EPA Sample Collection Manual published by the Benefits
and Field Studies Division, Office of Pesticide Programs, Washington, DC.
Dellavecchia, Anthony J., et al., 1975, "Pesticide Inspection Manual",
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Section 21, SAFETY, 8pp.
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"No chemical analysis can be better than the sample on which
it is based. The task of procuring a representative sample pre-
sents a challenge, first to the sampler in the field, then to
every person involved with that sample until the final analytical
results are known."
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FORMULATION AND USE DILUTION
This section describes the apparatus and procedures for subsampling
bulk containers of formulation pesticides from the producer, marketplace or
user, as well as diluted pesticides from the user. Some of the procedures
described are from the EPA Pesticide Inspectors Manual* while others are
based on current practices of State and Federal pesticide inspectors.
Every ounce of formulated or diluted pesticide cannot be collected and
analyzed; therefore, sampling must be designed so all portions of the pesti-
cide have an equal chance of being examined. Procedures discussed in this
section take into account this scientific approach of random sampling which
maximizes the possibility of obtaining representative samples. Equipment
and miscellaneous supplies needed for formulation and use-dilution sampling
range in cost from $10 to $125.
PESTICIDE LABEL
A duplicate label must accompany each formulation or use dilution sample.
To avoid misbranding, never remove labels from bulk containers. Bin or
file copy label is satisfactory if a word for word comparison is made to
ensure it is identical with the label on the container sampled. If labels
are unavailable, a legible photograph of the container label should be sub-
mitted with the sample.
FORMULATION (BULK SAMPLES. DRY MATERIAL)
Subsampling of bulk containers is usually recommended because: (1)
the cost of larger amounts is frequently prohibitive, (2) larger size units
are difficult to handle and costly to ship and (3) the increased amount of
material left over after testing may create disposal problems. Therefore,
dry products in containers in excess of 40 pounds are usually subsampled at
the inspection site. Use discretion if you feel there is reason to deviate
from these guidelines.
De2Iavacchia, Anthony J., et al., 1975, "Pesticide Inspection Manual",
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: 22 Sections and Appendix.
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FIGURE 1. GRAIN SAMPLER AND DISPOSABLE PLASTIC TUBE
Apparatus
1. Acetone-washed grain sampler or previously unused, disposable-type
plastic tube (Fisher Grain Sampler, Stock No. 14-208, Fisher Sci-
entific, 711 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburg, Pennsylvania 15219)
2. Widemouth glass pint or quart jars with teflon-lined lids
3. Data sheets and identification tags
4. Labeled shipping container
Procedure
1. Lay the bag of pesticide on its side.
2. Insert closed metal grain sampler or plastic tube diagonally into
the bag through the seam at the top corner.
3. Push the closed sampler or tube to the opposite bottom corner of
the bag. By opening and closing the sampler or filling the tube,
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collect a representative sample of the material from different
sections of the bag.
4. Carefully withdraw the sampler or tube containing sampled material.
5. Transfer dry material into glass jar; label and prepare for ship-
ment to the laboratory. Collect about a pound (a pint) for low
concentration fertilizer-pesticide combination products. Collect
at least 4 ounces for wettable powders or other concentrates.
6. Samples from the same batch or lot code may be composited. Samples
from different codes must be packaged separately.
Comments
Avoid cross-contaminating samples by cleaning or replacing sampling
tools between each sampling use. If a plastic tube is used to collect the
sample, it should be destroyed by cutting and disposed of in a satisfactory
manner. Because the grain sampler is a reusable tool, it should be acetone-
washed and rinsed with water before continuing its use for additional samples.
If the dealer, producer or agent requests a duplicate sample, it is
collected, identified and sealed in the same manner as described above.
For detailed information on resealing (restoring) the bulk container,
obtaining bin label copies, and preparing appropriate paperwork, see EPA
Pesticide Inspection Manual, Section 12, pp. 6-8.
FORMULATION (BULK SAMPLES. LIQUID MATERIAL)
Subsampling is recommended for liquids in containers in excess of
1 gallon. Smaller volumes can either be taken as a unit or thoroughly
shaken and poured into an appropriate sample container. Various types of
siphon devices or chemically-cleaned glass tubes (glass thief) are typically
used to collect bulk-stored liquids.
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FIGURE 2. VACUUM PUMP SYPHON DEVICE
Apparatus
1. Acetone-washed glass tubing or a siphon device with disposable
hose (Hand-operated vacuum pump, Stock No. TR-6513-00, Cole-Parmer
Instrument Company. 7425 N. Oak Park Ave., Chicago, Illinois
60648)
2. Glass pint or quart bottle with teflon-lined lid
3. Data sheets and identification tags
4. Labeled shipping container with appropriate packing, as stipulated
by DOT regulations
Procedure
1. Thoroughly agitate liquid material by rolling and shaking can,
barrel or drum before sampling.
2. Insert siphon hose or glass tubing (thief) through open pour hole
in bulk container.
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3. Collect a composite sample from three depths; near bottom, middle
and at top of liquid level. If sediment, layering or phase sepa-
ration is observed, collect a duplicate sample.
4. Collect at least 4 ounces from concentrated products and 8 ounces
from diluted products where active ingredients are less than 10%.
5. Transfer liquid sample into glass sample container, then seal,
tag and pack for shipment.
6. Properly dispose of hose. Reclean sampling tools with acetone
and rinse with clean water before collecting additional samples.
FORMULATION (RETAIL-SIZED UNITS. DRY OR LIQUID)
Container sizes in this category are usually 1-gallon or less for
liquids and 40 pounds or less for dry-granular material. Often, the entire
container randomly selected from a lot can be purchased from the producer,
dealer or user. Details for payment and related paperwork are presented in
the EPA Pesticide Inspection Manual, Section 13, pp. 7-8. If it is necessary
to subsample a retail-sized unit, follow the procedure described previously
for either dry or liquid bulk sampling.
