Pest Management Practices
- Follow label information directing the application of pesticide when the plant may be in bloom and follow all BMPs to avoid impacting pollinators.
- Inform nearby beekeepers in advance of applying pesticides so they have the option of moving their hives.
- Use drift reduction methods to stay on target by using the latest spray technologies, such as drift-reduction nozzles to prevent off-site translocation of pesticide, use backpack sprayers when possible, and monitor wind to reduce drift.
- Do not apply pesticides when pollinators are active. (Spray at night or in early morning/late evening and when air is calm.)
- Before applying a pesticide, scout the area for both harmful and beneficial insect populations, and use pesticides only when populations present exceed a damage threshold.
- If flowering weeds are prevalent, mow or remove them before applying pesticides.
- Use pesticides that have a lower impact on pollinators.
- Avoid applications during unusually low temperatures or when dew is present or forecast.
- When possible, use spray or granular formulations of pesticides that are known to be less hazardous to bees (e.g., wettable powders).
- Reduce planting dust from treated seeds: Use wax treated seeds, use deflectors on machinery, and be aware of dry/windy conditions.
- Follow irrigation instructions carefully to ensure pesticides are washed from foliage into soil. In addition, non-ionic surfactant can help reduce the potential for drift.
- Consider the use of biologicals (e.g., entomopathogens) and bio-based lures, baits, and pheromones as alternatives to insecticides for pest management.
Preserving and Enhancing Habitat
- Utilize native species when renovating out-of-play areas.
- Choose flowers of different shapes, sizes, and colors.
- Choose species that bloom at different times of the year.
- Include both perennials and annuals in native plant areas.
- Choose south-facing sites whenever possible for establishing native areas.
- Leave stems and coarse, woody debris in native areas for pollinator nesting.
- Leave exposed patches of well-drained soil in native areas for pollinator nesting.
