When spraying near bee colonies, who is responsible for keeping the bees away?

When considering the responsibilities surrounding the protection of bee colonies during pesticide applications, the owners of the bees hold a crucial role. The reason for this is that beekeepers are usually knowledgeable about their bee colonies' behavior and can implement necessary precautions. They have a vested interest in preserving their bees and are aware of the times when their bees are most active or likely to be affected by pesticide exposure.

Beekeepers can communicate with pesticide applicators to reduce potential risks by creating safe zones, advising on optimal times for application, and ensuring that their colonies are buffered from potential pesticide drift. This collaborative effort between the applicators and the owners enhances safety for both the bees and the efficacy of pest control measures.

While applicators have training and a duty to minimize harm to non-target organisms, including bees, the proactive responsibility lies significantly with the bee owners who are most familiar with their colonies and are inherently motivated to protect them from pesticide exposure.