Surveyors should complete twenty sweeps at each sampling site. All insects collected during a set of sweeps constitute one sample. Once 20 sweeps have been completed at the sampling site, the net should be flipped over or quickly closed to prevent escape. The net should be inverted into a gallon-sized re-sealable bag or other container for transportation back to the lab. The bag/container should be placed in a cooler for transportation.
At the lab, the entire re-sealable bag or container should be placed in the freezer for a minimum of 24 hours. After this time, the bag contents should be dumped into a sorting pan.
Sort the samples: remove debris and non-target species. The taxonomic level of sorting will depend on the expertise available on hand and can be confirmed with the identifier. Some states may have taxonomic support, access to local training aids, or identification guides.
If possible, screen for the target pest. Screening is a process of eliminating non-target families, genera, or "look-a-like" species in the sample. When in doubt, forward the specimens to the identifier.
Once sorting and screening (if possible) have been completed, place specimens into vials of 75-90% ethanol and submit for identification. Follow the instructions in
Procedures for Submitting Survey Samples to Domestic and Other Identifiers for additional guidance on sample submission.