Which of the following actions best protects bees during pesticide use?

• A. Apply pesticides when bees are not active
• B. Use a pesticide with low bee toxicity
• C. Notify beekeepers if hives are within 3 miles or 48 hours prior
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

Bees face exposure to pesticides mainly through drift, residues on nectar and pollen, and contact with treated surfaces. Protecting them involves reducing exposure through multiple avenues. First, applying when bees are least active lowers the chance of direct contact during foraging. Second, choosing a pesticide with low toxicity to bees reduces harm if exposure occurs. Third, notifying beekeepers about nearby hives and timing lets them take precautions or move colonies away from treated areas, decreasing the likelihood of contact with residues. Using all of these strategies together provides the most comprehensive protection, which is why all of the above is the best approach.