Hay Sampling Made Easy with Hay Chec

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Proper Use of Hay Chec™

1. Count the number of bales in the stack to be sampled.

2. Divide the number of bales by 15 (if using a pint size jar) or by 30 (if using a quart size jar). This will tell you how many bales you must pass by between each probe.

3. Probe the ends of the bales, not the top or sides. Make sure you probe the bales at the same tier level each time. Watch out for wires, one wire can ruin your whole day! (Your goal on the above steps is to obtain a truly random sample of the hay stack.)

4. It is easier to probe bales that are a little below your shoulder level. Start your probe about two feet from the bale and follow through. Let your shoulders do the work, not your back. Make sure the probe goes into the bale all the way each time.

5. Make sure you push the probe into the bale in a straight line. If you push down on the handles toward the end of the stroke you can bend the stainless steel tube. The tube wall thickness is the best compromise between a probe that is easy to use and one that will bend!

6. Check that the tube is empty after each probe. If it is not, use your tamper.

7. After probing the stack, put the lid on the jar IMMEDIATELY. Do not wait until you get back to your vehicle.

Helpful Hints

1. Keep your jars open, clean, and at the same temperature as the outside air prior to use as best you can.

2. Remember, you want to present to the lab the hay just as it was when it was inside the bale. Use common sense, if it is 110 degrees outside and 70 degrees inside then you do not want to open the jar until the temperature inside the jar has stabilized, unless you are going to analyze the jar tool. Do not put a piece of paper inside the jar to identify, the stack-paper absorbs moisture. The accuracy of any analysis begins with the quality of the sample you bring to the lab.

3. Do not over sharpen the probe. Too sharp an edge will fold over. You will find through experience an edge that will last and still cut clean. Use a 600 grit silicone carbide sanding strip to sharpen the tip. If the tip edge gets folded in; use your tamper to restore it. If it gets folded out, roll it on any hard flat surface.

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