Who is responsible for keeping bees away when spraying near bee colonies?

The correct understanding regarding the responsibility for keeping bees away when spraying near bee colonies is that it is indeed a shared duty between both the applicator and the owners of the bee colonies. While the owners have a significant responsibility in ensuring the safety of their bees, including possibly relocating them during application or communicating their presence to applicators, the applicators are also trained and legally required to consider the safety of non-target organisms, including bees, during pesticide applications.

Applicators should take appropriate measures to minimize the impact on bees, such as altering application times or methods when necessary. However, owners of the bee colonies may be in the best position to proactively manage their bees to prevent exposure during spraying events. This cooperative approach ensures that both parties are taking the necessary steps to protect these vital pollinators while adhering to safe pesticide application practices.