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EPA, don’t ignore this big threat to bees
Bees need help
Tell EPA to include neonic-treated seeds in its pollinator protection plan. Speak up before the comment period closes on June 29!
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Federal agencies are finally doing something to help protect pollinators — but that “something” is not nearly enough.
EPA’s latest plan does narrowly address use of neonicotinoids (neonics) and other bee-harming pesticides, but it entirely overlooks the most common application of these chemicals: seed coatings. Tell the agency to step it up!
Tackle this head on, EPA » Coating seed with neonics is a common practice that leads to widespread pollinator exposure. Because neonics are systemic pesticides, they're taken up through the seed and spread throughout all parts of a plant — including to pollen and nectar. Bad news for bees!
Each year, neonic-treated seeds are planted on about 200 million acres of farmland in the U.S. — including almost all of the corn and more than half of soybeans. Many other seeds, including canola, are also coated. Yet seed treatments aren’t technically considered a “pesticide use” by EPA, so they’re letting it slide.
EPA’s proposed plan only addresses foliar applications (pesticides directly sprayed on a plant) when certain plants are in bloom, and when commercial honeybees are being used to pollinate these crops.
Bees need real help! » The science is clear: neonics are a key contributing factor to declining pollinator populations, and seed treatments are a primary route of exposure. Tell EPA to get in gear, and take meaningful action on neonic-treated seeds! And fast. |
