Guidelines for Sampling from Your Compost Pile: A Step-by-Step Instructional Guide.

Guidelines for pulling samples from compost piles:

When it comes to collecting samples from compost piles, it is again very important to maintain guidelines for accurate and reliable results.

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.

More Notes on Sample Collection:

1. Ensure that you collect samples from randomly selected places within the compost pile. This random selection helps in obtaining a representative sample that reflects the overall composition of the pile.

2. It is essential to use clean tools for sample collection to prevent any contamination that could skew the results. Avoid using dirty tools that may introduce any foreign elements into the sample.

3. Make sure to fill the MBG Sample Kitbox with sufficient sample material to the best of your ability.

4. Windrow Sampling: You can randomly collect a larger amount of compost in a separate bin or container and then mix that material thoroughly. (THIS IS THE ONLY TIME WE EVER SUGGEST CHURNING. Don't over do it.) Fill the MBG Sample Kitbox from this mix.

5. Static Pile Sampling: Choose from the oldest most decomposed areas of the pile. Schedule a consult with us for more privatized custom information that works for you.

6. Keep disturbance to a minimum.

7. Make sure to fill out the analogue Data Sheet included in the MBG Sample Kitbox. Take a photo of the filled out sheet with the the Sample Registration Code.

8. Then RETURN the Sample Data Registration document to the ziploc bag and seal it shut. Make sure to include the bag and document to the Sample kitbox.

9. Make a note of your Sample Registration Bar Code on the Registration Sheet. Use this number to Register your lab test on our website here.

10. Make sure you are selecting collection sites in the pile that are inside the pile approximately an elbow deep (for a 4 ft by 4ft pile) or more. This depth can slightly fluctuate but be as consistent as possible.

11. Please tape shut the Sample box before shipping when possible to prevent possible tampering of sample material.

12. Use

By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure the reliability and validity of the samples collected for analysis.