Update on neonicotinoid pesticides and bee health : Mise à jour sur les pesticides de la classe des néonicotinoïdes et sur la santé des abeilles

In 2012, 2013 and 2014, reported incidents related to planting of treated corn and soybean seed were limited to intense corn-growing regions of southern Ontario, with fewer incidents in corn growing regions of Quebec and Manitoba (see Appendix I, Figures 1 and 2). [...] As well, the cold spring meant that there were differences in bee foraging activity and available forage relative to timing of corn planting A thorough investigation of the 2014 incidents is ongoing and a large number of samples are being analysed for the presence of pesticides and bee viruses. [...] In order to address some of these outstanding questions, Health Canada’s PMRA is reviewing the emerging body of scientific and monitoring data to assess whether risks to pollinators from neonicotinoids at the levels anticipated to be present in the Canadian environment continue to be acceptable. [...] Health Canada’s PMRA is conducting a re-evaluation of the value of neonicotinoids and the potential for effects on pollinators from all agricultural uses of these pesticides, in collaboration with the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (CDPR). [...] Value Assessment of Neonicotinoid Corn and Soybean Seed Treatments As part of the re-evaluation of the neonicotinoid pesticides, the PMRA is conducting a value assessment of the use of neonicotinoids when used to treat corn and soybean seed.