Collect enough retail units to equal 8 ounces for concentrated products
with more than 10% active ingredients. Collect 16 ounces for products with
single active ingredients of 10% or less. At least four pressurized con-
tainers should be obtained to provide an adequate sample size for chemical
analyses of the product.
USE DILUTION
Most of this type material is in liquid form (water or occasionally
oil). Analytical results of use-dilution samples will identify the product,
cross-contamination of products and relative strength of diluted material.
Sampling and analysis of material from a service container or application
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tank will seldom document that materials were mixed and diluted properly.
Documentation of proper mixing should be obtained through interview and
observation techniques; sampling is seldom required if this is the sole
purpose.
Apparatus
1. Siphon device with disposable tubing (Stock No. TR-6513-00,
Cole-Parmer Instrument Company, 7425 N. Oak Park Ave., Chicago,
Illinois 60648)
2. Glass pint or quart bottle with teflon-lined lid
3. Data sheets and identification tags
4. Labeled shipping container with appropriate packing to meet DOT
regulations.
Procedure
1. Thoroughly agitate liquid in service container or tank (as appro-
priate, operate mechanical agitator to assure adequate mixing).
2. For aerial application sampling, collect use-dilution samples
from spray boom nozzles. Following actual application, loosen
boom nozzle and drain the pesticide mix into a glass sample con-
tainer. (Previous aircraft movement usually assures complete
pesticide mixing.)
3. For service containers or tanks, insert siphon tubing through
fill opening or collect a well-mixed sample from the drain system.
In some cases, a sample from a service container can be collected
by directing nozzle spray into a collection bottle.
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4. To assure randomness, collect a composite sample from three depths;
near bottom, middle and at top of the liquid level or from dif-
ferent drain points on the rig. Collect at least a pint of pesti-
cide mix.
5. Transfer liquid sample into glass sample container, then seal,
tag and pack for shipment.
6. Properly dispose of used tubing and reclean other sampling tools
with acetone and rinse with clean water before collecting addi-
tional samples.
Comment
If proper agitation of the use-dilution sample is in question, collect
the sample by the siphon technique. A drain sample of poorly agitated
liquid in a tank usually is not representative of the tank contents. If
severe undermixing (settling or separation) is suspected, collect a sample
of dilutent and a sample of the parent formulation. With these additional
samples, the chemist can perform a stability test on the mixture and provide
quantitative results on the formulation product. If the sample container
has a rubber or paper gasket, a piece of acetone-washed aluminum foil should
be placed between the cap and bottle to avoid contact of the liquid sample
with the rubber or paper. Consult the chemist for advice on preserving the
sample during transport to the laboratory.
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RESIDUE
This and following sections describe the apparatus and procedures for
pesticide residue sampling. Because the enforcement goal of residue sam-
pling is to document human health and environmental problems or risks, the
procedures presented emphasize collecting the fewest samples from highly
suspect areas of potential pesticide contamination.
SURFACES
To determine the extent of application coverage or contamination of
surfaces, a technique known as wipe or swab sampling is often used.
Measured non-porous areas, such as finished wood, tiles, linoleum,
metal and glass, are swabbed with an absorbant paper wetted with an appro-
priate solvent to remove the compounds of interest from the surface. The
absorbant paper is packaged and transferred to the laboratory, extracted
with solvent and analyzed by gas and/or liquid chromatography. Concentra-
tions are normally reported either as weight (usually micrograms) per unit
area or weight per swab.
Porous areas, such as carpet or drapes, can be sampled with the same
technique to provide qualitative identification of pesticide application or
contamination.
Inspectors should wear impervious disposable gloves, either nitrile,
vinyl or latex. Iso-octane and isopropanol are relatively non-toxic; how-
ever, care should be taken to minimize respiratory and skin exposure. Both
solvents are flammable; thus, care should be taken when using these solvents
around pilot lights, lit burners, contact switches, cigarettes and other
sources of ignition. Absorbant pads (swabs) should not be handled with
bare hands, but with clean gloves or decontaminated forceps. Chlordane and
heptachlor are suspected carcinogens and should be handled accordingly.
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The technique described here and additional information on storage,
extraction and related analytical methods can be found in the NEIC publica-
tion Sampling and Analysis of Surfaces for Pesticides and PCBs.*
FIGURE 3. SWAB OF TEMPLATE AREA
Apparatus
1. Absorbant pad, 10 cm x 10 cm [Stock No. 7588 - Alltech Associates,
Waukegan Dr., Deerfield, Illinois 60015 (available in boxes of
100)].
2. Isopropanol (pesticide or reagent grade). Consult chemist for
other suitable solvents.
3. Screwcap 40 ml Volatile Organic Analysis (VGA)** vials with
teflon®-lined septum
4. Disposable gloves of latex (Markson 17118), nitrile (Fisher 11
394 23A) or vinyl (Bard-Parker H8294-002510)
* Hill, Dean, 1984, "Sampling and Analysis of Surfaces for Pesticides
and PCBs", National Enforcement Investigations Center, U.S. Environ-
mental Protection Agency, Denver, Colorado, 7 pp.
** Vials 28mm 6y 98mm, No. 22483; caps, open-top screw type, size 24-400,
No. 240518; cap liners, Telfon®-faced silicone, 24 mm No. 240588;
wheaton Scientific, Nillville, NJ 08332
® Telfon is a registered trademark; hereinafter shown with ®.
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5. Eye-dropper bottle filled with appropriate solvent (isopropanol,
iso-octane, etc.)
