Minnesota Neonic Forum 8:30 am to 3 pm

Learn about Neonicotinoid Pesticides, their usage in Minnesota, and the threats they pose

insert_invitation Thu, Jan 15, 2026 8:30 AM (CST)

location_on UMN Southern Research and Outreach Center, Waseca, Minnesota

Details

Neonicotinoid (“neonic”) insecticide seed treatments are used on roughly 11 million+ acres across Minnesota each year. Less than 5% of the insecticide is taken up into the crop--the rest of it makes its way into the groundwater and into our streams. Neonics are highly toxic to insects, including aquatic insects; it has been estimated that one ounce can kill 6 billion bees. Our chapter will be advocating for effective regulation of these seed treatments in the upcoming Minnesota Legislative Session. Currently, there are no meaningful regulations.

The goal of the forum is to provide research-based information that increases audience members’ knowledge about what neonicotinoids are, why and how they are used in agricultural systems, understand current seed treatment effectiveness data, and what the current and projected effects of widespread use are in MN. The event is hosted by University of Minnesota Extension Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships.

If you are interested in joining TCTU's efforts to regulate Neonics, or if you just want to be better informed, please join us!