USGS Finds Low Levels of Neonics in Numerous Waterways

Low levels of neonicotinoid insecticides were found in almost two-thirds of streams tested by U.S. Geological Survey researchers, according to a USGS study published online Aug. 18 in the journal Environmental Chemistry.

The findings reflect the widespread use of the class of insecticides—produced and sold by Bayer CropScience, Syngenta and other agrochemical companies—in both agricultural and residential settings. According to the USGS, this is the first nationwide study looking at the prevalence of neonicotinoids in water.

The researchers took water samples of 48 streams across the country, with an emphasis on streams in the upper Midwest. They detected traces of ...