Insect pollinators are declining globally, threatening productivity in cropping systems. Our understanding of the role of different native pollinators, such as native bees and other insects, along with honey bees in pollinating crops under field conditions is limited. We also lack knowledge about the diversity and abundance of pollinator populations on farms, and how we might be able to support them by enhancing floral nectar and pollen resources.

One aspect of this is the need to understand what floral resources key bee species such as honey bees, stingless bees and blue‐banded bees use in different seasons, and what non-crop plants that are high-value for bees are readily available and suitable for farm plantings. In addition, we need to better understand disease threats in pollinator communities, including the extent to which native bees share diseases with honey bees and vice versa.

This project is addressing these key knowledge gaps and delivering education to producers to support healthy pollinator populations and to boost on-farm pollination. The project involves field work on almond, apple and cherry crops.