National Honey Bee Health Survey

USDA is collaborating with the University of Maryland to conduct a comprehensive national honey bee pest survey over several years to get information about bee health and changes in bee health over time. They are looking for beekeepers interested in participating in the survey.

If you are interested in volunteering or have any questions contact Yolanda Inguanzo

Information about the Survey

USDA is conducting large scale multi- year bee health surveys. We are looking for volunteers.

  • Apiaries must have at least 10 colonies, 8 will be sampled
  • 2 samples of ¼ cup each will be collected from each colony
  • One frame per colony will be visually examined and “tapped” to dislodge any parasites which will then be collected
  • Samples will be analyzed for exotic pests not known to occur in N America and other pests to get a data set of general bee health
  • 5 colonies per state that elect to be part of a longitudinal study, will be sampled in the spring and fall and additional information will be collected
  • Wax samples of 3 grams can be tested for 200 known pesticides
  • Confidentiality will be maintained, data shared publicly is at the state level
  • More information can be found at: Beeinformed.org
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