Written by Emily J. Symmes, UCCE Sacramento Valley IPM Advisor With almond bloom on the horizon, it is time to revisit best management practices for protecting pollinators (e.g. honey bees) during this critical time. Remember that communication is key during the bloom period. All parties should be kept informed so that beekeepers are aware of impending applications and applicators are aware of the requirements related to notification, materials, timing, location, and method of application. This includes growers, beekeepers, land owners-lessees, PCAs/CCAs, pesticide applicators, and county Agricultural Commissioners. General guidelines: Employ sound IPM practices: Apply pesticides only when absolutely necessary based on monitoring and treatment thresholds. Know all of the available materials and application timings. For insect pests, there are effective alternative timings for insecticide applications aside from the bloom period. If the weather remains dry and clear throughout bloom, there should be minimal need to apply bloom fungicides. One solid application just ahead of full bloom should be adequate for good disease control under these conditions. Earlier spray timings (e.g. pink bud) if wanted, may be applied every-other-row. Be aware of the impacts of any treatments on pollinators and other non-target organisms. Always provide adequate clean water for bees: Cover or remove water sources prior to any application. Keep water clean and fresh ensuring bees spend more time pollinating the crop than searching for water. Bees can forage up to 5 miles away seeking food and water if not available in the orchard, increasing their risk of contact with harmful pesticides. Do not spray hives directly with any pesticide. Ensure the spray-rig driver turns off nozzles when near hives. Do not spray flying bees with any applications. Aside from toxicity concerns, bees will not be able to fly because of the weight of spray droplets on their wings. Even water