ARS Pollinator Health in Southern Crop Ecosystems
Research Unit Outreach Event
The ARS Pollinator Health in Southern Crop Ecosystems Research Unit established a new apiary in Stoneville, MS with honey bee colonies decorated by students in the local community! The unit used this opportunity to engage with their community by connecting them through art by partnering with local art alliances (Delta Arts Alliance and Greenville Arts Council), bringing a splash of color to the apiary.
Dr. Pierre Lau and Sarah Dietrich gave presentations on bee biology, pollination, and agriculture at public, alternative, and private schools in the Mississippi Delta. Students, ranging from grades K-12, were instructed and tasked to paint honey bee boxes with something they learned or were inspired by in the presentations. The classes were also invited to tour the facilities. This was an activity used to involve the community and bring awareness of the ongoing research and opportunities in STEM.
Photos From the Event
Biological science technician Amy Ray holding a brood frame.
Support scientist Sarah Dietrich has a head of bees!
These bee boxes, structures that house bee colonies, were painted by students from local schools.
The student did a great job! The researchers are looking forward to adding this pop of color to the new apiary.
Research ecologist Dr. Pierre Lau is holding up a frame of bees while setting up the bee boxes in the Pollinator Health in Southern Crop Ecosystem Research Unit's bee yard.
Research chemist Weiqiang Zhang wearing a full bee suit stands next to three of the hives.
