Pesticides banned to protect bees
Portland joins other cities; can be used on private land
PORTLAND– The Portland City Council has banned the use by the city of a class of pesticides particularly harmful to bees, including a chemical that is the most effective control of a pest that attacks roses – the city’s symbol.
The council voted unanimously Wednesday to adopt an ordinance that bars the city from buying or using neonicotinoid pesticides on city property, and urging retailers to label plants, seeds and products containing them.
It does not stop people from using the pesticides on private property.
Neonicotinoids have been blamed for seven bee kills in Oregon since 2013. Seattle and Spokane, Eugene and national wildlife refuges have banned their use to protect pollinators.
The ban was hailed by conservation groups, which are also working for statewide restrictions on the pesticides.