How to report a suspected pesticide-related bee kill
The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) Pesticides Program, responds to all reports of bee kills or die-offs alleged to be related to pesticides.
Pesticide investigators may
- Collect physical evidence (such as dead bees or treated vegetation)
- Collect and review pesticide application records
- Interview beekeepers and pesticide applicators
ODA often works with Oregon State University (OSU) and beekeepers to identify whether bee kills or die-offs are related to pesticides, or the result of poor nutrition, parasites, disease, or other factors. In certain instances, dead bees collected by ODA investigators are analyzed by the ODA laboratory for pesticide residues. Unless directed by ODA Pesticide Enforcement staff, do not handle or collect dead bees prior to their arrival. Due to sampling protocols and chain of custody processes, ODA may not use lab analysis of bees collected by community members as a basis for an enforcement action. If you encounter a bee death during the evening or over the weekend, ODA asks that you take photos and document as much detail about the situation as you can.
During the investigation, ODA uses standard investigative protocol as well as US EPA Guidance on responding to bee-related incidents. The investigative findings are provided to the US EPA on a quarterly basis. The Pesticides Program has
created a brochure that details the investigation and enforcement process.
When to contact ODA
Alleged pesticide-related incidents must be reported in a timely manner. This is because pesticide residues break down over time, bee carcasses degrade, crops are harvested, memories fade, or pesticide application information may no longer be available.
How to contact ODA
Individuals may file a complaint via
You also can call 211 to report a bee-related incident 24 hours a day. Information provided will be directed to the Pesticides Program for follow up.
The Oregon Bee Project
A home for bee friendly resources and tools, as well the Oregon Bee Atlas, and information about flagship farms, and Oregon Innovators.
Pesticide advisories about pollinators
6/1/21
6/13/19
Oregon law and the use of pesticides on linden trees
ORS 603-057-0388 prohibits the application of any product containing dinotefuran, imidacloprid, thiamethoxam, or clothianidin, regardless of application method, to linden trees, basswood trees or other Tilia species. Failure to comply may result in the revocation, suspension or refusal to issue or renew the license or certification of an applicant, licensee or certificate holder; or a civil penalty.
Brochures
Videos
Resources