A few tools will make crop scouting easier and more precise. The whole works can be carried in a small bag or box in the truck, to be readily available when it's needed:

1. A "shake sheet" or piece of fabric (white or black in color) about three feet square. The sheet is placed between two rows, then plants from the rows on either side are vigorously shaken to dislodge whatever insects are present. "I also like to carry a small box--a cigar box is about right--to make spot checks as I go through the field," said Andy Vangilder.
2. A small magnifying glass of 5 to 10 power: A lithographer's folding glass works well. This comes in handy when you need to see tiny things such as spider mites and bollworm/budworm eggs.
3. A pocketknife to slice open cotton bolls or plant stalks. Most farmers own at least one pocketknife, but if you keep one in the kit, it will always be there when you need it.
4. A few small plastic vials--the kind that can be stoppered--to hold insects you may need help in identifying.
5. Plastic zip-top sandwich bags to hold plant tissue that may need scrutiny by a specialist.