A stinging issue: bee pollinator health

There has been much discussion recently regarding bee pollinator health and the role pesticides play in controlling stinging insects. Pollinators play a vital role in the nation’s food supply chain, moving pollen from the male anthers of a flower to the female stigma of a flower to fertilize the plant.

Fertilization must occur in order for plants to produce the fruit and seeds that drive healthy crop production. The agriculture industry depends on bees, flies, moths and other insects and animals to help pollinate crops.

On the other hand, stinging insects do pose a threat to humans. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation, two million people in the U.S. are at risk of experiencing a life-threatening allergic reaction to an insect sting. More than a half a million individuals go to an emergency room annually as a result of being stung.

The pesticide products the Sprague Pest Experts apply to eliminate stinging insects at commercial facilities are reviewed and registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Food industry professionals should feel confident that the application of such products by highly-trained and licensed Sprague service technicians will be done expertly with no impact on bee health.

You might be surprised to discover which flowering plant crops are aided in seed production by managed beehives and pollination. The list looks like the produce section of your local farmers’ market: 

  • Apples
  • Almonds
  • Broccoli
  • Carrots
  • Clover
  • Cucumbers
  • Melons
  • Pears
  • Sunflowers
  • Strawberries
Categories:
Stinging Insects: Bees, Hornets & Mosquitos