Hi all,

Often missing from discussions about neonics and pollinators is whether the current neonic usage patterns actually benefit growers.  As we all know (but often do not discuss), it is not simply a question of either using them with no restrictions or banning them completely - the best approach is to use them in a way that maximizes the benefit while minimizing the cost.

Here is a fact sheet (developed by extension agents and scientists at 12 land grant universities) describing why neonic seed treatments in soy are largely ineffective and can actually have negative effects on yield:
 http://ento.psu.edu/extension/field-crops/fact-sheet-Effectiveness-of-Neonicotinoid-Seed-Treatments-in-Soybean

Also, here is the news article about how neonic coatings of soy seeds lead to increased slug damage:
http://news.psu.edu/story/336981/2014/12/04/research/insecticides-foster-toxic-slugs-reduce-crop-yields

And yet use of seed treatments in soy and other field crops has increased dramatically in recent years (http://news.psu.edu/story/351027/2015/04/02/research/rapid-increase-neonicotinoid-insecticides-driven-seed-treatments)

Aside from questions of cost and yield, general IPM principles tell us that using any pesticide (or antibiotic) constantly, at low levels, and across large populations will lead to the selection and spread of resistant strains.  Many researchers worry that the current usage patterns will undermine our ability to use neonics in the long term.  This is very unfortunate, because in some production systems, neonics are necessary tools.  Thoughtful and targeted use of pesticides is beneficial from both a biodiversity and an agricultural standpoint.

Christina Grozinger
Penn State University
Center for Pollinator Research: http://ento.psu.edu/pollinators

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