D3153: How does functionality and performance of honey bee colonies differ with alternative hive structures?

Beekeepers are facing increased challenges, from honey bee population loss to the spread of misinformation in management guidance. As the diverse audience of hobbyist beekeepers grows, innovations are essential, particularly as the reasons for keeping bees have also diversified. Beekeepers today are not just interested in honey production but also providing pollination services, producing value-added products, and offering educational opportunities to new beekeepers. This research examines how beekeeping management differs with alternative hive structures or the hive boxes that are used to house each honey bee colony. Data on various functional measures, such as honey production, brood rearing, thermoregulation and overwintering success will help elucidate advantages and disadvantages of each alternative hive structure compared to the traditional Langstroth hive. Results from this project may facilitate successful management of bees for educational purposes which will enhance external partnerships, increase educational opportunities, and further promote engagement with local communities regarding the importance of pollinator-friendly landscapes and practices that support healthy bee communities.