The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is seeking public comment on draft water quality best management practices for agricultural use of two neonicotinoid insecticides, clothianidin and imidacloprid.

The BMPs were developed by the MDA in consultation with the University of Minnesota Extension and others, after the commissioner of the MDA designated the neonicotinoid insecticides clothianidin and imidacloprid as “surface water pesticides of concern.” The BMPs detail the best approaches and applications to consider when using clothianidin and imidacloprid to protect surface waters.

The BMPs address how to minimize dust and drift from treated seed, and preventing drift from spray applications. BMPs suggestions include filling the planter at least 10 yards inside the field to be planted, reconfiguring planters so only clean air enters seed metering devices, using nozzles that produce medium or coarse droplet sizes, and maintaining at least a 25-foot spray buffer zone between the application area and surface water, and a 150-foot spray buffer zone for aerial applications.

The draft also provides listings of preferred BMPs regarding pesticide spills and disposal of treated seed. An incident response plan is recommended in anticipation of potential spills. Unused treated seed could be disposed of by planting it on fallow ground or an unused parcel of land, according to label directions.

Learn more about clothianidin and imidacloprid draft BMPs on the MDA website.

Notice for public comment was published on Nov. 21 and can be viewed at Minnesota State Register website.

The MDA will accept comments through Jan. 19.

Following the 60-day comment period, the MDA will consider revisions to the BMPs based on comments received. A notice announcing the availability of the final BMPs will be published in the State Register.

Comments can be submitted by email at [email protected] or by letter to: Theresa Cira, Pesticide and Fertilizer Management Division, Minnesota Department of Agriculture, 625 Robert St. North, Saint Paul, MN, 55155; Phone: 651-201-6237.

Source: MDA