Bees and butterflies are buzzing as spring is in the air. It’s that time of year again: planting season!

Farmers today rely on neonicotinoid products as a tool to manage destructive insects, increase yields and boost revenues, but they are also committed to the importance of protecting bees and the surrounding environment. This spring, farmers and applicators can take 5 steps to BeSure! they’re using neonics and other crop protection products safely.

For Farmers:

1. Follow directions on treated-seed container labeling for handling, storage, planting and disposal practices.
2. Use advanced seed flow lubricants that minimize dust.
3. Eliminate flowering plants and weeds in and around the field prior to planting.
4. At planting, be aware of honey bees and hives near the field, and communicate with beekeepers when possible.
5. Completely remove all treated seed left in containers and equipment used to handle harvested grain, and dispose of it properly. Keep all treated seed out of the commodity grain channels.

For Applicators:

1. Comply with all regulations for registered pesticide products, and ensure proper employee training.
2. Establish written application protocols using best practices to ensure high-quality seed treatment application and minimize dust-off.
3. Adopt stewardship documentation for full lifecycle of seed treatment products.
4. Properly discard of treatment, treated seed and rinse water to minimize environmental impact.
5. Ensure that all required and pertinent seed treatment information is conveyed to customers through product labels and education.

To learn more about best-management practices to protect both crops and pollinators while handling, planting and disposing of seeds treated with neonics, visit BeSure!, powered by the Growing Matters coalition, National Pesticide Safety Education Center and American Seed Trade Association.