Scottish Beekeepers Association
The member organisation representing Scottish beekeepers nationally and internationally
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Scottish Beekeepers Association
Chemical Poisoning and Spray Liaison
A wide variety of chemicals used to treat plants and plant crops (both in gardens and in commercial agriculture) have the potential to be harmful to bees.
There is much which can be done to improve the level of cooperation between beekeepers and the agricultural industry to lessen the potential danger of bees being poisoned.
Much of the responsibility lies with individual beekeepers, to ensure that local farmers and growers that might use agricultural chemicals during the course of their work, are aware of the nearby presence of beehives.
Farmers, growers and their contractors can be asked to liaise with neighbouring beekeepers to alert them to when spraying is to take place. They can provide sufficient notice to allow beekeepers to take some precautionary measures. They can also make sure that they follow the relevant Codes of Practice, and use chemicals and application methods which minimise the risk to honeybees.
The Scottish Beekeepers Association Markets Convener has responsibility for:
- to encourage the setting up of local Spray Liaison Schemes, and to provide a channel for contact with the Local Spray Liaison Officers;
- to provide technical backup and advice to Local Spray Liaison Officers and to members generally; and
- to maintain contact with SEERAD and other official bodies as necessary.
In the event of suspected chemical poisoning of bees, do not hesitate. Contact your Local Association or the Markets and Spray Liaison Convener at once:
- Leslie M Webster, Birchlea, Rothiemay, Huntly, AB54 7LN, Tel. 01466 771351, leswebster'at'microgram.co.uk
You can also find more advice on dealing with chemical poisoning in Chapter 9 of the local Association Secretaries manual. Use the link on the right.