#United States #Washington #BeSure! Campaign #Growing Matters #Environmental Stewardship

Growing Matters Launches 2026 BeSure! Campaign to Promote Environmental Stewardship

Growing Matters is set to kick off its annual BeSure! campaign for 2026, a vital initiative aimed at promoting responsible product usage in agriculture during significant planting and growing periods. The campaign emphasizes the importance of best management practices, ensuring that environmental and community protection remains a priority year after year. With a focus on safeguarding pollinators, wildlife, and water quality, the campaign brings together stakeholders across the agricultural landscape, advocating for stewardship that begins at the very foundation of farming: seed planting and product application.

Since its inception in 2019, the BeSure! campaign has been dedicated to educating applicators and growers who handle a variety of crops, including row crops like corn, soybeans, fruits, nuts, and vegetables. Its primary goal is to reach those workers using neonicotinoid insecticides by providing a comprehensive resource hub full of information, guidelines, and best practices. This includes safeguarding the well-being of essential pollinators such as bees and other wildlife, which play a critical role in agriculture and biodiversity.

As the 2026 planting season approaches, it’s imperative that all involved parties adhere to the following best management practices designed to enhance safety and minimize environmental impact:

Best Management Practices for Applicators

• - Adhere to Regulations: Applicators are urged to comply with all pesticide regulations and instructions on product labels. Proper training for employees before applications is essential.
• - Dust and Spray Drift Minimization: Implement written protocols to reduce the risk of dust or spray drift when working with treated seeds, soil drenches, and foliar sprays.
• - Stewardship Across Product Life Cycle: Incorporate stewardship practices that focus on the entire life cycle of seed treatment products.
• - Proper Disposal of Materials: Ensure the responsible disposal of unused products and rinse water according to label instructions, safeguarding adjacent waterways from potential contamination.
• - Transparent Communication: Effectively communicate all vital neonicotinoid treatment information to customers receiving application services or treated seeds.

Best Management Practices for Growers

• - Label Adherence: Follow the directions provided on labels or seed bag tags regarding the storage, application, and disposal of treated products.
• - Use of Lubricants: While planting treated seeds, opt for advanced seed flow lubricants that significantly reduce dust exposure and eliminate flowering plants near the fields.
• - Directional Sprays and Calibration: When conducting any foliar applications, sprays should be directed away from flowering plants and water bodies, while also ensuring equipment is calibrated to diminish drift.
• - Beekeeper Communication: Remain aware of nearby honeybee populations and communicate effectively with local beekeepers to avoid unintended impacts on pollinators.
• - Safe Disposal Practices: After planting, remove and properly dispose of treated seeds, preventing them from entering commodity grain channels.

Collaborative Efforts and Endorsements

The American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) has taken pride in its continued partnership with Growing Matters and the BeSure! initiative. ASTA’s President and CEO, Andy LaVigne, stated, “Farmers are our best stewards of the land; ASTA and our partners will strive to continue providing them with the best possible seeds to foster better crops and, ultimately, a better quality of life.” The campaign has also garnered endowment from many other organizations, including CropLife America, the Agricultural Retailers Association, and the Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association.

Focus on Pollinators

The BeSure! campaign underscores the integral role of honey bees and other pollinators in agriculture. Mike Aerts from the Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association emphasized the importance of careful product use and communication to minimize impacts on pollinators while addressing agricultural demands.

For practical stewardship guidance, stakeholders are encouraged to visit Growing Matters’ website. The site offers extensive resources such as the ASTA’s Guide to Seed Treatment Stewardship and various other guides catered to best practices that support pollinator health.

About Growing Matters

Growing Matters is supported by a group of companies dedicated to promoting healthy, transparent discussions surrounding stewardship in agriculture. With members such as Bayer, Syngenta, and BASF, the consortium aims to highlight the benefits of neonicotinoid-related crop protection. For more insights, visit their official website at www.GrowingMatters.org.

About American Seed Trade Association

Established in 1883, ASTA represents over 650 seed companies and advocates for advancements in the seed industry across North America. The association is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life through the development of superior seed products from alfalfa to zucchini. To discover more, explore www.betterseed.org.

About Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association

FFVA is an agricultural organization that represents the majority of Florida's fruit and vegetable producers. More information can be found at ffva.com.