New York farmers' group urges Hochul to reject pesticide ban

(The Center Square) — The state's farmers are urging New York Gov. Kathy Hochul to veto a bill that would ban the use of neonicotinoid pesticides on certain kinds of seeds.

The so-called Birds and the Bees Protection Act, which passed the Democratic-controlled state Legislature in June, would prohibit the sale of neonicotinoid-treated corn, soybean and wheat seeds by 2026. The commonly used insecticides are formulated to control agricultural pest infestations on various crops.

Democrats who approved the measure argue that the move will improve public health and the environment by removing a pesticide that some studies have linked to a reduction in bees and other pollinators.

But the New York Farm Bureau is making a last-ditch effort to convince Hochul to veto the legislation, citing concerns about its impact on the agricultural industry.

The group is asking farmers to sign a letter to the governor spelling out their concerns about the proposed ban on neonicotinoid pesticides.

"Neonicotinoid coated seeds are a crucial tool for farmers to protect their investment and crops against early disease and pest pressure," the letter reads. "In New York’s condensed growing season, the risk of crop failure due to pests and the cost of replant can drastically impact a farmer’s ability to stay in business."

The farmer's bureau also suggested the bill would be "counter" to New York's broader goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

"Removing these tools would impact the state’s carbon footprint, requiring additional tractor passthroughs or product to be applied," it said. "The increased tillage to fight subsurface pests and plant disease releases more carbon into the air, a step in the wrong direction for the soil health initiatives that farms are increasingly adopting."

Farmers also cited studies claiming that using neonics as seed treatments is effective and safe for humans and the environment. They also pointed out that they depend on pollinators for their crops and wouldn't use the products if they impacted bee colonies.

But supporters of the ban, such as the Natural Resources Defense Council, cite a 2020 state-funded Cornell University report which found that the routine use of neonicotinoid-treated seeds doesn't increase net income for New York field corn or soybean producers and creates risks for birds, bees and other pollinators.

They also cite studies suggesting a link between overuse of neonicotinoids and neurological issues and health risks for young children and pregnant women.

If the ban is approved, New York would join several other Northeast states, including Vermont, Connecticut, New Jersey and Rhode Island, that regulate the sale and use of neonicotinoids.

In Maine, a 2021 law signed by Gov. Janet Mills prohibits the use of four neonicotinoids in lawn care, turf and other residential pest control applications but allows them in agricultural crops or other uses, such as treating wood, pet care or controlling indoor insects.