The American Soybean Associated (ASA) submitted comments to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) this week on their registration reviews of neonicotinoid (neonics) risk assessments. ASA emphasized the importance of neonics as an effective pesticide used by producers to attach below-ground pests like the seedcorn maggot or above-ground pests like the soybean aphid or the bean leaf beetle. The pesticide is also a valuable tool as part of integrated pest management program as well as using in rotation with other crop protections to manage resistance.

ASA’s comments also reflect the importance of neonics in conservation. Many producers have adopted reduced tillage practices and increased use of cover crops, which together can reduce erosion and improve soil health and water quality. However, these practices also increase many soil insects. Without having an effective tool like neonics available, fewer producers may adopt these practices.

“If this option is taken off the table, producers would be forced to choose more expensive, less effective tools to combat pests,” ASA notes in the comments. “In fact, replacing neonicotinoids is estimated to cost U.S. farmers nearly $850 million per year. Not only would it cost more, but producers would have to switch to older, less effective products and increase the amount of pesticides applied to crops.”

ASA’s full comments can be found here.