There’s a new
research paper, published late last week, that says neonictinoid insecticides
are not the only reason why bee colonies are dying.
In fact, bees were
in decline before farmers began using neonictinoids as seed treatments.
The paper was
published by a group of international scientists, including a University of
Guelph professor Nigel Raine. They say we need an evidence-based debate on the
role of neonictinoids.
Raine was recently
chosen to take the Rebanks Family Chair in Pollinator Conservation at the
University of Guelph.
The team of
scientists says the causes of global bee decline are likely the result of
multiple factors, including habitat, parasites and diseases, weather
conditions, agriculture intensification and the use of pesticides.
They argue that
while pesticide exposure may be a factor, other sources such as bee diseases
could be equally important.
They believe that
banning or restricting use of neonics would likely not reverse bee colony
decline, noting that pollinator numbers were falling before these insecticides
were introduced in the 1990s.
A ban could, in
fact, discourage farmers from growing certain crops that pollinators need to
thrive, they say.
Of course, Terry Daynard, who farms near Guelph, said the same things months ago. Bee keepers and urban activists who enjoy pillaring modern farming methods didn't like his message.
