UMass Extension Landscape Message June 28, 2013

"News of the week: Last week in Oregon, a commercial application of SafariTM insecticide (active ingredient: dinotefuran) was apparently applied to 55 linden trees that were in bloom in order to control an aphid problem. The application type has yet to be learned. The day after application, approximately 25,000 native bumble bees were found dead on the ground under the treated trees. It has not yet been determined if the application of this insecticide is the culprit but it is strongly suspected. The label for this product clearly states: This product is highly toxic to bees exposed to direct treatment or residues on blooming crops or weeds. Do not apply this product or allow it to drift to blooming crops or weeds if bees are visiting the treatment area. Dinotefuran is one of the Neonicotinoid pesticides (as is imidacloprid) and this chemical group is known for its potential toxicity to bees. The investigation into this particular bee-kill is still under investigation but the take-home lesson here is that the pesticide label should always be thoroughly read and understood before application."

Claire