New York State has recently passed the "Birds and Bees" Act, which aims to protect pollinators, as well as residents and wildlife, by banning the use of neonics on seeds, turf, and outdoor plants. This insecticide has been linked to significant declines in bee and pollinator populations, resulting in decreased crop production. The signing of S.1856-A/A.7640 into law by Governor Hochul on December 21 is a major step towards safeguarding the environment and promoting the recovery of pollinator populations.
New York's commitment to the health and well-being of pollinators is evident in its Pollinator Protection Plan. These vital creatures play a crucial role in New York's environment and economy. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, pollinators contribute approximately $344 million worth of pollination services to New York and add $29 billion in value to crop production nationally each year. The cultivation of crops like apples, grapes, cherries, onions, pumpkins, and cauliflower heavily relies on the presence of pollinators.
State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal said, “The EPA recently found that neonicotinoid pesticides are driving more than 200 species towards extinction, marking them as the most ecologically destructive pesticides since DDT. I’m extremely thankful to the coalition of advocacy groups that helped get our bill across the finish line."
The Pollinator Stewardship Council has closely monitored this legislation and actively participated in supporting it by submitting comment letters. Stephen Wilson, a beekeeper and board member of the council, played a significant role in promoting this legislation within the state of New York.
By banning the use of neonicotinoid pesticides, New York is taking a crucial step towards safeguarding its agricultural economy while demonstrating how government actions can preserve the environment and biodiversity.