Beekeepers's Bee-Aware:
Spraying season is at Hand!
The Delaware Department of Natural Resources (DNREC), Fish and Wildlife Division, Mosquito Control Section annually conducts a spray program in order to reduce and control mosquito populations. Some of the pesticides used to control mosquito populations are toxic to honey bees. It is important that beekeepers stay informed of the materials used and of the time, location and methods of Mosquito Control‘s pesticide applications.
The "spray announcement" will reference the pesticide used by Mosquito Control.
Pesticide labels and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are available online. These two items will provide valuable information in regard to the toxicity of the chemicals being applied by Mosquito Control Section and will provide guidance to the beekeeper in their management choices.
It is the responsibility of the individual beekeeper to prevent accidental pesticide damage to their colonies.
Beekeepers with internet access may receive timely updates via e-mail notification by requesting to be placed on Mosquito Control‘s notification list. Additionally, they may request a "No Spray" area application online at the same website location, http://www.fw.delaware.gov/Services/Pages/MosquitoSection.aspx
In the event you do not have internet access, please contact your regional Mosquito Control office at the following numbers: Dover Office of Mosquito Control (302) 739-9917; New Castle County (302) 836-2555; Kent and Sussex Counties (302) 422-1512.