By Scout Nelson
FieldCheck is a valuable online tool designed to help pesticide applicators protect nearby crops and beehives from pesticide drift. Created by FieldWatch Inc., this free, voluntary program allows users to view sensitive sites before applying pesticides. It helps prevent damage by encouraging careful planning and better communication.
Before applying any pesticide, users are urged to scout the surrounding area and review the FieldWatch map. This map shows the borders of nearby fields and the locations of registered beehives. By selecting a pin, applicators can view details such as whether a crop is conventionally grown, certified organic, or “organically grown.”
“Insecticide drift to beehives and flowering plants that are attractive to foraging bees can harm honeybees.”
To protect bees, applicators should notify beekeepers 48 hours in advance of spraying bee–toxic products, especially if hives are within 2–3 miles of the field. While Minnesota does not require this notification, it is a good safety practice. Beekeepers can take steps like moving or covering hives. Applicators should also spray early in the morning or late in the evening when bees are less active and avoid blooming plants.
Although FieldWatch offers a public map, applicators should register with FieldCheck for additional benefits. Registered users can see all enrolled beehives, even those hidden from the public map for security reasons. They can also draw their area of operation and receive email alerts when new sensitive sites appear nearby. Users may add private site notes for personal reference.
FieldCheck promotes safer pesticide application, helping reduce environmental damage and protect valuable crops and pollinators. It is a simple yet powerful way to improve communication and pesticide stewardship in agriculture.
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Categories: Minnesota, General