The USDA-ARS Beltsville Bee Lab is located in Beltsville, Maryland, and is the main USDA Research facility for honey bees in the U.S. Its mission is to conduct research into the biology and control of honey bee parasites, diseases, and pests to ensure an adequate and viable supply for pollination and honey production.
Using biological, molecular, chemical, and non-chemical procedures, USDA scientists develop new and cost-effective strategies for controlling parasitic mites (Varroa, Tracheal), bacterial diseases (American, European Foulbrood), fungal infections (Nosema apis, ceranae), and pests such as Small Hive Beetles and Wax Moths.
The Beltsville research staff are also available to any beekeeper in the U.S. (and worldwide) as well as to State and Federal regulatory agencies to provide authoritative diagnosis and evaluation of honey bee diseases and problems. Learn how to Send Samples to Beltsville Bee Lab.