Regardless of the plant breeding method, products used to improve modern farming that could potentially harm bees could be used in organic or non-GMO — it just isn’t that black and white. So it is irrelevant to blame GMOs when it really doesn’t matter. Farm chemicals have been used in agriculture for over 4,000 years, but technology has made them better and safer over time.
While certain agrochemicals could potentially harm bees, it’s important to note the risk is small by comparison. In the grand scheme of things, their biggest threats are habitat loss, overpopulation of hives, insect infestation and natural predators, harsh winters, weather patterns, and varroa mites, to name a few. Humans, in general, can be guilty of killing bees for fear they may get stung; however, honeybees are quite docile compared to other species.
To the general public, it’s important to explain that farmers and professional ag pilots must hold registrations, certifications, licenses, go through ongoing training and renewals, and so much else to apply crop protection products. What is our industry doing to protect them? They can’t just go out and spray willy-nilly!
If you ever hear that agriculture doesn’t care about bees, don’t be “stung” by the myths.