6. Disposable template with 10 x 10 cm square (4" x 4") opening cut
from cardboard
7. Plastic bag for used gloves and other onsite disposables
8. Data sheets, tags and shipping containers
Procedure
1. Fold a 10-cm-square absorbant pad into a 2.5 cm-square.
2. Grasp the two inner pockets formed in folding with freshly gloved
fingers.
3. Wet both external surfaces of pad with isopropanol or other appro-
priate solvent (do not use solvent when surface to be sampled is
visibly wet; simply blot liquid within measured area).
4. Place template on surface to delineate area to be sampled.
5. Blot 10 cm square area horizontally with one side of the wet swab
and then vertically with the other. Blot uniformly at least five
times in each direction.
6. Carefully roll the sample swab into a cylinder with exposed, wet
areas inside.
7. Insert rolled swab into VOA vial and cap with teflon-lined lid.
8. Seal, tag and prepare for transport to laboratory.
9. Place used template and gloves in plastic bag and dispose of
properly.
Comments
It is possible that dirt or finishes, such as wax, paint, lacquer or
other debris, could give rise to analytical interferences. Blotting versus
wiping or rubbing is recommended to minimize inadvertent collection of
debris and to maximize uptake of the pesticide. For quality control, at
least one side-by-side duplicate should be taken for each surface type.
Also, it is desirable to obtain a background sample from an untreated or
"clean" area of the same surface composition as the area of interest.
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WATER (STREAMS AND OTHER SURFACE WATER)
A common method for collecting water from ponds, lakes and streams is
by dipping the sample bottle to obtain water at or near the surface. This
technique is effective because many pesticides, especially oil-based, remain
on the water surface. If physical conditions, such as inaccessible shore-
line, preclude the dip method or, if subsurface water samples are needed,
alternate methods are available using a sampling jar attached to a tele-
scoping pole, hand pumps, or weighted water samplers. Consequently, equip-
ment costs vary from less than $1 for a sample jar to $250 for commercial
water-sampling devices.
FIGURE 4. HAND-DIPPED SAMPLING JAR
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FIGURE 5. WEIGHTED WATER BOTTLE SAMPLER
Apparatus
1. Widemouth glass jar with teflon-lined lid for use as sampling
device and/or sample container
2. Hand pump or weighted water sampler (Van Dorn, Kemmerer, APHA
sampler) for subsurface sampling or situations where bottle cannot
be dipped
3. Ice for chilling samples
4. Data sheets, identification tags and shipping container
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Procedure
1. Dip, pump or otherwise collect a minimum of a quart (950 m£) of
water into a clean glass jar (never use plastic bottles). Collect
a duplicate sample for quality control analysis.
2. Avoid collection of bottom sediment; guard against roiling sediment
when collecting a subsurface water sample.
3. Each sample container should represent a single sample location.
Submit an unused sample jar and lid to the chemist as a blank for
quality control analysis.
4. Seal, tag and pack glass jars to comply with shipping needs.
Typically, water samples should be kept on ice and protected from
direct sunlight. Consult chemist for special preservation and
holding time precautions.
WATER (SURFACE SLICKS)
If shallowness precludes dipping a bottle to collect a slick on the
surface of the water, the preferred method is the saturation pad technique.
FIGURE 6. SAMPLING WITH A SATURATION PAD
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Apparatus
1. Saturation (absorbant) pad, 10 cm square [Stock No. 7588 - Alltech
Associates, Waukegan Dr., Deerfield, Illinois 60015 (available
in boxes of 100)]. Extract with methanol at least 10 cycles on
Soxhlet apparatus when using for organophosphate sampling.
2. Precleaned forceps or disposable gloves of latex, nitrile or vinyl
3. Screwcap 40 mSL VOA vials* with teflon-lined septum
4. Data sheets, tags and shipping container
Procedure
1. Grasp the saturation pad firmly with freshly gloved fingers or
clean forceps and gently swab over the slick on the water surface.
Collect a duplicate sample from the same site and submit it to
the chemist for quality control analysis.
2. Roll the pad into a cylinder with swab surface inside.
3. Insert rolled pad into a VOA vial and cap. Insert a second unused
pad in another clean VOA vial and submit to the chemist as a blank
for quality control analysis.
4. Seal, tag and pack vial containing swab pad for shipment.
5. Reclean forceps with acetone and rinse with clean water. Replace
disposable gloves before collecting additional surface-slick
samples.
Ibid
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Comment
Analytical results are reported on a weight per pad basis. It may be
appropriate to composite several swab pads for a single sample. Do not
re-dip a saturation pad or use both sides to collect a surface slick. Such
procedure often results in flushing collected material from the pad.
WATER (TAP OR WELL)
Tap or well-water samples are often collected directly into a sample
bottle If numerous samples of water are needed, volume, weight and glass-
ware may become of concern to the collector. An alternate method is
described below for conserving space and weight when large volumes of
water (low amounts of particulates) are required for an investigation.
FIGURE 7. C-18 EXTRACTION COLUMN FIGURE 8. VACUUM PUMP SYPHON DEVICE
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Apparatus
1. Disposable C-18 extraction column (Bond Elut columns, Analytichem
International, 24210 Frampton Ave., Harbor City, California 90710)
2. Flexible tubing
3. Hand-operated vacuum pump (Stock No. TR-6513-00, Cole-Parmer
Instrument Company, 7425 N. Oak Park Ave., Chicago, Illinois
60648)
4. 500 mS. beaker or jar
5. 500 m£ vacuum flask with stopper
6. Acetone-washed aluminum foil
7. Plastic bag
8. Data sheets, tags and shipping container
Procedure
1. Insert luer fitting of the C-18 extraction column into the flex-
ible tubing and connect the other end to the vacuum flask and
pump assembly.
