The Ontario government has announced new rules to cut the use of a pesticide that’s blamed for killing millions of bees.
Neonicotinoids, or “neonics”, are used as an insecticide on corn and soy crops, but have proven to be toxic to bees and other important pollinators.
Agriculture Minister Jeff Leal announced plan today to cut the use of neonics by 80% by the summer of 2016.
Last winter, 58% of the honey bees in Ontario died. Beekeepers say they hope the new rules will bring that percentage down.
“Hopefully we can get back to our normal loss of 10-15%,” said beekeeper Peter Dickey. “Our honey crop should go up because the bees will be able to navigate their way back to the hive and not get lost in the field.”
The government says preserving pollinators is crucial for the health of a variety of food crops.
“We recognize there is a roll to play in terms of the reduction of neonics in the province of Ontario,” said Leal. “We want to make sure our pollinators remain healthy because they are a vital component of a healthy agriculture sector in Ontario.”
Under the proposed regulations, farmers will be required to complete pest management training and provide documentation before purchasing seed that has been chemically treated.
Companies that make and sell neonics and the Grain Farmers of Ontario say they are disappointed with the province’s decision.
“The regulators who approve chemicals for use in Canada are still re-evaluating the product. Ontario is stepping ahead of that science and moving in a direction that’s going to put Ontario and farmers at a disadvantage to farmers in the rest of the country,” said Henry Van Ankum of the Grain Farmers of Ontario.
