Frequently, research overseas involves the collection of biological or organic specimens and possible import of those specimens back into the U.S.
It is important researchers understand that the collection of specimens overseas requires the permission and approval of local and/or national governments to collect specimens legally. Specimens might include both animal or plant species, soil samples, water samples, etc.
Please make sure to gain all necessary collecting permits from foreign governments before collecting any specimens.
In additional to collecting permits from the country in which you are collecting, you might also need permission to bring those specimens back to the U.S.
Agencies such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or U.S. Customs Agency could have oversight of imports of specimens. The state of California will also have restrictions on importing specimens to the state.
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