Bureau of Compliance Monitoring
Field Inspection
The field specialists in the Bureau of Compliance Monitoring are responsible for:
Samples of commercial fertilizers are collected for analyses to assure that purchasers are receiving specified plant nutrients and are randomly sampled for Heavy Metals pursuant to Chapter 576, Florida Statutes.
Samples of seed are collected for analyses to determine the viability and purity of seed for planting purposes pursuant to Chapter 578, Florida Statutes.
Through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Bureau field specialist conduct inspections to assess compliance with 21 CFR, Part 589.2000 (The Ruminant Feed Ban) and collect samples of feed products to prevent the feeding of materials that could cause Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) to cattle or other ruminant animals. Samples of commercial feeds and feedstuffs are also collected and analyzed for potential contaminants or adulterants pursuant to Chapter 580, Florida Statutes, when implicated by a veterinarian as a potential cause of animal illness or injury.
Pesticides are sampled to determine if active ingredients are present as guaranteed. Labels are reviewed for proper directions for use.
Irrigation systems that apply chemicals are inspected to assure that anti-backflow devices are present, as required under Chapters 487 and 576, Florida Statutes.
Field inspection activities further ensure compliance with the Florida Pesticide Law, Chapter 487, Florida Statutes and associated rules. Inspections and investigations are performed to determine compliance with requirements covering worker protection, pesticide registration, proper pesticide use and applicator licensing. This involves conducting both for cause and routine inspections of pesticide manufacturers, distributors, dealers, and users and taking appropriate actions if violations have occurred. Warning letters, fines, license suspension, probation or revocation, as well as informational letters and other measures are included in these functions. Through a cooperative agreement with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Bureau also documents violations of federal pesticide laws and rules. Case files which involve such violations may be submitted to the EPA for enforcement action.
Contact: Bruce A. Nicely (nicelyb@doacs.state.fl.us)
