MEDIA RELEASE

In an effort to raise awareness of a threat within the state’s agricultural economy, Gov. Neil Abercrombie this afternoon proclaimed June 18-24 as “Hawaii Pollinator Week.”

Abercrombie also signed into law a measure that will aid Hawaii’s fight to control pests and diseases that have been impacting the state’s bee populations.

House Bill 2100 appropriates $30,000 to the University of Hawaii (UH) system for bee hive research done in consultation with the Hawaii Department of Agriculture on Hawaii Island, Maui, Oahu and Kauai. This will include work being performed at UH Hilo’s 110-acre Panaewa farm to develop more efficient methods for controlling the small hive beetle, a major pest of honey bee hives on Hawaii Island.

“Bees are particularly important as pollinators for our macadamia nut and coffee industries; bee-pollinated crops contribute about $106 million to our local economy,” Abercrombie said. “The University of Hawaii is leading research that will help to protect many of Hawaii’s own native pollinators, including seven species of yellow-faced bees that are candidates for the endangered species list.

Hawaii Pollinator Week coincides with National Pollinator Week to raise awareness of the issue of declining pollinator populations. In Hawaii, there has reportedly been significant hive loss attributed to the varroa mite, small hive beetle and diseases. Loss of bee hives is a threat to the agricultural economy on all islands because bees are necessary to pollinate many crops.

Abercrombie added: “By marking Hawaii Pollinator Week in conjunction with National Pollinator Week, our state is helping to create a positive ‘buzz’ around bees and promote bee health as a vital component to healthy food systems and natural ecosystems.”

UH Hilo has been offering an introductory course on beekeeping for more than 20 years, and now also offers an advanced beekeeping course that allows students to build upon their acquired skills with independent projects that include research and creative activities.