Almonds are referenced in virtually every news report about bees. The overall tone of media references to the almond industry as it relates to bee health decline is neutral, but the sheer size and reliance on pollination of the almond…
Return of the Natives
This new article in Scientific American’s special Food issue addresses how reviving native bee species could help support pollination of fruit, vegetable, and nut crops. The article features Project ICP team members Neal Williams, Claire Kremen, Julianna Tuell and Project…
Researchers Tackle the Decline of Bees in Michigan
Each year, billions of dollars of our nation’s agriculture sector are the direct result of the work done by bees. In Michigan, blueberry, apple and cherry growers – among others – count on them to pollinate their crops. Listen to…
Honeybees, Other Bees Put to the Test Pollinating Michigan Blueberries
A recent study by Michigan State University scientists showed that blueberry growers who plant wildflowers near their fields see an increase in their yields. Why? Because the wildflowers supply shelter and food to support bees and other insects that pitch…
Going Wild Could Improve Winged Workforce
Every spring in the United States, bees pollinate crops valued at about $14 billion. A Michigan State University professor and a team of scientists are using a five-year, $8.6 million grant from the United States Department of Agriculture to keep…
Integrated Crop Pollination May be Key to Success with Many Michigan Crops
An international study revealing the importance of wild pollinators for production of fruits and vegetables is providing new insights that may help improve Michigan’s pollination-dependent crops… Read the full article posted by MSU Today
ICP Project Funded by USDA
EAST LANSING, Mich. — The U.S. Department of Agriculture has awarded Michigan State University $1.6 million for the first year of leading a national crop pollination research and extension project. The five-year project will focus on supporting specialty crop yields…