As farmers begin to think about their spring spraying programmes they are being encouraged to sign up for BeeConnected, a new way for farmers to inform beekeepers of their intention to spray an insecticide.
Currently best agricultural practice requires that notification takes place when certain crop protection products are used. BeeConnected makes that process quick and easy by providing a simple web-based system where farmers can register and identify a field they are planning to spray with an insecticide by dropping a pin in the on-screen map.
The system was developed by The Voluntary Initiative (VI) and Chairman Richard Butler says BeeConnected has been designed to work quickly and efficiently for farmers and beekeepers alike. He says:
“BeeConnected operates on a very simple, yet efficient, two-way process whereby farmers identify their fields and, in just a few clicks, are able to inform local beekeepers when they intend to spray an insecticide in particular fields. Beekeepers plot the location of their hives, and will then receive a notification ahead of when a farmer within their locality is planning to undertake a spray event.”
To develop the system the VI worked closely with the National Farmers Union (NFU), the British Beekeepers Association (BBKA) and the Crop Protection Association (CPA), who funded the development of the site.
Mr Butler adds: “This is a great opportunity for all farmers and beekeepers nationwide to improve their communications, for a mutual benefit. As spring spraying draws nearer we encourage all farmers and beekeepers to make full use of the site and register by visiting www.beeconnected.org.uk.”
