Episode 346: Matt Mulica
Apr 30, 2025
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Summary:
In this episode of The Produce Moms Podcast, host Lori Taylor welcomes Matt Mulica, a Senior Project Director at the Keystone Policy Center, to discuss the critical role of honey bees in agriculture and the alarming decline in bee populations. They explore the importance of bees for pollination, the challenges faced by beekeepers, and the initiatives of the Honey Bee Health Coalition to address these issues. The conversation highlights the interconnectedness of agriculture, bee health, and food supply, emphasizing the need for collective action to support bee populations and ensure a sustainable future for food production.
Takeaways:
- The honey bee is essential for pollinating one third of our food supply.
- Colony Collapse Disorder has led to significant bee population declines since 2006.
- The Honey Bee Health Coalition brings together diverse stakeholders to address bee health issues.
- Beekeepers face challenges from pests, diseases, and environmental factors affecting bee health.
- Planting diverse flowers can support bee nutrition and health.
- The recent 62% loss of honey bee colonies is a significant crisis for agriculture.
- Consumers can support beekeepers by buying local honey and planting flowers.
- Understanding the causes of bee decline is crucial for developing effective solutions.
- Mediation is essential in resolving conflicts between agriculture and beekeeping interests.
- The health of bee populations directly impacts food prices and availability.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to the Importance of Bees
02:52 Understanding the Role of Honey Bees in Agriculture
10:48 The Honey Bee Health Coalition: Addressing Colony Loss
22:00 Current Crisis: Catastrophic Honey Bee Colony Losses
30:30 Conclusion and Call to Action for Bee Support
Resources:
Website: Homepage – Honey Bee Health Coalition
Facebook: Facebook
