USDA Bee Research Facilities
Beltsville Bee Lab – Beltsville, Maryland
The Beltsville Bee Lab is located in Beltsville, Maryland and is the main USDA Research facility for Honey bees in the U.S. Its mission is to conduct research into the biology and control of honey bee parasites, diseases and pests to ensure an adequate and viable supply for pollination and honey production. Using biological, molecular chemical and non-chemical procedures, USDA scientists are developing new and cost-effective strategies for controlling parasitic mites (Varroa, Tracheal), bacterial diseases (American, European Foulbrood), fungal infections (Nosema apis, ceranae) and pests such as Small Hive Beetle and Wax Moths.
Additionally, the Beltsville facility focuses on preservation of honey bee germplasm in order to maintain genetic diversity as well as ensuring the future viability of honey bee stock.
The Beltsville research staff are also available to any beekeeper in the U.S. (and worldwide) as well as to State and Federal regulatory agencies to provide authoritative diagnosis and evaluation of all sorts of honey bee diseases and problems. Learn how to Send Samples to Beltsville Bee Lab.
Carl Hayden Bee Research Center – Tucson, Arizona
The Carl Hayden Bee Research Center performs many of the functions of the Beltsville Bee Research Facility, but focuses more on the study and control measures for Africanized bees and honey bee issues related more to the geographical regions of the American Southwest. The Carl Hayden Facility staff will perform diagnostic tests for beekeepers suspecting various disease problems.
Honey Bee Breeding, Genetics, Physiology Laboratory – Baton Rouge, Louisiana
The Baton Rouge Bee Lab, as the title suggests, is concerned primarily with breeding and genetic issues regarding honey bees. The development of Suppressed Mite Reproduction (SMR) and Varroa Sensitive Hygiene (VSH) traits were all developed at the Baton Rouge lab. The introduction of the Buckfast strain into the U.S.was through the quarantine facilities there. Development and promotion of the so called Russian strain were also done through the Baton Rouge facility.
Biology and Systematics Laboratory – Logan, Utah
The Biology and Systemics Lab in Logan focuses primarily on non-apis species of bees (bumble bees, alkali bees, etc.), mainly as indigenous, alternative pollinators to honey bees.
National Associations
American Beekeeping Federation
IPM Voice is a newer, independent nonprofit corporation working to increase IPM adoption, awareness and support. Their mission is to advocate for Integrated Pest Management (IPM) that is genuinely progressive and seeks continuous improvement of environmental, social and economic conditions through application of accepted scientific principles.
Regional Associations