DEC announced plans to reclassify certain neonicotinoid (neonic) pesticide products as “Restricted Use” effective January 1, 2023.

Every pesticide product used, distributed, sold, or offered for sale in New York must be registered by DEC. Mainly, pesticides are classified as either general or restricted use pesticides. Restricted use pesticides can only be used by a private or commercial certified applicator possessing NYS issued certification.

What are Neonicotinoid Pesticides or “Neonics”?

• Neurotoxic insecticides. Neonics affect the nerve cells of insects often causing paralysis and death of the insect.
• Systemic insecticides. Neonics are transported by water and absorbed throughout all parts of the plant including roots, foliage and flowers.

Why are Neonics harmful to pollinators?

• Honeybees, butterflies, beetles, birds, and other pollinators are attracted to fruit and flowers. Pollen and nectar are major sources of food for these creatures. Plants and seeds treated with neonicotinoid pesticides have the ability to transport the insecticide to the fruiting and flowering parts of the plant. Insect species come in contact with neonics during foraging and feeding activities.

New York is committed to protecting pollinator populations.

Pollinators contribute to the sustainability of our environment and play an important role in the health of our economy in agricultural production. As such, DEC and NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets have collaborated to publish the 2020 New York State Pollinator Protection Plan Update (PDF) as an educational resource base for the public.

Restricting Neonicotinoid Pesticide Products

Pesticide products containing imidacloprid, acetamiprid, and thiamethoxam that are labeled for foliar, outdoor use, and/or seed treatment will be reclassified as “restricted use” pesticides in NYS. This reclassification will ensure proper use by trained, licensed applicators and also require sales and use data of neonics to be annually reported to the DEC.

For more information on the January 2023 reclassification of neonic pesticides, visit DEC’s Bureau of Pesticides Management webpage.

Still buzzing around our webpage? Check out the New York State Pesticide Administration Database (NYSPAD), an all-inclusive directory where you can search for registered pesticide businesses, pesticide applicator certification, and pesticide product information.

Photo at top courtesy of the NYS DEC.