2. Submerge the tip of extraction column in a clean beaker or jar
filled with tap or well water to be sampled.
3. Filter 500 mi of the water sample through the C-18 extraction
column; discard the filtrate. Collect a duplicate sample from at
least one site and submit it to the chemist for quality control
analysis.
Registered trademark; appears hereafter without ®.
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4. Wrap the used extraction column in aluminum foil, place in a
properly labeled plastic bag and pack for shipment to laboratory.
Also submit an unused column to the chemist as a blank sample for
quality control analysis.
5. Acetone-rinse the beaker or jar before collecting additional tap
or well water samples.
Comment
For technical assistance or ordering Bond Elut columns, phone (800)
421-2825. Cost is about 70
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FIGURE 9. SOIL SAMPLING WITH A SPATULA
Apparatus
1. Stainless steel spatula, spoon or scoop
2. Acetone (pesticide grade)
3. Acetone-washed aluminum foil or glass jar with teflon-lined lid
4. Shallow, steel pan or pail
5. Plastic bag
6. Data sheets, tags and shipping container with crushed ice
Procedure
1. Scrape and scoop with the spatula approximately a pint of top
soil (to a depth of less than 1 inch) from the sample site. Mini
mize collection of rocks, sticks, leaves and debris.
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2. Directly place soil into labeled glass jar or onto aluminum foil
lining a shallow pan (pan supports foil to prevent tearing during
soil collection).
3. Seal jar or wrap each sample in foil and place it in a plastic
bag.
4. Label samples with appropriate identification and place them in
the shipping container.
5. Reclean sampling tools with acetone and rinse with clean water
before collecting additional soil samples.
Comment
Inspector judgment is essential to minimize the number of soil samples
collected and to ensure that samples are taken only in situations where
environmental or human health risk is probable. In agricultural situations,
soil samples from fence lines and turnrows often produce highest pesticide
concentrations but may be of no importance in an investigation. Similarly,
in structural pesticide work, properly treated soil around foundations may
not be of use for identifying contamination inside the building.
Soil acidity or alkalinity will deteriorate aluminum foil over long
storage periods; therefore, when sample storage exceeds 96 hours, soil
should be placed in glass containers fitted with teflon-lined lids and kept
refrigerated.
SEDIMENT
Pesticide residues often accumulate in the bottom sediment of lakes
and streams. Under certain physical and chemical conditions, these residues
can be rapidly re-released into the water causing fish kills or other con-
tamination problems. To document the pesticide source, it may be necessary
to conduct sediment sampling
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26
Commercially available devices for sediment sampling include Emery
bacteriological sampler ($300), Phleger corer ($350), mud snapper ($150),
Petersen Grab ($300) and Ekman Grab ($175). These devices often require
extensive cleaning between sampling to alleviate cross-contamination, so a
simple and inexpensive ($3) technique is recommended in this section: a
disposable core tube.
FIGURE 10. PHLEGER CORER
FIGURE 11. EKMAN GRAB
Apparatus
1. Disposable type core tube or commercial device
2. Wash pan (prec'eaned with acetone)
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27
3. Widemouth glass jar with teflon-lined lid
4. Data sheets, tags and shipping container with crushed ice
Procedure
1. Carefully lower disposable core tube or other sampling device
through water into sediment (minimize roiling the sediment).
2. Retrieve approximately 1 pint of sediment.
3. Directly transfer sediment into a clean glass sample jar or a
clean pan.
4. Remove rocks, leaves and other debris from sediment before trans-
ferring to the widemouth glass jar. Collect a duplicate sediment
sample from at least one site and submit it to the chemist for
quality control analysis.
5. Label samples and store them in the shipping container with
crushed ice for transport to laboratory.
6. Properly dispose of core tube. Rinse pan with acetone and flush
it with clean water before collecting additional sediment samples.
Comment
Directly scooping sediment into a glass jar avoids the cost and use of
sampling devices so this procedure is recommended for shallow sampling situ-
ations. Where water depths exceed a few inches, sediment contents can be
flushed or diluted as the jar is lowered or retrieved through the water.
Thus, the core tube technique described is satisfactory for unconsolidated
sediment and use of a commercial sediment-collecting device is recommended
for firm bottom deposits.
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28
PLANTS
Pesticide drift, overspray or other misapplication incidents are often
documented by collecting and analyzing plants for residues. The sampling
technique described below is applicable for most agricultural crops as well
as non-crop vegetation where drift or overspray is to be documented. For
documenting acceptable pesticide tolerance levels in feed and foodstuffs,
refer to the sampling method described in the Appendix of this manual.
Cost of supplies for plant sampling usually is less than $25.
FIGURE 12. VEGETATION SAMPLING GEAR
Apparatus
1. Shovel and clippers
2. Acetone-washed aluminum foil
3. Disposable gloves of latex, vinyl or nitrile
4. Plastic or paper bags, glass jars or new quart-size ice cream
cartons
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29
5. Data sheets, tags and shipping container with freezer paks, dry
ice or crushed ice
Procedure
1. Collect approximately 1 pound (1 quart) of affected vegetation.
For small plants where systemic pesticide absorption is suspected,
uproot entire plant; otherwise remove plant parts such as leaves.
If possible, collect an unaffected plant and submit it to the
chemist for use as a quality control specimen.
2. Cover work surfaces with clean aluminum foil and, wearing dispos-
able gloves, prepare samples by removing soil and cutting into
suitable length size for wrapping.
3. Wrap sample in foil; usually one type of vegetation or crop per
sample.
