Episode Details

In this third episode of our month-long Habitat Crisis series, made possible by the Minnesota Honey Producers Association, Jeff and Becky sit down with Dr. Diana Cox-Foster from the USDA-ARS Pollinating Insects Research Unit. Diana shares fascinating insights from her research on the complex interactions between honey bees and native pollinators, revealing the impact of habitat loss on bee populations. You'll hear about her team's innovative studies on the carrying capacity of environments and how honey bee colonies can coexist with native species without negatively affecting them—so long as floral resources are sufficient.

Listeners will also learn about the importance of creating more bee pastures, strategies to improve pollinator health, and the challenges posed by habitat degradation, climate change, and pesticide use. Diana's research sheds light on how to balance the needs of managed honey bees and wild pollinators, offering science-based solutions to restore and protect critical habitats. This episode offers valuable information for beekeepers and anyone interested in supporting pollinators in the face of a changing environment.

Listen today!

Websites we recommend:

• USDA-ARS Pollinating Insects Research Unit: https://www.ars.usda.gov/pacific-west-area/logan-ut/pollinating-insect-biology-management-systematics-research/
• Beescape: https://pollinators.psu.edu/bee-health/beescape
• Minnesota Honey Producers Association: https://minnesotahoneyproducers.com/
• Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org
• The National Honey Board: https://honey.com

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com
• 2 Million Blossoms - The Podcast: https://2millionblossoms.com

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

The Habitat Crisis Series is presented by the Minnesota Honey Producers Association. The Minnesota Honey Producers Association (MHPA) is comprised of commercial, sideliner, and backyard beekeepers and has promoted Minnesota beekeeping since the early 1900's. The recently established MHPA Habitat Program aims to provide information about vital honey bee habitat and nutrition issues by: 1) informing and uniting beekeepers around efforts to promote honey bee habitat; 2) supporting opportunities to increase honey bee habitat; and 3) improving communication about honey bee and pollinator habitat to landowners, farmers, and legislators.

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Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee trul