Charles,  have you not had the neonic planter dust issues that we have had in Ontario and Quebec?  Reed Johnson presented research at the Ontario Beekeepers Association spring meeting that showed elevated mortality due to neonics during planting in Ohio as well.

Are the bulk of mid-west colonies out of the region during corn planting?


No and no,  most of the bees are here by then,  and we don't seem to have an issue with planter dust  Which is a bit curious in thought.  It may be a lot to do with soil types and the fact its usually "moist or wet" while we plant.  I would also add that it may be that it never gets reported as its just a rare event here.  I have no doubt they actually had an issue,  and that its possible,  but it doesn't appear to be a problem here for whatever reason.

Charles

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