Across the world, pollinator decline has emerged as a significant threat. Declines in bee populations in the U.S. have been linked to disease, introduction of exotic competitors and parasites, loss of habitat, and exposure to toxins. Bees are found throughout our environment and utilize a large range of habitats for foraging and nesting. Recently, we were awarded a grant to examine the diversity and concentration of chemicals collected by foraging bees within their environment. The use of chemicals is often considered only in agricultural habitats, but, municipalities, businesses and home owners also apply chemicals for control of pests and diseases. We will compare the concentration of key pesticides collected by pollinators foraging across urban, suburban and rural landscapes. We will also launch a citizen science program called Bee Healthy Landscapes where we will work with bee keepers to evaluate pesticide accumulation in commercial hives in Ohio.
This will be an interesting project. I prefer honey instead of white sugar for baking, and will be interested to read your findings.
ReplyDeleteGLAD YOU GOT THE GRANT!
ReplyDelete