Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1099801
15 In cases of suspected honey bee pesticide-related incidents the area surrounding affected hives will be inspected. WHAT TO EXPECT IN AN INVESTIGATION States have primacy in enforcing labels and investigating suspected pesticide-related incidents, including those associated with adverse effects on honey bees. In California, suspected honey bee pesticide-related incidents are investigated by the local county agricultural commissioner, aided at times by California DPR. AN INVESTIGATION WILL INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: County agricultural commissioners will gather pesticide use information to determine which pesticides were used in the vicinity where the hives were placed. The surrounding area will be surveyed to consider how pesticides may have been applied to blooming crops, orchards or weeds where the bees may have been foraging. The beekeeper will be asked about any pesticide treatments made to the hives to protect against various hive pests. Samples from the bees and from the surfaces of the identified hives may be collected for analysis of pesticide residues. If specific pesticides are suspect, the analysis may be limited to those compounds; however, if specific products are not identified, then the samples may be subject to a broad spectrum (multi-residue) analysis. If a beekeeper expresses concern that their bees may have been affected by pesticides, a report needs to be submitted by the beekeeper, grower or other involved parties listed on the Honey Bee BMP Communication Chain (on Page 5) to the county agricultural commissioner's office. Accurate information and real data can only be obtained if suspected bee incidences are properly investigated, as without an investigation it becomes a matter of opinion and supposition. These reports should be submitted as soon as possible after an incident occurs to help ensure the details are documented as accurately as possible.