An EPA study shows neonicotinoid seed treatments for insect control in soybeans are largely ineffective and have no economic benefit. The analysis concluded there is little or no increase in soybean yields using these seed treatments verses no pest control at all. Minnesota Farm Bureau Director of Public Policy Doug Busselman says however, this was a narrow study that targeted aphids and the timing of this insecticide doesn’t match their normal infestation period.
Busselman says EPA reviewed this class of seed treatments with particular emphasis on their impact on pollinators. And from that standpoint the study was actually positive.
The study also concluded a foliar application of neonicotinoids later in the season was effective in insect control.
A Federal Register notice inviting the public to comment on the analysis will be published in the near future.