

The Oregon Department of Agriculture is currently banning over 18 pesticides containing dinotefuran, which has been linked to honey-bee die-off while investigations continue on the major bee deaths which happened this past month in both Wilsonville and Hillsboro, Oregon. Oregon Department of Agriculture director Katy Coba reports:

I have directed the agency to take this step in an effort to minimize any potential for additional incidents involving bee deaths connected to pesticide products with this active ingredient until such time as our investigation is completed and we have more information. Conclusions from the investigation will help us and our partners evaluate whether additional steps need to be considered.

This is a temporary ban, during which the Oregon Department of Agriculture has 180 days to conduct a thorough investigation into the two major bee death incidents and determine if a negligent or over-use of pesticides was the cause.

A list of bee neonicontinoids containing products can be found here.

This new restriction will include both professional and homeowner use of ornamental, agricultural and turf pesticide products which contain dinotefuran. If the product contains this ingredient, but focus on other uses such as flea, tick, ant and roach control, apparently they will not be affected. The main concern is directed toward pesticides on pollinating plants such as those which would directly affect the bee population.

The Oregon Department of Agriculture statute gives them the right to create limitations and implement procedures in order to protect the bee and pollinating insect populations. This ban taking place now in Oregon on 18 pesticides will hopefully determine whether bees in the area and abroad will be safe and avoid future die-offs due to human negligence and error. It is critical that we protect the bee population as they determine the growth cycle of over 80% of the food we eat.

Written by: Stasia Bliss

Sources: Political Blind Spot