In a message dated 98-04-09 20:24:30 EDT, [log in to unmask] (CSlade777)
writes:
 
<< The problem is alleged to be caused by an insecticide produced by Bayer and
 applied to protect sunflowers from parasites. The chemical, Gaucho, is based
 on imidaclopride which acts on the nervous system of a wide variety of pests
 including wireworms and aphids.  The signs are that bees become disorientated
 and fail to return to the hive after gathering nectar and pollen from
 sunflowers.  The problem has occurred in west and central France.
 Apologies to North American readers for the strongly European flavour of this
 post. >>
 
 
    No apologies needed here.....   We are vitally interested in any pesticide
that may also come into useage here.
 
    Question: In US law, pesticides that are toxic to bees have specific label
instructions that prohibit use under the conditions where bees may be
affected. While this law is only enforced when beekeepers know the law and
insist on enforcement, it can be used to stop such destruction and bring
penalties to the misusers.
 
   Do you not have comparable label instructions? I would expect this to be
true. Can any one supply a copy of the label to see if there are instructions
pertaining to bees?
 
[log in to unmask]     Dave Green  Hemingway, SC  USA
The Pollination Scene:  http://users.aol.com/pollinator/polpage1.html
 
Jan's Sweetness and Light Shop    (Varietal Honeys and Beeswax Candles)
http://users.aol.com/SweetnessL/sweetlit.htm