Bob wrote: "While 'PMRA' are unlikely to ban these pesticides in Ontario, Quebec and Manitoba in time for the 2014 planting season, some farmers, including one of my cousins, have ordered untreated corn seeds to be planted next spring. Hopefully, researchers will approach these farmers to test soils and surface water for residues before spring planting and at 2014 season end." At the BBKA South West Region Joint Consultative Committee meeting yesterday, I was told that the UK pesticide ban was delayed until December, because of the lack of availability of untreated seeds. One additional factor I suggest researchers test is the earthworm count in soils that have been planted with treated seeds as compared with soil that has not been contaminated. To a large extent, topsoil has been created by earthworms and suchlike and it could be that farmers, by using some types of pesticide are biting the hands that feed them. I have just been reading of the large decline in the hedgehog population of the UK. Earthworms form a large part of their diet. Chris *********************************************** The BEE-L mailing list is powered by L-Soft's renowned LISTSERV(R) list management software. For more information, go to: http://www.lsoft.com/LISTSERV-powered.html