![]() ![]() ![]() Such findings inspired a group of enthusiastic Iowa State students to explore the science and business of beekeeping. Siting hives in prairie strips leads to larger populations of bees that are more robust and produce more honey - about 24% more honey than bees in hives on farms without prairie strips. The research has shown prairie strips have significantly more blooming flowers, especially in late summer, a critical time when bees collect nectar for the winter. The practice also provides important habitat for grassland birds and benefits soil and water quality.” “That includes significantly improving much-needed habitat for bees and other beneficial insects, such as monarchs and weed seed-eating ground beetles. “We have documented multiple benefits from prairie strips integrated within conventional production practices,” O’Neal said. That work revealed the potential to integrate honey production with Science-based Trials of Rowcrops Integrated with Prairie Strips (STRIPS), a new, nationally recognized conservation practice developed at Iowa State. The new ISU honey on the shelf represents years of research on pollinator health and survival in Iowa’s agricultural landscape led by professors Amy Toth and Matt O’Neal in the Department of Entomology. They started producing what is now being called ISU “classic” honey. Their unique flavors reflect the work of many partners, including Iowa State scientists, staff and students and farmer collaborators.Īn apiary was established at the ISU Horticulture Research Station in 2020, under the leadership of Randall Cass, ISU Extension and Outreach bee specialist, and Nick Howell, superintendent of the Horticulture Research Station. ![]() Photo by Nick Howell.ĪMES, Iowa - Visitors to Pollinator Fest, Saturday, June 25, at Reiman Gardens in Ames, can taste test the newest sweet treats from Iowa State University – Iowa State-produced honey and its alter ego, Prairie STRIPS honey. Iowa State University honeys are a partnership project produced at the Iowa State University Horticulture Research Farm and on prairie strips of farmer collaborators. ![]()
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