Honeybees play a pivotal role in our lives, from pollinating plants and ensuring the growth of our food supply to nurturing ecosystems and supporting entire industries.
North Carolina State University has joined forces with the N.C. State Beekeepers Association as well as beekeepers from across the state to create a buzzworthy honeybee research and education program. This initiative will equip N.C. State with the necessary tools to educate beekeepers and bolster the health of honeybee populations in the region. At the same time, it positions North Carolina as a leader in bee research on a national scale.
Honeybees contribute much more than the honey they produce, highlights David Tarpy, N.C. State University Scholar Professor and Extension Apiculturist. Their primary contribution to our greater ecosystems lies in the pollination service they provide to agriculture, which ensures the quality and value of a vast array of fruits and vegetables. Additionally, honey bees serve as a vital early warning system for environmental issues that could impact us all.
As part of the initiative at N.C. State, an exciting fundraiser is currently underway to establish the nation’s first endowed professorship in apiculture. This will ensure that the program continues to thrive and lead in bee research indefinitely.
With a growing commitment to bee research and a strong community of beekeepers, NC State is buzzing with potential. Together, they are working towards a future where honey bees thrive, ensuring a sustainable and fruitful environment for us all.
