Protecting bees and other pollinators from insecticides

Pollination is vital for producing many seed crops, particularly for legumes such as alfalfa, clovers, and vetch. In contrast, most grass-type plants are wind or self-pollinated and do not require insect pollinators.

Where pollen-collecting insects are required for flower fertilization, the producer, insecticide applica- tor, and beekeeper should cooperate closely to mini- mize bee losses:

• If practical, apply insecticides before the bees are moved into the fields for
• Where insecticides are needed, use materials that are the least toxic to bees (Table A26).
• Make all applications when the bees are away from the field. Evening or early-morning treat- ments between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m. are generally best. Evening applications after the bees have left the field are less hazardous than are early- morning
• Use spray or granular formulations rather than
• When possible, use an insecticide in groups 3 or 4 in Table
• Notify the beekeeper so that he or she can make arrangements to protect the bees.
• Avoid drifting or spraying any insecticide directly on colonies. Heavy losses generally occur in these On hot evenings, bees often cluster on the fronts of the hives. Pesti- cide drift or direct spray at this time will kill many bees.