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Michigan State University highlights pollinator-friendly practices ahead of beekeeping conference

An apiculture educator is encouraging farmers to consider pollinator health when applying pesticides.

Michigan State University Extension’s Ana Heck tells Brownfield, “As much as we can, make sure that we’re not getting pesticides onto flowers that are in bloom that bees are visiting, and then other places like water and nesting sites.”

“Then another big piece of it is reading the pesticide labels,” she says.

She says farmers play an important role in supporting beekeepers as colonies continue to face major losses. She points to Varroa Mite as another major threat to honeybees.

“This is a mite that spreads viruses and diseases between colonies and also within bees in the colony,” she explains. “The population of these mites tends to grow in spring through fall, and that’s also how our diseases build up in the hives.”

Heck says planting flowers, trees, and shrubs that provide pollen and nectar throughout the growing season is one of the best ways to support pollinators.

Michigan State University is hosting the Heartland Apicultural Society Conference this weekend to share the latest research and best management practices with beekeepers from across the Midwest.