delta

Case Study: Honey Bee Health Coalition

Overview/Background

The Issue: Develop, incubate, and endorse projects that allow beekeepers and growers to support a healthy population of honey bees.

The Honey Bee Health Coalition (HBHC), facilitated by the Keystone Policy Center, brings together beekeepers, farmers, scientists, manufacturers, and government agencies to promote bee health and support sustainable agriculture. Formed in response to declining bee populations due to habitat loss, pesticides, and disease, the Coalition seeks to advance collaborative solutions that benefit both pollinators and food systems.

Our Approach
Keystone Policy Center coordinates the HBHC’s efforts, providing a neutral platform for diverse stakeholders to develop and implement strategies that enhance honey bee health. Keystone fosters dialogue, promotes evidence-based decision-making, and guides the development of tools and best practices. This includes the creation of resources like the “Bee Integrated Demonstration Project” and guides for best practices in hive management and habitat conservation.

The Results
Since its inception, the HBHC has made significant strides in improving bee health through collaboration and innovation. The Coalition’s resources, such as the “Varroa Management Decision Tool” and the “Bee Nutrition and Forage Guide,” have been widely adopted, contributing to more sustainable beekeeping practices and the promotion of pollinator-friendly habitats. These initiatives have garnered recognition for their impact on environmental sustainability and food security, illustrating the power of partnership in addressing complex ecological challenges.