The pollinator health issue is complex as pollinators have been shown to be sensitive to a variety of factors in their environment, and more importantly to the cumulative impact of these factors. While the impacts of pesticides are one factor, there are many others factors, particularly in Ontario. These include losses of pollinator habitat and food sources due to factors such as increased land used by urbanization, climate change, changes in beekeeping practices (custom pollination for example), and diseases and pests like the Varroa destructor. Changes in the mix of agricultural crops have had a tremendous influence on the habitat available for pollinators. In 1978, hay and pasture lands represented 35 per cent of Ontario’s farmland. By 2011, hay and pasture represented just three per cent of Ontario’s farmlands and more intensive management of hay and pasture lands (such as cutting clover before it flowers) has removed a once-abundant seasonal food supply for pollinators. If we hope to truly improve pollinator health in the province, we must look at the big picture and take into account the relative impacts of each factor that could contribute negatively or positively to improving pollinator health. Farmers are committed to finding workable, practical solutions to limit exposure of bees and other non-targeted insects to pesticides and encouraging a healthy pollinator population.
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Source: Farmfoodcare