Administrative Rules of Montana
Department 4 - AGRICULTURE
Chapter 4.12 - AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES DIVISION
Subchapter 4.12.12 - Alfalfa Leaf-cutting Bee Rules
Rule 4.12.1225 - BEE SAMPLING PROCEDURE FOR THE CERTIFICATION OF BEES

(a) All bees must be in loose cell stage before samples can be taken.

(b) A 2 ounce sample shall be taken from each 200 pounds of bees requested for certification. An official sample size shall not consist of less than 8 ounces. If the beekeeper requests for certification more than 200 pounds, then the cocoon larvae will be divided into 200 pound lots and official samples shall be obtained from each lot. All official samples shall become the property of the committee.

(c) Once the official sample has been obtained, the remaining composite sample shall be officially sealed and left in the possession of the owner/manager. The owner/manager has 30 days from date of receipt of certification to appeal the original laboratory test results.

(d) All samples shall be collected using a random sampling procedure, i.e., a uniform sample from the top, middle, and bottom within the bee storage containers.

(e) All official samples shall be obtained by department personnel in the presence of the owner/manager of the bees or the owner/manager under the direct supervision of the department.

(f) All official sample containers shall be sealed with a label showing lot number, date sampled, and signature of department employee.

(g) All official sample lot numbers must correspond with lot numbers attached to beekeeper storage containers.

(h) A grower whose total bees consist of less than 100 pounds may have an official sample consisting of a 2 ounce sample drawn from each 20 pounds of bees; and from a composite sample an official sample of 4 ounces may be drawn.