How can you protect honey bees from pesticides in almond orchards?

1 Pesticide types and effects

Pesticides are substances that are used to control pests, such as insects, fungi, weeds, or rodents. They can be classified into different categories based on their target, mode of action, chemical structure, or formulation. Some common types of pesticides used in almond orchards are insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, and rodenticides. Pesticides can affect honey bees in various ways, depending on their toxicity, dose, exposure route, and persistence. Some pesticides can kill honey bees directly, while others can impair their behavior, learning, memory, immunity, or reproduction.

2 Pesticide regulation and labeling

Pesticides are regulated by federal and state agencies to ensure their safety and effectiveness. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for registering and evaluating pesticides, setting tolerances for residues, and enforcing compliance. The California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) is responsible for licensing and training pesticide applicators, monitoring and enforcing pesticide use, and conducting environmental and human health assessments. Pesticides have labels that provide information on their ingredients, hazards, directions for use, precautions, and restrictions. Pesticide labels also indicate whether they are toxic to bees or other pollinators, and how to minimize the risk of exposure.

3 Pesticide application and timing

Pesticide application and timing are critical factors that influence the exposure and impact of pesticides on honey bees. Application refers to the method, equipment, and rate of applying pesticides to the target area, while timing refers to the time of day, season, and crop stage when pesticides are applied. To protect honey bees from pesticides in almond orchards, it is important to avoid applying pesticides during bloom when bees are actively foraging on the flowers, when they are present in the orchard or flying to or from the hive, and when there is a risk of drift, runoff, or contamination of water sources, bee equipment, or non-target plants. Furthermore, you should choose pesticides with low toxicity, short residual activity, and selective action on pests. Finally, follow the label instructions and recommendations for pesticide application and timing.

4 Pesticide alternatives and integrated pest management

Pesticide alternatives and integrated pest management (IPM) are approaches that aim to reduce the reliance on pesticides and enhance the natural control of pests. To protect honey bees from pesticides in almond orchards, you should consider using biological control agents, such as predators, parasites, or pathogens, which can target specific pests without harming bees or other beneficial organisms. Additionally, cultural practices, such as crop rotation, sanitation, irrigation, pruning, or mulching can reduce pest populations and improve crop health. Mechanical devices like traps, barriers, or nets can also be used to capture and exclude pests from the crop area. Botanical extracts like neem, garlic, or mint act as repellents, antifeedants, or growth inhibitors for pests without being as toxic or persistent as synthetic pesticides.

5 Pesticide communication and coordination

Pesticide communication and coordination are essential to ensure the effective and safe use of pesticides in almond orchards, and to protect honey bees from pesticide exposure. Communication refers to the exchange of information and notification among the stakeholders involved in pesticide use, such as growers, applicators, beekeepers, regulators, and researchers. Coordination involves planning and cooperation among the stakeholders to avoid or mitigate conflicts, risks, or impacts related to pesticide use. To protect honey bees from pesticides in almond orchards, you should strive to establish a good relationship with the growers, applicators, and beekeepers in your area. Additionally, inform and consult with beekeepers before applying pesticides to the orchard. It is also important to follow best management practices and regulations for pesticide use in almond orchards, and report any incidents or violations to the authorities. Furthermore, monitor and evaluate the effects of pesticide use on honey bees, pests, crops, and the environment, and share results with stakeholders. Finally, seek out new technologies that can improve pesticide efficiency, accuracy, and safety.

6 Here’s what else to consider

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