Agricultural approaches to address the requirements of the Endangered Species Act and non-target pollinators protection

The importance of addressing pollinator protection has gained increasing

recognition among agricultural stakeholders. The decline in bee populations, along with

other pollinators, poses a significant threat to biodiversity and the stability of ecosystems.

Pollinators play a crucial role in the reproduction of many plants, including crops that are

vital for human consumption and economic stability. Therefore, the intersection of

agricultural practices and conservation efforts has become a focal point for researchers

and policymakers alike. There are over 3,600 bee species native to the U.S. and Canada,

some of which are vulnerable to extinction. Alongside bees, several butterflies and other

pollinator species are listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Therefore, it is

essential to support initiatives that reduce the risk posed by pesticide to these

populations. One such initiative is the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (USEPA)

strategy to meet its obligations under the ESA. The strategy outlines practical mitigation

measures that improve pesticide use practices among growers reducing risks to federally

listed species from insecticide use. It focuses on reducing spray drift, runoff, and erosion

and identifies specific areas of agriculture and listed species overlap that may require

additional mitigation measures. The strategy covers conventional insecticides, insect

growth regulators, and miticides, identifying protections for more than 850 species listed

by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, including 660 terrestrial invertebrate species. This

presentation will explore how the agricultural community is complying with ESA,

emphasizing approaches to minimize chemical exposure to non-target species, while

fostering biodiversity and enhancing ecosystem resilience.