Recent research has suggested that neonicotinoid pesticides (“neonics”), even when present at very low concentrations, can be toxic to various life stages of honey bees, native bees, and other pollinators. Pollinators are important in maintaining biodiversity and ecological balance by pollinating dozens of commercial crops, providing important food for other wildlife, and providing habitat for many species.
The Minnesota House of Representatives took a vote on an amendment that would have forbidden the use of neonic insecticides on state Wildlife Management Areas. Even though recent research indicates some neonics can be exceptionally toxic to pollinators, state land managers are not currently forbidden from using this pesticide on state Wildlife Management Areas.
The House did not pass this amendment with 60 “Yes” votes and 65 “No” votes.
If you would like to let your representative know what you think of this vote, you can send them a quick note by clicking HERE.
What Would Happen?
A “Yes” vote would keep neonic pesticides that harm pollinators off state Wildlife Management Areas.
A “No” vote would allow the continued use of neonic pesticides on state Wildlife Management Areas.
How The House Voted
A “No” vote would allow the continued use of neonic pesticides on state Wildlife Management Areas.
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