This message was originally submitted by [log in to unmask] to the BEE-L list at LISTSERV.ALBANY.EDU. It was edited to remove extraneous signature attachments. ----------------- Original message (ID=EC41115C) (59 lines) ------------------- From: "Blocher, David" <[log in to unmask]> To: "[log in to unmask]" <[log in to unmask]> Subject: pesticides on corn/cucumber pollination fees Date: Tue, 19 Jun 2001 13:00:08 -0400 Hello all! I live in Connecticut, and felt lucky to find a five hundred acre farm in Fairfield County that has 130 acres in pasture. However, I have had growing apprehension during the past few weeks, as the farmer will be spraying pesticides on his corn multiple times this summer. He will be using Lanate, Larvin, and one called Warrior. One stand of hives is very near the corn, the other is about half a mile away. I know that all of these are highly toxic to bees, and wanted to know if it is still possible to keep bees on the property if the hives are located a certain distance from the corn, the issues being drift of the pesticide and spraying attractive nectar/pollen plants near the corn. Any experience with these pesticides, or similar situations? I am ready to move the hives if necessary, or close them up during spraying (how effective is merely closing them up?). I have never experienced loss to pesticides, and do not want to begin now. Also, can anybody give me an idea on fees for pollinating cucumbers and squash? I have a prospect with about 25 acres combined of both plants, and do not know what the going rate is here or anywhere else. Anything to watch out for? I believe the cucumbers will be hand-picked over many weeks. Thanks for all help, David Blocher Any direct responses please send to [log in to unmask] (I'm sending this from work, since email from home doesn't work at present--hope this message doesn't get bounced!)