NRDC Statement on Colorado Pollinator Executive Order

DENVER — Today, Colorado Governor Jared Polis signed an executive order at the Denver Zoo, directing state agencies to strengthen protections for pollinators.

Following is a statement from Allison Johnson, a senior attorney with the Nature team at NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council):

“Governor Polis’ executive order is an important step toward protecting Colorado’s bees, butterflies, and other pollinators from pesticides. Neonicotinoids are among the most dangerous pesticides for pollinators because they can contaminate soil, water, pollen, and nectar, exposing insects long after the initial application.

“By directing the Department of Natural Resources to lead and collaborate on a statewide pollinator strategy, this order can help Colorado move from good intentions to coordinated, measurable action.

“The order recognizes the need to support private landowners and local governments in creating more habitat and reducing pesticide reliance. Technical assistance and education through state agencies, including the Colorado Department of Agriculture, can help communities, farmers, ranchers, and land managers choose safer pest-management approaches while restoring the native habitat pollinators need to survive.

“Pollinators are essential to Colorado’s food security, wildlife, wildflowers, and outdoor heritage. Reducing toxic pesticide exposure, especially from unnecessary and harmful neonics, is an essential step the state can take now to help them recover.”

NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council) is an international nonprofit environmental organization with more than 3 million members and online activists. Established in 1970, NRDC uses science, policy, law and people power to confront the climate crisis, protect public health and safeguard nature. NRDC has offices in New York City, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Beijing and Delhi (an office of NRDC India Pvt. Ltd).