Researchers study how to breed queen bees in Canada
Photo: Western Producer / SaskToday
November 19, 2024
CSFS Associate Dr. Leonard Foster, a professor of biochemistry and molecular biology at the University of British Columbia, is leading a $4.5 million research initiative focused on breeding queen bees and nucleus colonies in Canada. This project aims to mitigate the significant hive losses Canadian beekeepers face during winter while reducing dependence on imported bees. Dr. Foster highlighted the importance of this work, stating, “Developing region-specific overwintering strategies will help Canadian beekeepers sustain their colonies through harsh winters and reduce the risks associated with importing bees, such as disease transmission and biosecurity threats.”
Funded by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council, the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, and the Sustainable Agriculture Research Initiative, this research takes a localized approach, tailoring strategies to different provinces. Dr. Foster emphasized the long-term benefits, saying, “By fostering domestic stock replacement, we strengthen Canada’s apiculture industry and promote sustainable practices that align with our unique climate conditions.” This effort promises to provide Canadian beekeepers with practical solutions while boosting resilience in the face of environmental challenges.