Save Oregon's Bees
Join the fight against neonicotinoids!
Welcome to the buzzing world of pollinators! Did you know that these tiny creatures play a vital role in human health and food security? Research has shown that effectively managed pollination on small, diverse farms can increase crop yields by an impressive 24 percent! That means more delicious and nutritious foods like kale, blueberries, apples and almonds, which all depend on insect pollination.
The key to these bountiful harvests lies in well-pollinated crops which produce larger and more nutritious yields. If a crop has been well-pollinated, then larger and more nutrient-rich leaves, fruits and seeds will result.
Pollinators and Climate Change
Our precious pollinators are facing daunting challenges: climate change, habitat destruction and widespread pesticide uses are taking a toll on their health worldwide. As a result, we’re witnessing steady declines in pollinator populations (US honeybees suffer second deadliest season on record).
If this trend continues, nutrient-dense crops such as fruits, nuts and many vegetables will be replaced largely by self-pollinating and wind-pollinated crops like rice, corn and wheat. This shift can have serious consequences for the entire natural ecosystem. The unpredictable changes in global climate are likely to make such problems worse in the future.
Photo by Sherrie Pelsma
Bees and Neonicotinoids
One of the major culprits behind the catastrophic loss of bees and other insects is the use of neonicotinoid pesticides. These highly toxic, synthetic chemicals pose a significant threat to insects, even at low doses.
Furthermore, they persist in the environment and continue to harm beneficial soil organisms and aquatic life for years after their application. Neonicotinoids find their way into the nectar, pollen, leaves and many other parts of plants, endangering pollinators and other animals that rely on these resources.
Where Are Neonics Found?
Sadly, neonicotinoids are widely used worldwide. They are sprayed directly onto crops, trees and seeds in agricultural and urban settings, and even used for termite and flea prevention in pets. Surprisingly, neonics are often found in higher concentrations in urban areas than in agricultural lands! This is likely because they are commonly used for treatments for turf grass, trees, shrubs and flowers and are widely available in stores and online.
Shoppers Beware!
The labels on pesticide products don’t adequately warn consumers about the uptake of neonicotinoids by other plants. Shoppers assume that products sold at garden and grocery stores are completely safe, but research suggests that home use of neonicotinoid-containing pesticides far exceeds what is considered “safe” for pollinators and soil health.
What You Can Do to Help
Say 'NO!' to neonics! Avoid pesticides containing them, shop at garden centers that verifiably care about neonic-free products, and support legislation to remove neonics from consumer store shelves.
Support nonprofit organizations that advocate for stronger pollinator protections and raise awareness about issues impacting pollinator health. Donate your time or money to support these missions!
Bring Bee City to the attention of your local leaders. Eugene has been an official Bee City since 2018 after a joint effort led by Beyond Toxics and partner organizations.
Plant native flowers for pollinators and make your home garden more bee-friendly. Click here to learn more.
What Beyond Toxics is Doing and How You Can Get Involved
Beyond Toxics is dedicated to fighting toxic pollution and supporting legislation that prioritizes the health and wellness of our local communities and environments. We do this through events, community action, and political advocacy.
A student and chaperone at a Rasor Park Bee Survey in May 2025
Annual Bee Surveys
Every year, Beyond Toxics gathers volunteers from the community and heads out to various local parks for interactive, family friendly bee surveys. Together, we safely catch, observe, record, and release native bees while learning about their vital role in our ecosystem. These surveys allow us to keep a record of native bees year by year.
Pollinator Garden Work Parties
Beyond Toxics has been rehabilitating a garden plot in West Eugene, turning it into a pollinator- and insect-friendly patch. We host work parties throughout the spring, summer, and fall, bringing community members together to learn about sustainable gardening and pollinator health.
