Oregon State University researchers say there have been no pesticide-related bee deaths in Oregon since 2020.
Recent data shows that insecticide poisoning of bees has decreased significantly over the past decade. Researchers attribute much of that progress to educational efforts aimed at helping pesticide applicators manage pests while reducing risks to pollinators.
Since the Oregon Pollinator Health Task Force was established in 2013, Oregon State University has trained approximately 13,000 licensed pesticide applicators. Researchers said the program focuses on helping experts identify the conditions that pose the greatest risk to bees and adjust their practices accordingly.
Recent data reveals a significant downward trend in bee pesticide poisoning across Oregon over the past decade. Since the state’s Pollinator Health Task Force was established in 2013, Oregon State University (OSU) has led an extensive education effort and trained approximately 13,000 licensed pesticide applicators.
Andony Melasopoulos, an Oregon State University associate professor who specializes in pollinator health, said the training will help applicators balance pest management needs and pollinator protection.
Although pesticide-related bee deaths are decreasing, bees continue to face other threats such as Varroa mites, viruses, and malnutrition.
Ramesh Sagiri, director of the Oregon State University Honey Bee Research Institute, said maintaining healthy colonies is important to support Oregon’s beekeeping and pollination industry, which contributes more than $500 million annually to the state’s economy.
“We need these strong, durable colonies to meet our pollination needs, and of course, it’s food for the beekeeper, so we want them to thrive as well,” Sagiri said.
Commercial hive losses in Oregon are currently about 25%, compared to the national average of 35%.
Honey bees at the Oregon State Honey Bee Research Institute
Beyond honey bees, Oregon State University researchers track the state’s wild honey bee population through the Oregon Bee Atlas.
Researchers have identified more than 560 species so far, and believe the number could eventually reach 900. The project, supported by the nation’s largest Master Meritologist program, aims to map where wild honey bee species occur throughout Oregon so researchers can monitor and protect their populations.
Residents can support pollinators by planting native species and participating in programs such as Bee Steward through Oregon State University Extension Service.