4. Place foil-wrapped sample in bag or box and label.
5. Place samples in shipping container and chill or freeze.
6. Properly dispose of gloves and then acetone-rinse shovel or clip-
pers and flush them with clean water before continuing to sample
other vegetation.
Comment
Plants are often very perishable and must be chilled or preferably
frozen as soon as possible for transport to the laboratory. It may be
necessary to air-dry damp vegetation before wrapping or to freeze wet sam-
ples to prevent rotting during shipment. If dry ice is shipped with samples,
it should be wrapped securely in heavy paper (for safety, never pack dry
ice in glass, metal or air-tight containers).
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30
The Appendix to this manual contains procedures for collecting
representative plant parts normally consumed by humans and livestock.
These sampling and packing instructions for agricultural commodities are
modified from Guidelines for Collecting Field Samples. U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, Office of Pesticide Programs, Washington, DC, March 1979.
If the purpose of plant sampling is other than for identifying residues to
determine pesticide tolerance compliance in food, the investigator should
consult the chemist for information on plant parts to be sampled, amount
*
and proper preservation.
ANIMALS
Misapplication, drift, overspray, spillage and other incidents with
pesticides often result in harm or death to animals. Pesticide residue
sampling of tissue, blood, urine or related material from livestock or wild-
life is to be done by a veterinarian or authorized agent. Such sampling is
beyond the scope of this manual so it will not be addressed; however, if
the source of animal illness or death is suspected to be pesticide-
contaminated feed, the inspector should collect a sample. Refer to the
sampling and packing instructions in the Appendix of this report.
Occasionally, the pesticide inspector finds dead fish, birds, bees or
other small animals at or near a pesticide application site. With reason-
able suspicion that pesticides are the cause of death, the inspector may
have to collect an animal sample. Sampling costs involve only miscellaneous
supplies so they are minimal (less than $5) but analysis is often expensive;
thus, inspector judgment is essential before collecting and shipping animal
specimens to the laboratory for pesticide residue analyses.
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31
A LI-MAX
-OILS INC.
FIGURE 13. ANIMAL SAMPLING GEAR
Apparatus
1. Dipnet, tongs and knife
2. Disposable gloves
3. Acetone-washed aluminum foil
4. Shallow, flat-bottomed pan
5. Plastic bag or widemouth glass jar with teflon-lined lid
6. Data sheets, tags and shipping container with crushed or dry ice
Procedure
1. Unless instructed otherwise, collect only dead animals.
2. Preferably collect entire animal but, if impractical, collect at
least a pound of tissue (approximately 1 pint).
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32
3. As appropriate, place the dead animal in an aluminum-lined pan to
cut tissue samples before wrapping. Avoid skin contact with dead
and possibly diseased animals by wearing protective clothing
including disposable gloves.
4. Place entire animal or tissue in clean glass jar or wrap sample
in foil and place in plastic bag; attach identification tag.
5. Immediately freeze samples or place them in shipping container
with crushed ice for transport to the laboratory.
6. Wash, acetone-rinse and flush with clean water all tools used in
collecting and preparing animal samples; properly dispose of
gloves and used aluminum foil.
Comment
Animal deaths may be caused by disease, so caution must be taken to
protect the inspector and others when handling dead animals or tissue during
a pesticide investigation. If a question about health or sample preparation
technique exists, consult a veterinarian or wildlife biologist before pro-
ceeding with collecting or dissecting dead animal specimens.
AIR
Sampling air for pesticide residues is a task that requires consider-
able preplanning by the inspector, chemist and other officials of the regu-
latory agency. The primary objective that must be considered is of what
value the air sampling and analyses will be in documenting a health or envi-
ronmental problem. Once the decision is made to collect airborne pesticide
residues, the next consideration is to select an appropriate sampling method.
In the following pages, two mechanical procedures for collecting air-
borne pesticide residues are described. One method is designed to collect
pesticide droplets, the other for vapor. Equipment and supply costs for
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33
the two methods range from less than $10 (droplet sampling) to nearly $1,000
(vapor sampling).
Temperature and relative humidity measurements are an essential part
of air monitoring. These parameters provide atmospheric information often
linked to vapor or droplet pesticide drift problems. In the agricultural
or outdoor setting, wind direction and speed are important and must be
recorded also. Inexpensive devices suitable for these measurements are a
pocket sling psychrometer for temperature 'and humidity ($35) and a pocket
wind meter ($10). A manufacturing source is Weather Measure, P.O. Box
41039, Sacramento, California 95841. Respectively, the psychrometer and
wind meter are model number 5220 and 2520 in the 1985 Weather Measure
Catalog.
FIGURE 14. SLING PSYCHROMETER
FIGURE 15. WIND METER
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34
AIR (PESTICIDE DROPLET DRIFT)
A simple and inexpensive method for detecting pesticide deposits
(droplets) from overspray or drift is the use of spray droplet paper. Two
types of commercially available paper are recommended; one is a rigid paper
coated with a yellow surface that stains dark blue with water droplets, the
other is also rigid but coated with a white surface that stains black with
oil droplets. Because pesticide formulations are usually diluted in water
or oil, these papers are adequate for quickly detecting spray patterns and
droplet deposits. To increase monitoring effectiveness, it is recommended
that water and oil sensitive paper be stapled side-by-side on posterboard
with a third paper, a chemically-clean, 10 mm square saturation pad. This
array will enable the inspector to visibly detect oil- or water-based pesti-
cide droplets that impinge on the papers, as well as providing a residue
sample on the saturation pad for chemical analysis.
Oil- water-sensitive papers have proven useful in identifying off-
target droplet patterns of drift or overspray from agricultural ground or
aerial pesticide spraying. Detecting misapplication at structural pesticide
treatment sites is another possible use of spray droplet papers and the
author of this manual solicits suggestions.
