Media contacts:
Emily May, Pollinator Conservation Biologist, Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation; 240-645-6605; [email protected]
Andrew Munkres, Lemon Fair Honeyworks and Vermont Beekeepers Association, [email protected]
MONTPELIER, Vt.; June 18, 2024 --- Vermont has achieved a significant milestone in environmental conservation with the successful enactment of bill H.706 into law on the first day of National Pollinator Week. This new legislation is aimed at protecting bees, other wildlife, and water quality from widespread contamination from neonicotinoid insecticides. The bill phases out the use of neonicotinoid treated seeds on field crops by 2029 and places restrictions on some additional outdoor uses of neonicotinoids, mirroring similar legislation passed in New York state last year.
The legislature moved to override Governor Scott’s veto of H.706 with strong support in both chambers, underscoring Vermont's proactive stance in addressing environmental challenges and fostering more sustainable agricultural practices.
"This bill is a major step forward in protecting our state’s pollinators and the health of our streams and rivers,” said Emily May, Pollinator Conservation Biologist at the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation. “We’re grateful that Vermont legislators followed the science to protect wildlife from pesticides and ensure a just transition for farmers.”
This new law will eliminate excessive uses of neonicotinoid pesticides. Neonics applied as seed coatings on crop seeds represent the single greatest source of reported insecticide use in the entire state with use occuring on nearly 100,000 acres in Vermont. These usage rates are high because treated seeds are used as an “insurance policy” or “just in case” a seed pest is present. However, extensive research finds that corn, soybean, and other seed coatings rarely provide economic benefits to farmers.
To provide assurance to farmers who may be wary of the change, the bill includes an emergency exemption process implemented through the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets to grant exemptions in cases of insufficient neonicotinoid-free seed supply, financial hardship or other verification of need by farmers.
“Vermont-based commercial beekeepers feel relief today, and gratitude for all the Vermonters who supported this legislation,” said Andrew Munkres, owner of Lemon Fair Honeyworks and former president of the Vermont Beekeepers Association. “In 2017, beekeepers on Vermont’s Pollinator Protection Committee recommended phasing out the use of neonics. Seven years later, it has finally come to pass.”
Munkres went on to say that beekeepers “finally see light at the end of the tunnel. We might be able to pass viable beekeeping businesses on to the next generation.”
Public support for this bill in the state reflected widespread recognition of the critical role pollinators play in agricultural and natural ecosystems. A recent statewide survey conducted by the Vermont Public Interest Research Group revealed overwhelming agreement among Vermonters regarding the importance of pollinators and the need for pesticide regulation.
The new regulations will make a lasting impact on conservation of pollinators and other wildlife in the state.
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About the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation
The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation is a donor-supported nonprofit organization that protects our world through the conservation of invertebrates and their habitats. Xerces works throughout North America to conserve pollinators and other invertebrates, protect endangered species, and reduce pesticide use and impacts. Our staff use applied research, policy advocacy, public education and on-the-ground habitat improvement to advance meaningful, long-term conservation. Xerces is the largest invertebrate conservation organization in the world. For over 50 years, we have been champions of Earth’s most biodiverse and overlooked animals, protecting the life that sustains us. Learn more at xerces.org.