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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

7. WSDA Info

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

9. 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.

10. Conclusion
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