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Pesticides and pollinators
Story Date: 5/14/2012
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Source: BAYER CROP SCIENCE AND CROP LIFE AMERICA, 5/10/12
Last week, MSNBC ran a story regarding an alleged link betwen pesticides (specifically seed treatment products) and honey bees (click here to see). This was similar to a story run by NBC Nightly News a few weeks ago. Bayer CropScience contacted NBC while the story was in production and offered to share scientific information on bees, their health, recent studies and the importance of seed treatments to agriculture.
In an interview conducted in NBC studios in New York City, Dr. David Fischer, director of ecotoxicology for Bayer CropScience, went on camera and provided valuable information on our belief in the safety of Ag products, particularly for honey bees. Specifically during the interview it was discussed:
1. There has been no demonstrated effect under field conditions on bee colony health associated with the use of neonicotinoid-based insecticides. Insecticides based on this class of chemicals are noted for their effectiveness in controlling harmful pests and their relatively favorable environmental impact.
2. Innovative seed treatment technology represents an environmentally sound approach to crop protection. Treating the seed provides a targeted and effective means of application that reduces the number of spray applications of an insecticide, helps increase yields, safeguards our environment and ensures a sustainable means of crop production.
3. Poor bee health is very complicated and there are a number of known factors involved. These include diseases, parasites (especially the Varroa mite), extreme environmental and climatic factors and also certain agricultural and apicultural practices.
4. Bayer is committed to bee health and has been actively involved in finding solutions to improve honey bee health for more than 25 years. As a company dedicated to crop protection, Bayer is committed to environmental stewardship and sustainable agricultural practices, including the protection of beneficial insects such as honey bees.
If you need more information on Bayer’s commitment to bee health in the US, visit http://www.bayercropscience.us/our-commitment/bee-health
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