BBC LABORATORIES
Agricultural & Environmental Microbiological Services

Introduction

These samples will be analyzed for living components, so it is necessary to take precautions that ensure the compost stays cool (never frozen) and is shipped for rapid delivery to the laboratory. It is important to ship samples the same day that they are taken. If delays occur, store samples in the refrigerator until shipping.

Upon request, the laboratory will provide a sample kit including: shipping containers, gel packs (blue ice), sample bags, labels, Chain of Custody forms and instructions for sampling at shipping cost. International shipments will require USDA labels and permits, please inquire before shipping.

Sampling Procedure

1. Freeze the gel packs (blue ice) for use during shipping.
2. Each compost sample should consist of 6-10 sub-samples taken from the same compost pile. These sub-samples should be taken from 12-18 inches inside the pile. Combine all sub-samples in the same bag. The total sample should be approximately 1/2 - 2/3 of a gallon bag. If there are any questions about sampling please call laboratory for assistance.
3. Clean the collecting tool between each sample using water and a paper towel or preferably, isopropyl alcohol and a paper towel. It is not necessary to clean the tool between sub-samples, but it is necessary to clean it between different samples.
4. Label samples, double bag samples (using zip lock bags), and place in shipping container with frozen gel packs. Apply USDA sticker for international shipments.
5. Enclose the completed Chain of Custody form in a plastic bag. Determine analysis needs and check appropriate boxes (see following selections):
   • -6 Functional Group Enumeration and Species Richness Diversity analysis
   • -Compost Maturity
   • -Compost Stability
   • -Pathogen Inhibiton Assays (Indicate pathogens to be challenged)
   • -Pathogen Testing (E. coli and Salmonella, Fecal coliforms, Total coliforms)
6. SHIP CONTAINER ON MONDAY THROUGH THURSDAY FOR NEXT DAY DELIVERY TO:
   • SAMPLE RECEIVING
   • BBC LABORATORIES
   • 1217 NORTH STADEM DRIVE
   • TEMPE, AZ 85281