FIGURE 16. DROPLET INDICATOR PAPER
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35
Apparatus
1. Water-sensitive paper, 76 mm x 52 mm [Stock No. 20301-2, Spraying
Systems Co., North Avenue at Schmale Rd., Wheaton, Illinois 60187
(available in package of 50 cards)]
2. Oil-sensitive paper, 76 mm x 52 mm [Stock No. 20302-1, Spraying
Systems Co., North Avenue at Schmale Rd., Wheaton, Illinois 60187
(available in package of 50 cards)]
3. Saturation pad, 10 cm x 10 cm [Stock No. 7588, Alltech Associates,
Waukegan Dr., Deerfield, Illinois 60015 (available in boxes of
100)]. Extract with methanol at least 10 cycles on Soxhlet appa-
ratus when using for organophosphate sampling.
4. Latex, nitrile or vinyl gloves (for handling oil- and water-
sensitive cards)
5. Posterboard (at least 7-inch square)
6. Stapler (to attach paper to posterboard)
7. Nails or tape (to attach posterboard with papers to sample site
support (i.e., fence, tree, building, etc.)
8. Acetone-washed aluminum foil
9. Data sheets, tags and plastic bag's
Procedure
1. Assemble array of papers on posterboard by stapling side-by-side
an oil-sensitive paper, water-sensitive paper and a saturation
pad. Duplicate saturation pads may be needed for certain analyti-
cal purposes such as quality control or analyzing more than one
type of pesticide (consult the chemist).
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36
2. Nail or tape the poster-board array of papers (droplet indicator
card) to a natural or artificial support at the sample station
site. The card should be placed horizontally and above the
groundcover canopy of vegetation (shrubs, grass, crops, etc.).
3. Handle droplet card with clean gloves to prevent skin contact
with oil- and water-sensitive paper or saturation pad (see comment
below).
4. Lay out droplet card shortly before spraying occurs. Identify
each sampling location by cross-reference to a map or logbook
entry.
5. Following exposure to spray application, retrieve droplet card
and examine for stains; record onsite results in field logbook.
6. Wrap entire droplet card in precleaned foil and place in a plastic
bag.
7. Label bag for transport to laboratory.
8. At the laboratory, remove the saturation pad from the droplet
card and send it to the chemist for pesticide residue analysis.
If duplicate pads are needed for analytical purposes, the 10 cm
square pad can be cut in half or initially expose two pads (see
step 1).
9. Count and record the number of droplet stains on the sensitive
paper. If stains are too numerous to count, use a template with
a square centimeter opening and count stains in four random areas
on the paper; report as average number of droplets per square
centimeter
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37
Comment
limitations of water- and oil-sensitive paper include the logistics of
placing the droplet cards at sailing locations shortly before spraymg
5 Also, oil or perspiration fro™ fingers can pre-stain the paper so
at x nitrile or vinyl gloves are recommended when handling the sampling
ards' Finally, very high humidity (greater than 90*) will turn the water-
sensitive paper light blue making the darker b!ue stains produced by water
droplets difficult to detect.
Before and after use, the water- and oil-sensitive cards should be
stored under dry conditions, preferably in an air-tight container.
AIR (PESTICIDE VAPOR DRIFT)
The leading source of pesticide complaints is odor which is often asso-
c,ated with solvent or active ingredient vapors released during and fo ow-
ing spraying. Numerous pesticide samplers have been developed to collect
ticide vapors 0«ss than 0.1 urn); these include the HISCO Model 88. the
- ol high volume filter sampler and others. All have
g fragi e, bulky, heavy, expensive and electric powered. The sample
vi e described below has but one of these limitations; it ,s expensive.
Although the sample-collection materials are less than ,10, the por <, 1
vacuum pump recorded costs $750 and a suitable calibrate k,t costs an
additional $150 to $200.
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38
FIGURE 17. PUF COLUMN
FIGURE 18. CONSTANT-FLOW VACUUM
PUMP WITH PUF COLUMN
Apparatus
Battery-powered, constant-flow vacuum pump and 110 volt, 60 Hz
battery charger (Dupont P-4000, E.I. duPont de Nemours & Co.,
Wilmington, Delaware) flow rate 0.02-4.0 £/minute (±5%), weight
1.2 kg, rechargeable
DuPont calibration kit [Stock No. 66-242-f-l (soap bubble meter)
or equivalent flow-rate meter, E.I. dupont de Nemours & Co., Wil-
mington, Delaware.
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39
3. Polyurethane foam (PUF); Gaymar Identi-Plugs foam tube plugs [Stock
No. L 800-13; Gaymar Industries, Inc., One Bank St., Orchard Park,
New York 14127 (available in bags of 200)]. Two extractions with
10% ether and hexane solution; at least 32 cycles each on Soxhlet
apparatus and dry overnight under hood to remove impurities.
4. Glass tubing with 15 mm ID, 5-inch length
•
5. Rubber septum, suitable to fit tightly over ends of glass tubing
(air-tight fitting)
6. Glass tubing, 3 mm ID; 4.5 cm length (disposable plastic 1 m£
pipette cut into 4.5 cm length is a satisfactory substitute for
the glass tubing)
7. Flexible tubing or hose (3-foot length is suitable for most uses)
8. Acetone-washed aluminum foil and plastic bag for sample
9. Data sheets, tags and shipping container
Procedure
1. Assemble PUF* column centering two foam plugs in glass tubing;
cap tube ends with rubber septums. Pierce one septum with 4.5-cm-
long piece of rigid plastic (pipette) or glass tubing.
