Protecting Honeybees from Pesticides What the beekeeper can do Presented by: Darin Record and Twin Cedar Bees www.twincedarbees.com

Know the threat Types of pesticides Common pesticides in this area: Chlorpyrifos (Lorsban, Dursban) Sevin/Carbaryl Less common in this area Neonics Clothianidin, Imidacloprid, Thiamethoxam Imidacloprid is the most widely used insecticide in the world Fungicides May lack acute toxicity, but has long-term overall health effects Sub-lethal exposure/Cumulative dose Methods of application Spray, injection, ground application/systemic

Washington State and Agriculture Very Farmer-Friendly Large backing by Chemical and Agricultural markets Very little pollinator protection All pollinator protection legislation has failed to date Pesticide applicators ARE responsible for drift, but only drift No notification requirement “The label is the Law”, but recommendations are not. Register your hives

First steps Communication is key Know what is being applied Educate Get to know your neighbors Ask for notification 24 hours before application (No actual requirement) Ask what exactly is being applied and how Know what is being applied Growers/applicators are not always the best informed; do your own research Chemicals may not have the information on the labeling you need Educate Importance of pollinating insects Apply during times of low pollinator activity At night or early morning before sunrise

Beekeeper Actions: Pre-Application Before the chemical is applied: 1) Move your hives Must be done at night or early morning Must have a vehicle capable Need a location for the duration Best option 2) Screen/plug entrances Not feasible/recommended during warm/hot weather Hives may still be affected by drift 3) Cover hives with burlap and apply a sprinkler Bees still can get out Intent is to keep the colony cool and mimic a rainy/cold day Leave in place for several hours after spraying is completed or overnight if possible The water may help remove chemicals from the bees and/or exterior of the hives

WSDA Info

Beekeeper Actions: Post-Application Wait the recommended time (re-entry interval) before returning hives Document (Photos, video) any kill found. Communicate WSDA EPA

Symptoms of Insecticide Poisoning in Bee Colonies Excessive number of dead or dying bees Extended proboscis in dead bees Reduced number of forager bees “Crawlers” or bees that cannot fly or walk around seemingly disoriented.

Conclusion Please visit: www.twincedarbees.com/links for more info.