> are you suggesting it only had an effect on insects in the soil? That is the design, so theoretically, yes. Of course, as I'm sure everyone reading HN knows,

> are you suggesting it only had an effect on insects in the soil? That is the design, so theoretically, yes. Of course, as I'm sure everyone reading HN knows, even the best engineered plans can have unforeseen problems. The research I am familiar with indicates the treatment does not make it to the pollen, which means, if the bees are being exposed, it is most likely through some other mechanism. That is why the planting machinery is the prime suspect, and the early results from the aforementioned rule changes here in Canada do look promising, although it is probably too soon to reach any formal conclusions.