What should be considered when applying pesticides in areas with high bee activity?

• A. Apply during times when bees are actively foraging to reduce pest populations.
• B. Avoid application during flowering or when bees are foraging; select products with lower bee toxicity and follow label directions
• C. Use products with the highest bee toxicity to ensure effectiveness
• D. No PPE is required

Answer: (B)

Protecting pollinators is the priority when pesticides are needed near areas with active bees. The key approach is to avoid spraying during flowering or when bees are actively foraging, and to use products that are lower in bee toxicity while strictly following the label directions. Bees gather nectar and pollen from flowers, so applying pesticides while flowers are in bloom or while bees are foraging can expose them to harmful residues in nectar and pollen and can harm or kill colonies. Choosing products labeled as having lower toxicity to bees reduces risk to pollinators without sacrificing pest control effectiveness, and following the label ensures you’re using the product correctly—including any timing, application methods, reentry intervals, and required PPE. The other options either increase risk to bees or ignore safety requirements, so they aren’t appropriate.