Updated 5/25/18.
About
We are a student and faculty run research group at Lower Columbia College in Longview, Washington who share the common goal of increasing public awareness surrounding the use of pesticides. Specifically, we are aiming to increase awareness on the effects of pesticides towards bees. We hope to increase public awareness through sharing the analytical test results of honey and beeswax samples sent in to us by beekeepers.
This project, called the LCC Bee Project, is still in the developmental stages. Read about our future goals for the project here, and stay updated with the project here.
This project, called the LCC Bee Project, is still in the developmental stages. Read about our future goals for the project here, and stay updated with the project here.
Process
We begin by collecting honey and beeswax samples from both local and out of state beekeepers. It is important to note that both honey bees and bumble bees produce honey, but it is honey bee honey that is primarily collected by beekeepers because of its surplus. Bumble bees do not create honey combs, and therefore do not produce beeswax [1].
After obtaining samples, we run the honey/beeswax through our gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) instrument to detect pesticides in a given sample. Finally, the results are shared with the beekeeper and publicly on our website, providing beekeepers with a helpful tool in the analysis of their bee products, and the public with an understanding of pesticide integration in bee products. In addition to lab work, we also carry out research on the interaction of bees (honey and bumble) and pesticides in the environment to better inform ourselves and others on the impact of pesticides towards these vital pollinators. Information can be found here. |
Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry machine pictured above.
|
Purpose
We aspire to help improve the mindfulness of beekeepers and the public on what is present in bee products, encouraging a cleaner and safer environment for both pollinators and people.
Our mission statement is as follows: "The LCC Bee Project, composed of Lower Columbia College students and staff, is developing a testing program to screen honey and beeswax samples for traces of pesticides. Then as a free service, the results of testing will be shared to further inform beekeepers and the public".
Our mission statement is as follows: "The LCC Bee Project, composed of Lower Columbia College students and staff, is developing a testing program to screen honey and beeswax samples for traces of pesticides. Then as a free service, the results of testing will be shared to further inform beekeepers and the public".