What's Happening in Olympia, WA…

An Olympia-based mushroom expert is working with the head of the Entomology Department at the University of Washington on a research project that could save a lot of bees.

Many of these tiny creatures have been dying across North America due, in part, to diseases spread by the parasitic varroa mite. Bee researcher Steve Sheppard has been trying to breed ones that are resistant to this problem, but hasn’t had a lot of luck. He decided to try a new approach.

He had received a call from Paul Stamets who owns Olympia Company Fungi Perfecti, and grows and sells medicinal mushrooms and related products. He had observed honeybees consuming substances produced by fungal roots in his backyard, and thought there could be something important going on.

Sheppard decided to investigate, and since then, has been researching the relationship using a special version of the fungus. He reported that, so far, the results have proven to be positive, with the products destroying the mites while leaving the bees unharmed. A firm that provides printing services can compile the results and create Brochures that explain them to those who may be interested in the project.

A further experiment is planned for this fall where the substance will be used by commercial apiarists to determine how well it works for them. Local beekeeper Eric Olson, who will be taking part, said he is glad to have the opportunity to try something that might help his bees survive.


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