Movement of Soil-Applied Imidacloprid and Thiamethoxam

Neonicotinoids are a group of systemic insecticides that have come under recent scrutiny because of the threats they pose to bees. Dr. Kim Stoner and Dr. Brian Eitzer studied the levels of two specific neonicotinoids in squash plants after being applied directly to the soil. They used imidacloprid—which accounts for 26% of the global insecticide […]

The Insecticide and Miticide Mode of Action Field Guide

A resource to assist in managing arthropod pests of turfgrass and ornamental plants. Most insecticides affect one of the five essential biological processes or systems in arthropods: 1) the nervous system; 2) metabolic energy production; 3) growth; 4) physiological or structural function (including feeding and water balance); and 5) targeting midgut membrane integrity. Pesticide resistance […]

Protecting Bees from Pesticides, by Dr. Kim Stoner

Overview Stoner’s article is a must read for anyone using pesticides at home—especially neonicotinoids. The article dives into the best practices associated with pesticide use in order to protect the bees. Pesticides often pose a threat to other organisms in the area of application, therefore by only using pesticides when absolutely necessary, applying them properly, […]

Best Management Practices for Farmers Using Seeds Treated With Neonicotinoid Insecticides

Overview Neonicotinoids are a group of insecticides that commonly use in seed treatments for many crops includes soybean, cotton, canola, wheat, sunflower, potato, and many vegetables. Neonicotinoids can travel from the seed into the plant which control plant feeding insects both seeds and plants. Residues in nectar, pollen, and plant guttation could affect honey bees and native […]

Bees on Alternative Flowering Plants on Vegetable Farms in Connecticut

Dr. Kimberly Stoners article measured bee attractiveness of alternative flowering plants on vegetable farms. Stoners research has shown that vegetable crops are visited more frequently by wild bees than by honey bees.  The results uncovered that 98 different bee species visited 10 farms over two different growing seasons. Many of the bees collected were found on non-vegetable plants such as cover crops and wildflowers that benefit from bee pollination.

A Citizen’s Guide to Creating Pollinator Habitat in Connecticut

Overview This guide is for those who want to create a pollinator habitat in Connecticut. Dr. Stoner divided the users to four different groups: Beekeeper : supporting the health and productivity of your honey bees. Farmer or orchardist : supporting pollinators of crops to increase productivity. Manager of a large land area (conservation) : to […]