Beekeeping Today Podcast - Presented by Betterbee
July 19, 2018

Tom Theobald - The Problem With Neonicotinoids (008)

Tom Theobald is a long time beekeeper who lives outside Boulder, Colorado. Tom has been sounding the alarm about the problem we all face with the over use and accumulation of neonicotinoids (neonics) in the environment since before his July, 2010...

Tom Theobald is a long time beekeeper who lives outside Boulder, Colorado. Tom has been sounding the alarm about the problem we all face with the over use and accumulation of neonicotinoids (neonics) in the environment since before his July, 2010 article in Bee Culture.

Jeff and Kim talk with Tom about his personal research and the concerns he has on neonicotinoid use, its impact on our environment and of course the cumulative effect on honey bees and other pollinators.

It is a discussion that has raised passions on all sides of the debate.  You can read Tom's original article on the neonic problem here: https://www.beeculture.com/toms-podcast-special/

Kim wraps up the show with his Inner Covered.

Questions/Comments: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com

Thanks to Bee Culture, the Magazine of American Beekeeping, for their support of The Beekeeping Today Podcast. Available in print and digital at www.beeculture.com

 Thanks for listening! 

Podcast music: Young Presidents, "Be Strong"

Tom TheobaldProfile Photo

Tom Theobald

Beekeeper, Columnist

Tom Theobald was a notable figure in the beekeeping community, particularly recognized for his advocacy and dedication to the health and welfare of bees. Residing in Niwot, Colorado, Theobald had a profound impact on both local and national beekeeping circles.

His journey in beekeeping began in the 1970s, when he transitioned from a career in information technology to full-time beekeeping. This shift marked the start of a passionate and committed journey in the world of apiculture. Theobald managed his own apiaries, nurturing and caring for bees, while also being deeply involved in the broader beekeeping community. Tom was a founding member of the Boulder County Beekeepers Assn.

Tom was widely know in the Boulder area for his column, "Notes from the Beeyard" in local papers and the Fence Post, a weekly agricultural publication.

One of Theobald's most significant contributions was his advocacy for the wellbeing of bees, especially in the face of growing concerns about pesticides and their impact on bee populations. He was particularly vocal about the risks posed by neonicotinoid pesticides.

Tom passed on November 10, 2021