The Growing Matters coalition is reminding farmers to read and follow the label to help maximize product efficacy and keep wildlife safe.

The benefits to using neonicotinoids are plentiful – their effectiveness against harmful pests and relative safety to beneficial insects like pollinators are what make them the cornerstones of modern Integrated Pest Management (IPM).

By preserving beneficial insects and keeping pest populations in check, the need for additional pest treatments is lessened. Studies show that just 1 pound of neonicotinoids can replace 5 pounds of other pesticides and even minimize the threat of pest resistance.

To BeSure! that we’re doing right by our wildlife and preserving beneficial insect populations when using these favored IPM tools, growers should always follow label directions and responsible stewardship practices regardless of application method. Product labels list precautions, such as proper storage, use and disposal details, guidance about drift and pollinator protection, and applicator safety information. BeSure! to reread the label with every new purchase.

Farmers should comply with all local and state regulations and ensure employees are properly trained prior to application. They can look to state and county departments of agriculture, as well as local crop advisors, for information about pollinator protection and product stewardship. Applying products at the labeled rate with the proper timing and placement safeguards against pest resistance and ensures optimal efficacy. It can also be helpful to leverage tools provided by states, like GIS mapping programs or flags for apiary locations.

Taking these steps brings you closer to achieving proper pesticide use and fulfilling your role in our shared effort to protect pollinator populations. BeSure! that you observe all regulatory best practices and consult state and local authorities with any questions.

BeSure! to check out more tips from the Growing Matters coalition. For additional information about regulatory best practices, please visit www.growingmatters.org/besure.

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