PRACTICES

Pollinator protection: Best practices for growers

Farming has always been the cultivation of a product within a living ecosystem. From those who grew up on farms to those who have found a love of agriculture, the saying “you give to the land and the land gives back to you” holds true. This includes everything from the soil to the organisms that live around crops. In recent years, more attention has been paid to pollinators and how growers, farmers and consumers alike can provide safe habitats for them.

Insects, including honeybees and wild bee species, beetles, wasps and butterflies, are all important pollinators.

Allison Walston, Senior Valent Field Market Development Specialist, conducts research on how Valent products perform in field trials to educate crop consultants and growers on best practices. An entomologist, Walston has spent more than 20 years in the agriculture industry helping stakeholders better understand how to utilize crop inputs while remaining mindful of pollinator protection.

“From farmers, growers, chemical companies to beekeepers, we are all in this together,” she says. “The better we can communicate and work together, the more we can help protect pollinators.”

1. Read, know and follow the label

Before using any product, read the label carefully to understand and follow use directions and precautions. Studying the product label can greatly impact safe handling for growers and pollinators, as some products require specific application techniques and timing restrictions.

2. Determine if pesticides may impact pollinators

Since 2013, the EPA has required products harmful to honeybees to carry a bee advisory. When label directions and stewardship practices are followed, pesticides can be used responsibly around pollinators. Plan ahead by identifying products and reviewing any bee advisory warnings and restrictions.

3. Understand pollinator visitation habits

Pollinators are active throughout much of the growing season, and honeybees can travel several miles to forage. Be aware of blooming crops and weeds and follow label guidance on application timing relative to bloom stages.

Signs of pesticide exposure can resemble other issues such as mites, starvation or disease. Monitor for warning signs like disoriented bees or reduced activity and consult a beekeeper if needed.

4. Follow IPM principles

“It all starts with scouting,” says Walston. Growers should identify pests early and work with advisors to determine action thresholds. Applying products only when needed is a key part of an effective Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program.

Using the right product, rate, timing and placement helps maximize efficacy while minimizing risk. Learn more about Valent crop protection solutions and stewardship practices.

5. Follow stewardship practices and plan applications carefully

Once products are selected, plan application timing carefully. If minimizing pollinator exposure is the goal, consider applying products in the evening or at night when bees are less active.

Seed treatment stewardship practices

Modern seed treatments are designed to be safer for both growers and pollinators. Use closed-system equipment to reduce dust and exposure. Properly handle treated seed, monitor environmental conditions and follow all label directions for storage and disposal.

• Follow all label directions for handling, storage and disposal
• Avoid spraying during windy conditions
• Calibrate sprayers regularly
• Prevent off-target movement near water sources

6. Work with local beekeepers and stakeholders

Communication between growers, applicators and beekeepers is essential for pollinator protection. Establish relationships, share plans and coordinate efforts to reduce risk.

Tools like FieldWatch help connect stakeholders with real-time information about crops and hive locations to support safe application decisions.

Additional best practices include:

• Identify hive locations before applications
• Eliminate flowering weeds in treatment areas
• Provide pollinator forage in non-crop areas
• Consider surrounding landscape features when planning applications

It is also important to review state and local regulations related to pollinator protection. For more information and additional stewardship tips, visit GrowingMatters.org.

To learn more about Valent products and best practices, visit the Solutions page or contact a sales rep.