Neonicotinoid Pesticides

MSI PI Bill Arnold (professor, Civil, Environmental, and Geo- Engineering) and members of his research group were interviewed by Minnesota Public Radio (MPR) about their recent publication on pesticides in Minnesota lakes and rivers. The researchers discovered that low levels of neonicotinoid pesticides, which have been implicated in declines in pollinator numbers, can be found in Minnesota’s waters. The researchers emphasize that the levels are too low to affect humans, but could be an environmental problem. The paper was published in December in the journal Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry: Neonicotinoid Insecticides in Surface, Ground, and Wastewater across Land Use Gradients and Potential Effects.

The interview can be found on the MPR News website: Researchers Find Insecticides Widespread in Minnesota Lakes and Rivers.

Professor Arnold uses MSI for research into pollutants that infiltrate natural systems and the development of processes to remove them.