A bumblebee pollinating a flower.

A bumblebee pollinating a flower.

Maryland’s bee colonies are collapsing at a much higher rate than the national average. While experts believe a number of factors have contributed to the staggering loss, Maryland lawmakers are zeroing in on one particular threat: pesticides. In April, the state’s General Assembly became the first in the nation to approve a ban on non-commercial use of pesticides with neonicotinoids, which are said to be harmful to bees. As Governor Hogan decides whether to sign the “Pollinator Protection Act” into law, Kojo examines this potential solution with two local experts.

Guests

  • Michael Raupp "Bug Guy" and Professor of Entomology, University of Maryland
  • Dennis vanEngelsdorp Assistant Professor of Entomology, University of Maryland, Project Director of the Honey Bee Epidemiology Lab

Honeybee pollinating bluebonnet

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