The Ontario Beekeepers Association is recommending beekeepers not sign a blanket waiver of liability.
Grain Farmers of Ontario has suggested grain growers have some sort of written documentation where beekeepers accept risks to the hive and bees placed on farmers property.
GFO feels that waiver is necessary because new provincial regulations could force many growers to return to traditional spraying for pest control and crop protection.
The grain growers group argues that spraying may be more harmful to bees than the seed-based treatment that is being severely restricted.
The beekeepers organisation suggests if farmers are complying with the principles of integrated pest management, the bees will be safer than under the current neonic regime.
The OBA wants members to engage in what it calls a constructive and reassuring conversation with their farming partners.
The Association says that would include pointing out a current class action suit filed against the manufacturers of neonics is not an OBA action and that farmers are not exposed to this legal action.
Beekeepers are being encouraged to send any proposed liability waiver to the OBA for a free legal opinion before signing.
