As you’ve probably heard, bees are dying. In huge numbers. And everyone is worried about it.
Many odd theories were floated to explain just why the die-off was happening, with blame cast upon everything from cell phones to secret government conspiracies. But in recent years, scientists have settled on one major culprit: a certain category of pesticides known as neonicotinoids, which can be toxic for pollinators.
This spring, Maryland became the first state in the nation to ban the use of neonicotinoid pesticides in consumer gardens, lawns and landscaping, earning us kudos from environmental organizations calling Maryland “the most bee-friendly state in the U.S.” The law came after the state lost more than 60 percent of its bee population last year. Let’s hope the bill has a similar result as what happened in Italy, which saw hive lost cut by half after passing a similar law.
Great article! It is with hope that Governor Hogan signs this bill into law by this Friday, May 28th. His other option is to let it pass as law without his signature. I can’t even type his other option, the “v” word. Continuing to spray neonics is hurting bees, and all the plants (including our food) they pollinate.