2. Attach flexible hose to septum tubing and vacuum pump.
3. Remove septum from one end of PUF column; calibrate vacuum pump
for air flow of at least 2 2/minute through the PUF column. (Cal-
ibration can be done in the laboratory or office prior to and
after field use.)
Lewis, R. G. and MacLeod, K. £., 1982, "Portable Sampler for Pesticides
and Semivolatile Industrial Organic Chemicals in Air", Anal. Chem.,
54: 310-315.
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40
4. Wrap entire PUF column in clean foil for transport to sampling
site.
5. At sampling site, remove foil and attach PUF column and hose to
vacuum pump. Operate vacuum for precise preselected time to pass
500 liters of air through the PUF column. If possible, collect a
duplicate air sample to submit to the chemist for quality control
analysis.
6. After sampling, disconnect PUF column and recap its open end with
rubber septum.
7. Rewrap used PUF column in clean foil, place it in a plastic bag
and label it for transport to the laboratory. Also wrap a clean,
unused PUF column in foil and submit it as a blank to the chemist
for quality control.
8. In the laboratory, extract pesticides with appropriate solvents
and report results as weight of pesticide/cubic meter of air.
Comment
The PUF column vacuum pump described is lightweight, portable and oper-
ates quietly. This makes it ideal for indoor sampling (structural or agri-
cultural pesticide monitoring). If used for termiticide indoor air sampling,
the apparatus should be placed at the center of the room near the normal
breathing zone (3 to 6 feet above the floor). Agricultural monitoring is
more variable and site selection must be based on inspector judgment.
Actual testing has shown that the PUF column trapping efficiency for
numerous organochlorine, organonitrogen, organophosphorus and pyrethoid
pesticides is greater than 75%. For specifics, refer to the Lewis and
MacLeod publication or contact NEIC at (303) 236-5120.
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APPENDIX
SAMPLING AGRICULTURAL COMMODITIES TO
DETERMINE PESTICIDE TOLERANCE COMPLIANCE
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APPENDIX
SAMPLING AGRICULTURAL COMMODITIES TO
DETERMINE PESTICIDE TOLERANCE COMPLIANCE
SAMPLING AND PACKING SPECIFIC CROPS
Artichokes
Collect about 1 pound of fruit (5 to 10
buds). Chill, if possible.
Packing: Aluminum foil, paper bag, shipping
case
Asparagus
Collect about 1 pound of stalks cut at ground
level (15 to 25 stalks). Chill.
Packing: Aluminum foil, paper bag, shipping
case
Beans (for shelling,
including peas, lima
beans, dried beans,
etc., not soybeans)
Beans (snap, also
edible, podded peas)
Cut enough plants to yield a quart of shelled
beans. Air dry; shell beans. Discard all
plant material except beans.
Packing: Place in clean quart jar or can;
shipping case.
Collect a quart of the vegetable. Chill.
Packing: Aluminum foil, paper bag, shipping
case
Beets, red
Collect four beets. Remove and discard tops.
Packing Aluminum foil, paper bag, shipping
case
Berries (all, includ-
ing strawberries)
Collect a quart of ripe berries. Carry a
flat of new 1-quart ice cream cartons and
place berries directly into these cartons as
they are picked. Freeze samples. Mark
'Perishable1
Packing: 1-quart ice cream cartons, ship-
ping case
-------
Broccoli
Collect about 1 pound of spears (15 to 20).
Chill samples. Mark 'Perishable1.
Packing: Aluminum foil, paper bag, shipping
case
Brussels Sprouts
Collect about Ipound of sprouts (15 to 25
sprouts).
Packing: Aluminum foil, paper bag, shipping
case
Cabbage
Collect two heads.
Packing: Aluminum foil, paper bag, shipping
case
Cantaloupe
Carrot
See Melons
Collect one bunch of carrots (6 to 10). Remove
and discard tops.
Packing: Aluminum foil, paper bag, shipping
case
Cauliflower
Celery
Corn (field and sweet)
See Cabbage.
Collect one bunch (6 to 10 stalks). Keep
samples chilled. Mark 'Perishable'.
Packing: Aluminum foil, paper bag, shipping
case
Collect 1 quart of kernels by removing 8 to
10 lengthwise rows of kernels per ear. Collect
three stalks; air dry; cut stalks into 6 to
10-inch lengths; thoroughly mix and retain
about 1 pound as the sample
Packing. Corn grain - clean quart jar or
can. Sweet corn kernels must be kept frozen
-------
or chilled and should be marked 'Perishable'.
Corn stalks - aluminum foil, paper bag, ship-
ping case
Cotton
Sample three to five mature cotton plants.
Where average plant height for the site does
not exceed 3 feet, take the entire plant.
Where average height is greater than 3 feet,
»
cut branches from the main stalk, uniformly
sampling the top, middle and bottom one-third
of each plant.
Packing: Remove all open bolls; wrap with
aluminum foil and place in a paper bag, then
in a shipping case. Cut plants or plant parts
into 6 to 10-inch lengths, retaining the green
bolls. Air dry and mix. Wrap about a pound
of this composite sample with aluminum foil
and place in a paper bag, then in a shipping
case.
Cucumber
Gather two or three mature cucumbers. Chill,
if possible.
Packing: Aluminum foil, paper bag, shipping
case
Eggplant
Collect one or two eggplants.
Packing: Aluminum foil, paper bag, shipping
case. Use packing material to prevent damage
during shipment.
Forage
Fruit (including
citrus, pomes,
stone fruit)
Sample when available. See Hay.
For small fruit such as cherries, collect
a quart of fruit. For larger fruit, collect
two or three fruit. Keep chilled.
-------
Packing: Pack fruit gently and securely in
suitable container to prevent injury during
shipment. Mark shipping container with 'Per-
ishable1 label.
