Farmer fined for failing to warn locals about pesticide spraying risks

A farmer in Primorsky Krai has been penalised for failing to warn beekeepers and locals about pesticide spraying. The incident occurred in 2025, when Andrey Omelchenko, head of a peasant farm in Khorolsky Municipal District, did not follow legal notification requirements. Authorities have since highlighted the issue as part of a broader crackdown on agrochemical violations.

Russian law requires farmers to announce pesticide use in advance. Notifications must appear in local media 5 to 10 days before spraying. They must also list the chemical names, dosages, and how long bees should stay confined.

Omelchenko’s farm did not issue these warnings, even though apiaries and settlements were within 7 kilometres of the treated fields. This distance triggers mandatory alerts under agricultural regulations. The case is part of a wider pattern in the region. Since early 2026, Rosselkhoznadzor, the agricultural watchdog in Primorsky Krai, has issued 23 warnings for similar violations. Most involve improper pesticide or agrochemical handling.

The lack of notification could have put local bee populations and residents at risk. Rosselkhoznadzor continues to monitor compliance with pesticide rules across the region. Further breaches may lead to stricter penalties for those responsible.