To The Daily Sun,
State Rep. John MacDonald (Wolfeboro and Tuftonboro) advanced bipartisan legislation in August focused on addressing the pervasive use of neonicotinoids associated with declining lake quality.
Science informs us that the class of neonicotinoid pesticides in agriculture and turf — including lawns, landscaped areas, golf courses, and municipal fields where runoff can reach New Hampshire lakes, streams, wetlands, and groundwater — is degrading our beloved lakes. The aquatic life that supports fish, birds, and clean water is under pressure.
House Bills 1086 and 1431, pertaining to neonicotinoids used in seed treatment and as pesticide, respectively, found success in the New Hampshire House, despite the ubiquitous presence of industry lobbyists, according to MacDonald. However, the Senate punted to the Pesticide Control Board, which has rule making authority over pesticides. That move killed them.
Commissioner of Agriculture Shawn Jasper stated in his Weekly Market Bulletin (Jan. 21, 2026) that he did not think the proposal to make the sale of treated seeds illegal as of Jan. 1, 2029, “is in the best interest of production agriculture,” but shared the opinion that making neonicotinoids a restricted use pesticide “may be the best solution to the issue.”
Tonya Albee, of the Six Legged Society, submitted a formal petition asking the PCB to commence its rule making in support of the successful House bills, noting urgency to “help protect lake ecosystems, water quality, and recreation ... The damage to the lakes continues. It affects every single person in this state.”
Albee says Jasper termed the petition “redundant” but refused to share any evidence.
A PCB meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 18, at 9:30 a.m., Room 208, at 1 Granite Place in Concord. Albee urges citizen attendance to encourage acceptance of the petition and a public accounting of the PCB’s opinions.
If you share her concern, please let a representative know.
Elissa Paquette
Wolfeboro
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