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The Native Bee Identification Workshop, held at the University's Harold R. Benson Research and Demonstration Farm, gave participants practical skills to recognize and classify Kentucky’s wide variety of pollinators. Led by Kristin Conrad, research and extension associate and pollinator ecologist in forestry and natural resources in the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources, the event was among the first of its kind in the state.

Native bees are critical to the food chain, pollinating fruits, vegetables, and wild plants that support both people and wildlife. Unlike honeybees, which are non-native, many of Kentucky’s native species are solitary and often overlooked, though they provide essential services for healthy farms and natural landscapes.

Participants in the workshop included landowners, Master Gardeners, students, and natural resource professionals. Each gained a stronger understanding of how to identify bee species and why pollinator conservation is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and food production.

The morning session took place in the farm’s pollinator plots, where attendees collected bees using aerial nets and vials. The fieldwork offered immersive training in identifying traits such as size, color, flight behavior, and seasonal activity.

In the afternoon, the group gathered at the Center for Sustainability of Farms and Families, a 12,000-square-foot multifunctional building located at the Harold R. Benson Research and Demonstration Farm. The center hosts conferences, workshops, and other events. There, participants took a closer look at specimens under microscopes.

Conrad guided participants in studying wing venation and body hair patterns, features that are vital for accurate species identification. A microscope camera connected to a projector gave everyone a clear, shared view of the intricate details.

Attendees also learned how to use dichotomous keys and online resources to continue their studies after the event. A group activity called “2 Bee or Not 2 Bees” challenged participants to distinguish bees from other insects, including wasps, flies, and moths.

“This workshop was a fantastic opportunity to take a closer look at these essential pollinators,” Conrad said. “Our goal is to empower attendees with the confidence to identify the bees they see, understand their critical role in the environment, and consider native bee habitat conservation in their land management decisions.”

The workshop underscored Kentucky State’s commitment to community education, sustainability, and environmental science. Many participants expressed interest in future programming, such as advanced bee identification, habitat restoration, and long-term pollinator monitoring.

By equipping Kentuckians with the tools to better understand and protect pollinators, Kentucky State is advancing its mission as a land-grant institution to support agriculture, strengthen communities, and promote environmental stewardship across the Commonwealth.