Petition to Governor Pillen

Senator Deb Fischer, Senator Pete Ricketts

Congressmen Flood, Bacon and Smith

Nebraska Department of Energy & Environment

Nebraska Department of Natural Resources

the Nebraska Natural Resource Districts

A Petition to Revoke the Exemption for Neonicotinoid Treated Seeds and for Regulation of Systemic Pesticide Use in Nebraska

Introduction

We, the undersigned, hereby submit this petition to urgently request the revocation of the exemption for neonicotinoid use as a seed treatment and to call for improved regulation these chemicals. Neonicotinoids, as a class of insecticides, have raised significant concerns due to their systemic nature and water solubility which magnify their effects on the environment. Seed treatment results in absorption of these chemicals into all plant parts including pollen and fruit where the impact on pollinator species as bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects have proved to be devastating. Neonicotinoids move rapidly through the soil with rain water posing threats to surface waters and ground water. Exposure to neonicotinoids has been linked to endocrine disruption, reproductive disorders, birth defects of the heart and brain, learning disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder and nervous system damage in human populations.

Background

Neonicotinoids were initially introduced as a safer alternative to older pesticides but extensive research has demonstrated this to be false. Because seed treatment with neonicotinoids has been exempted from federal regulations for pesticides by the EPA, these harmful substances can be applied without proper oversight, exacerbating the environmental impact and introducing these chemicals into water and our food chain. It is estimated that 60 to 70% of all neonicotinoid use is in the form of treated seeds, even though published research has shown no or limited benefit in yields for commodity crops such as corn and soybeans.

Effects on Pollinators

This year, the U.S. is facing the biggest loss of honeybee colonies in U.S. history. Pollinators are essential for the reproduction of many plant species and the production of a significant portion of our food supply. Neonicotinoid exposure is causing a decline in bee populations, which risks reduced crop pollination, food insecurity, and agricultural sustainability. Research studies have shown that neonicotinoid exposure can cause disorientation, impaired foraging, and reduced reproductive success in bees resulting in lethal consequences.

Environmental Effects

Beyond pollinators, neonicotinoids have been found to contaminate soil and water systems, negatively affecting aquatic life and other terrestrial organisms. This contamination leads to a cascading effect on ecosystems, disrupting entire food webs and the health of numerous species. Exposure to dust and drift from seeds during planting poses an unacceptable risk to farmers and to proximate human populations.

Request for Action

Given the overwhelming evidence of the harmful effects of neonicotinoids, we earnestly request the State of Nebraska to:

• Revoke the exemption for treated seeds at the State level and encourage EPA to do likewise

• Establish State regulation of neonicotinoids to ensure that these chemicals are subject to rigorous oversight, especially in the production of food crops

• Monitor for neonicotinoids in surface and groundwater through DNR and NRD

• Implement guidelines for application in rural and urban areas

• Promote alternative pest management practices through research and extension

• Provide incentives for the use of integrated pest management strategies that reduce reliance on chemical pesticides and prioritize ecological balance

Conclusion

The protection of our environment and the health of our ecosystems depend on responsible pesticide regulation. By repealing the exemption for neonicotinoids and regulating their application, Nebraska can take a significant step towards safeguarding pollinators, preserving biodiversity, ensuring a sustainable future for agriculture and natural habitats while protecting our drinking water and food from contamination with toxic pesticides.

 

We, the undersigned, request the Governor to revoke the exemption for neonicotinoid treated seeds and regulate systemic pesticide use in Nebraska.