Farmers and the Environment are Paying the Price
If you attend a conference about neonicotinoid insecticides (neonics), inevitably the conversation will turn to Rachel Carson’s book, Silent Spring, detailing the devastating effects of DDT. Why would a book published in 1962 be discussed in the context of modern day insecticides? Specifically, neonics weren’t introduced to the U.S. until more than 30 years later? Indeed, Carson’s warnings about the dangers of the pesticide DDT resonated strongly with Americans at that time. The chemical was banned. Yet, today, surely we have evolved as a society that no longer uses such toxic chemicals on our crops.
Shockingly, neonics are estimated to be 7,000 to 10,000 times more toxic to insects than DDT. They are linked to devastating effects on non-target insects, particularly pollinators like bees and butterflies. Yet, they are the most widely used insecticide in the U.S. This extreme toxicity and pervasive use has led to widespread contamination of the environment. Neonic exposure is causing harm to insects and other wildlife, degradation of aquatic ecosystems, and threats to human health.
The recent Wisconsin Neonic Forum, held on October 30, 2024, at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, sponsored by Clean Wisconsin, brought together a variety of experts. They discussed the widespread use of neonics and their far-reaching effects on agriculture and ecosystems. Panelists shed light on the unsettling reality that neonic seed treatments may be causing more harm than benefit, both to the environment and farmers’ wallets. Here are some highlights:
Widespread and Harmful
Mike Miller from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP) presented findings showing neonics in over 5% of drinking water wells in agricultural areas and in nearly 70% of irrigation wells. This data underscores neonics’ ability to spread far from where they are applied, persisting in water sources and ecosystems. When these chemicals enter water systems, they do not just stay put; they travel, affecting plant and animal life that depend on these water sources.
The Money Trap
Farmers are paying a premium for neonic-treated seeds, but the benefits are negligible. Dr. Shawn Conley, State Soybean and Small Grains Specialist at UW-Madison, presented data showing that nearly all corn seeds and the majority of soybean seeds come pre-treated with neonics. However, most treated seeds do not result in significant yield increases for soybeans, especially in areas with low pest pressure. Consequently, farmers invest in these costly treatments with little or no return on investment (ROI). These neonics also harm beneficial insects like slug predators, which can exacerbate slug infestations and cause additional crop damage. Such impacts strain farm budgets in an already volatile agricultural economy. Meanwhile, chemical companies reap the financial rewards from the widespread use of neonic treatments.
Despite these issues, many farmers use neonic-treated seeds as a risk mitigation strategy, even though the costs outweigh the benefits. Neonic treatments can account for nearly 20% of soybean production costs, yet alternative methods—such as adjusted planting dates, higher seeding rates, or targeted foliar pesticide applications—can achieve similar results at a lower cost. By reevaluating their reliance on neonics, farmers can save money while maintaining productivity and reducing environmental harm.
Toxic Watersheds
Dr. Russ Groves, an expert in integrated pest management (IPM) at UW-Madison, raised another red flag. Neonics, used on specialty crops like potatoes and snap peas, are often applied directly to seeds or soil. However, in Wisconsin’s sandy soils, these pesticides tend to leak into groundwater and streams by the end of the growing season. Researchers consistently found high levels of neonics in farm wells and nearby streams, raising serious concerns about potential harm to wildlife and human health. Farmers in these areas are beginning to collaborate through watershed groups to explore solutions for reducing pesticide contamination and protecting local water resources.
Killing the Helpers: Effects on Aquatic Life and Pollinators
Aquatic ecosystems are particularly at risk. Dr. Travis Schmidt of the U.S. Geological Survey shared studies indicating that neonic concentrations in certain Wisconsin waters exceed levels known to harm aquatic insects. These insects, crucial to the food web, support fish populations and other wildlife. With neonics disrupting these systems, the broader impact on aquatic ecosystems could lead to imbalances, including reduced fish populations.
Pollinators, especially bees, are also suffering from neonics. Dr. James Crall of UW-Madison’s Department of Entomology highlighted how even low exposure to neonics disrupts bees’ ability to navigate, forage, and maintain colony health. Given the critical role of pollinators in supporting agriculture, the decline of bee populations presents a significant risk to crop yields and biodiversity.
Humans Are Exposed Too
Daniel Raichel from the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) emphasized that neonics have been detected in the environment, including water sources and food products, leading to potential exposure for humans. He pointed out that studies have linked neonicotinoid exposure to neurological and developmental issues, particularly in children. Although further research is needed, the preliminary findings add urgency to calls for stricter regulations on neonics.
Is the Cost Worth the Benefit?
The data presented at the Wisconsin Neonic Forum paints a troubling picture: neonics are pervasive, damaging ecosystems, putting pollinators at risk, and driving up costs without clear benefits. As experts highlighted, sustainable alternatives to neonics exist, and they may be more cost-effective and environmentally friendly than continuing down the neonic path. For farmers, understanding the true impact of neonics and considering alternative pest management practices could protect both their livelihoods and the environment.