MSU Hygienic Testing Beekeeping Workshop

Friday, June 14, 2024
5:30-7:30 p.m.

Michigan State University Pollinator Performance Center
4090 College Road, Building #0470E
Lansing, MI 48910

Join Michigan State University (MSU) for a workshop on how to test honey bee colonies for hygienic behavior and varroa sensitive hygiene. The session will demonstrate methods such as the freeze killed brood assay using liquid nitrogen, the duster spray can assay, UBeeO, and the Harbo assay.

Beekeepers interested in this workshop may also register separately for MSU's queen rearing workshop that will take place on the following day, Saturday, June 15.

Members of Great Plains Master Beekeeping can count this workshop toward master level credit in the 3.20 selecting for hygienic bees & varroa resistance category. 

Registration is $30.00 per participant. If the registration fee poses a financial hardship, please email Ana Heck at heckanar@msu.edu to inquire about a fee reduction/waiver. Fee waivers are available to all students enrolled in undergraduate or graduate degree programs.

This event is subject to change or cancellation due to weather or other circumstances.

Requirements

• Registration is required.
• This event is only for adults (18 years or older).
• Participants are encouraged to arrive with their own protective gear/clothing. MSU will have veiled beekeeping jackets (sizes M and XXL) for participants to borrow, but protection from stings is not guaranteed.
• Participants should not bring any other beekeeping equipment besides a beekeeping veil or suit due to biosecurity concerns. Previously used leather gloves will not be permitted.
• All participants are expected to understand that there is a risk of being stung. If you have ever experienced an allergic reaction to an insect sting, you must receive clearance from a medical professional and the program instructor prior to the event.

Acknowledgment

This work is supported by the Crop Protection and Pest Management Program [grant no 2021-70006-35450] from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

Thank you to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development for securing funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for Michigan State University to implement strategies in the Michigan Managed Pollinator Protection Plan.