NH’s pollinators and biodiversity are in jeopardy if pesticides are sprayed by drones in HB 1698. Its amendment would allow them to be sprayed from an elevation of 20 feet. This violates a person’s right to know if poisonous pesticides are being used. Please oppose HB 1698 by contacting the NH Senate before May 2. Pesticides poison pollinators, humans, air, water, soil, and all species in the chemical path. In fact, the Rusty-Patched Bumble Bee is believed to be locally extinct and is now on the endangered species list. Bees have been brought into the state, and our native bees have endured much loss over the years. Much of this is due to pesticides. People in New Hampshire need pollinators to survive because they are responsible for one in three bites of food we eat. Bees are a vital part of our food system. Pesticides and their drift harm humans and biodiversity.

Drift can extend for miles, wreaking havoc on farm workers, bees, and the environment. The Journal of the National Cancer Institute shared: “Household and Garden pesticide use in general can increase the risk of childhood leukemia as much as seven-fold.” NH legislators are trying to pass HB 1698, but ten other states have been protecting pollinators, including nearby New England states! The Mountain Times article shares: Vermont House Passes Pollinator Protection Bill H 706 has a key goal: “restrict the use of outdoor neonics!” Let’s move forward and protect our bees, food system, and people! Please contact all NH State Senators and oppose HB 1698 and its amendment.

Fawn Gaudet

Rumney