What equipment does an inspector normally use to do an inspection?
Inspectors are highly trained and educated individuals with degrees in relevant fields. At a minimum, an inspector will use a hand-lens or loupe to examine plants in order to determine the viability of any insects, eggs or diseases observed. Action is only taken if the pest or pests are alive. Cast skins, or treated and killed insects, eggs or diseases are not actionable unless the overall health of the plant is compromised. An inspector may also carry an aspirator, vials of alcohol, a paintbrush, tweezers and any other supplies which facilitate taking samples of plant pests. These samples will then be submitted to our state entomologist or pathologist for identification.
