9/29/2016
New Minnesota Rule Restricts Neonics
Chris Beytes
Wanting to make Minnesota a leader in protecting pollinators, the state’s governor, Mark Dayton, announced new guidelines for neonicotinoid use by farms and nurseries.
“We can show the nation how better to both farm and enjoy nature and have great lawns and everything, but also be cognizant of the impact of neonicotinoids,” Governor Dayton told the press at the Minnesota State Fair.
Under the new order, farmers and nursery owners who want to use a neonic insecticide will have to prove to the Department of Agriculture that they face “imminent danger of significant crop loss” without them. In addition, the governor has asked state agencies to develop “pollinator-friendly” practices for maintaining state-owned properties, including parks, prisons, landfills and the State Capitol grounds.
The announcement was well received by beekeepers and some researchers.
GT