These recommendations for pulling samples from 1/4 Acre property lend themselves to most other sampling situations as well.

Make sure when you are selecting your sampling locations, you select at random.

Make sure you supply us with at least 5 sample cores. Be sure to provide more if possible. Try to fill the MBG Sample Kitbox as best as possible.

Make sure you create a Sample Collection Map and collect photos of sample collection locations. Mark and photograph each collection location.

Make a hand-drawn map of sample locations pulled and marked to add to your Sample Project File later in the MBG Platform.

Make sure you keep "like" samples together. For example, don't pull samples from the lawn and then pull samples from the landscaping and count them as the same sample.

In Summary:

These guidelines for collecting samples from a 1/4 Acre property can be applied to various other sampling scenarios.

Ensure that the selection of sampling locations is done randomly.

Provide a minimum of 5 sample cores, with the option to include more if possible. Aim to fill the MBG Sample Kitbox to capacity.

Create a Sample Collection Map and take photos of the sampling locations. Clearly mark and photograph each collection site.

Prepare a hand-drawn map of the sampled locations, marked for future reference in your Sample Project File on the MBG Platform.

Keep similar samples grouped together. For instance, avoid mixing lawn samples with landscaping samples and treating them as one.

Soil Sampling Protocol for the Biological Approach to Growing Plants.

Objective

To collect soil samples that accurately represent the biological diversity and health of the soil in a given area, using a randomized core collection method and mapping of collection points.

Equipment Needed

- MBG Soil Core Puller (Kitbox included).

- Collection Kitbox (included mailer).

- MBG Pen

- GPS device or smartphone with GPS capability

- Camera or smartphone with camera

- Gloves (optional)

- Notebook and pen

Preparation

1. Create a Collection Map: Draw a map of the sampling area, marking potential sampling points. Ensure these points are randomly distributed across the area to avoid bias.

2. Identify Sampling Area: Define the boundaries of the area to be sampled. Notate them on your drawing/map/photo. Identify the target of this test. This could be a field, garden, solitary tree, or any other designated plot.

Sampling Procedure

Step 1: Randomized Sampling Points

1. Randomize Collection Points: Use a random selection of the sample collection points in your project area.

2. Mark Points on your Map: Plot these points on your collection map.

3. Take Photos: Make sure you take photos to correspond with the sampling points on your map. Also photograph the soil surface at each of these locations to upload to your sample file. These photos will help us to help you. The more information we have to work with, the better we can help you.

Step 2: Core Collection

1. Prepare Equipment: Ensure the MBG Soil Core Puller is clean and ready for use.

2. Complete Sample Registration Document: Make a note of the Registration Number on the document with the collection box to register your sample with us online.

Step 3: Collecting the Samples

1. Navigate to Sampling Point: Use the GPS device to locate the first randomized sampling point.

2. Document Location:

   - Take a close-up photo of the exact spot where you will insert the soil core puller.

   - Take a full photo showing the broader context of the sampling location.

3. Insert Soil Core Puller:

   - Insert the soil core puller into the soil.

   - Rotate and pull out the core, ensuring a consistent sample depth.

4. Transfer to Soil Sample Kitbox: Place the soil core into the corresponding labeled collection box.

5. Record Details: In your notebook, record the GPS coordinates, date, time, and any notable observations about the sampling location.

Step 4: Repeat Process

1. Move to Next Point: Repeat the above steps for each randomized sampling point.

2. Document Each Point: Ensure each sampling point is documented with photos and recorded details.

Post-Sampling

Step 1: Review Collection Map

1. Verify Completeness: Ensure all randomized points have been sampled and documented on your collection map.

Step 2: Store Samples

1. Seal Boxes: Ensure all collection bags are properly sealed to prevent contamination.

2. Store Samples: Store the samples in a cool, dark place until they can be shipped.

Step 3: Data Management

1. Organize Photos: Label and organize the photos corresponding to each sampling point.

2. Compile Data: Compile all recorded data, photos, and the collection map into a single report for analysis.

Analysis

- Send Samples for Analysis: Send the soil samples to our lab specializing in soil food web analysis to assess biological diversity and soil health.

- Review Results: Use the results to inform soil management and plant growth strategies based on the biological approach.

This protocol ensures a thorough and unbiased collection of soil samples, providing valuable insights into the biological health of your soil. Proper documentation and randomization are key to obtaining accurate and representative data.