Garlic
Collect 6 to 8 bulbs. Remove and discard
tops.
Packing: Aluminum foil, paper bag, shipping
case
Grains small (includ-
ing barley, buckwheat,
millet, flax, rice,
rye, wheat, wild rice,
etc.)
Grapes
Cut several handfuls of plants. Cut heads
from straw.
Packing: Heads should be packed separately
from straw. Composite about a pound of
straw for sample. Wrapping: aluminum foil,
paper bags, shipping cases
Collect a 1-pound bunch. Keep chilled.
Packing: Aluminum foil; pack securely in
shipping container (not too tightly). Mark
shipping container with a 'Perishable' label.
Hay
Sample near the end of growing season, but
before the last cutting. Cut small handfuls
of plants. If vegetation is sparse, take
forage within several square yards. Air dry,
mix thoroughly and retain about a pound for
sample. Packing: Aluminum foil, paper bag,
shipping case
-------
Leafy vegetables
(including chicory,
collards, endive,
escarole, field
cress, kale, leaf
lettuce, mustard
greens, parsley,
spinach, Swiss
chard, watercress,
etc.)
Lettuce, head
Melons (including
cantaloupe, honeydew,
watermelon, etc. )
Nuts and seeds
(except peanuts)
For small plants, gather leaves from three
plants. For large plants such as collards,
gather one plant.
Packing: Aluminum foil, paper bag, shipping
case
See Cabbage, keep chilled. Mark 'Perishable'.
Collect one melon. Keep chilled.
Packing: Aluminum foil, shipping cases
Collect 1 pint of nuts or seeds. Thrash
the seed.
Packing: Clean pint jar or can; shipping
case
Okra
Onion
Collect 6 to 8 okra.
Packing: Aluminum foil, paper bag, box
Collect two to three mature onions. Remove
and discard tops. Allow onions to dry
slightly before packing. Shake off soil
particles.
Packing: Aluminum foil, paper bag, shipping
case
Peas
See beans (for shelling).
-------
Peas, edible podded
(snowpeas, Chinese
peas)
See Beans, snap.
Peanuts
Collect enough plants to yield a pint of
shelled peanuts and about a pound of hulls
and vines. Air dry. Shell peanuts and retain
hulls and vines.
•
Packing: Clean pint jar or metal container
for peanuts. Aluminum foil, paper bag, box
for hulls and vines; shipping case
Pepper, bell (sweet)
Collect two or three peppers.
Packing: Aluminum foil, paper bag, box. Use
packing material to prevent damage. Keep
chilled. Mark shipping case with a 'Perish-
able1 label.
Pepper, hot
Collect eight to 10 hot peppers.
Packing: Aluminum foil, box. Keep chilled.
Peppermint
Potatoes, sweet or
white
Sample as for hay.
Collect two or three. Remove soil by shaking.
Packing: Aluminum foil, paper bag, suitable
container. Chill, if possible.
Pumpkin
Radishes
Gather one pumpkin.
Packing: Aluminum foil, suitable container
Collect six to eight radishes. Remove and
discard tops.
Packing: Aluminum foil, paper bag, box.
Chill, if possible.
-------
Rhubarb
Collect six stalks. Chill.
Packing: Aluminum foil, paper bag, shipping
case
Rutabaga
Collect three or four rutabaga. Remove tops
and discard.
Packing: Aluminum foil, suitable container
Scallions (spring
onions)
Silage, corn and
sorghum
Collect eight to 10. Shake off as much soil
as possible. Keep chilled. Mark 'Perishable1
Packing: Aluminum foil, plastic bag, cloth
bag, shipping case
Collect three stalks. Cut stalks into 6 to
10-inch lengths. Thoroughly mix, air dry and
retain 1 pound as sample.
Packing: Aluminum foil, paper bag, shipping
case
Sorghum, grain
Collect three plants. Remove heads. Air
dry. Cut stalks into 6 to 10-inch lengths.
Thoroughly air dry, mix and retain 1 pound as
sample.
Packing: Pack heads and stalks separately.
Wrapping: Aluminum foil, paper bag, shipping
case
Soybeans
Cut enough plants to yield a pint of shelled
beans and about a pound of vines. Air dry;
shell beans.
Packing: Vines - aluminum foil, paper bag
Beans - clean pint jar or can, shipping case
-------
Spearmint
Sample as for Hay.
Squash, summer
(yellow, white,
zucchini)
Summer squash should be harvested when small
and tender. Gather two squash.
Packing: Keep chilled. Aluminum foil, paper
bag, box.
Squash, winter
(acorn, butternut,
hubbard, etc.)
Sugar beets
Tobacco
Winter squashes should be harvested when
mature. Collect two mature winter squashes.
Packing: Aluminum foil, cases suitable for
shipment
Collect two sugar beets. Remove tops; keep
chilled.
Packing: Beets - wrap individually with alu-
minum foil and pack in shipping case. Tops -
aluminum foil, paper bag, shipping case
Collect two or three ripe leaves.
Packing: Aluminum foil, paper bag, box
Tomatoes
Tomatoes, cherry
Collect two tomatoes. Keep chilled. Mark
shipping case with a 'Perishable1 label.
Packing: Wrap individually in aluminum foil
and pack carefully in suitable container.
(Use packing material to protect tomatoes.)
Collect 10 to 12 cherry tomatoes. Keep
chilled.
Packing: New 1-pint ice cream cartons, suit-
able shipping container. Mark 'Perishable'.
Turf
Follow instructions for Hay.
-------
Turnips Collect four to six turnips. Remove tops and
freeze.
Packing: Pack tops and roots separately.
For both: aluminum foil, paper bag, box
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