U.S. Canola Association

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Growers, Be Sure to Protect Pollinators

In honor of World Bee Day on May 20, now is the perfect time for canola growers to BeSure! they are doing everything to protect pollinators. Here are a few tips from the BeSure! campaign by the Growing Matters coalition:

For Growers:

  1. Follow directions on the label for appropriate storage, use and disposal practices.
  2. When planting treated seed, use advanced seed flow lubricants that minimize dust.
  3. When planting treated seed, eliminate flowering plants and weeds in and around the field prior to planting. For foliar applications, ensure that sprays are directed away from any flowering plants, follow established buffer zones and calibrate equipment to minimize spray drift.
  4. Before making an application, be aware of any honey bees and hives near the field and communicate with neighboring beekeepers prior to treatment.
  5. Remove and properly dispose of all treated seed. Keep all treated seed out of commodity grain channels.

For Applicators:

  1. Comply with all regulations when using registered pesticide products and ensure proper employee training prior to application.
  2. Apply best stewardship practices when using treated seed, soil drenches or foliar sprays to minimize dust or spray drift. Establish written protocols using best practices to ensure high-quality seed treatment, foliar or field application.
  3. Adopt stewardship documentation for the full life cycle of seed treatment products.
  4. Properly discard any unused product, rinse water or seed treatment by following the label disposal instructions to minimize any potential environmental impact.
  5. Ensure that all required and pertinent neonicotinoid treatment information, consistent with the product label, is conveyed to customers.

Additional resources are at:

The BeSure! campaign is powered by the Growing Matters coalition (Bayer Crop Science  Syngenta, Valent U.S.A., Mitsui Chemicals Agro Inc. and BASF) in conjunction with the American Seed Trade Association, National Pesticide Safety Education Center, National Corn Growers Association, American Soybean Association, CropLife America and Agricultural Retailers Association.