At the Honey Bee Research Centre, our team conducts apiculture research primarily focused on honey bee health. We also provide a university level apiculture course, weekend beekeeping courses, and many other educational experiences. The Ontario Agricultural College initiated apiculture training and research in 1894. In 1920, an apiculture building was built on campus that was the first of its kind in North America for beekeeping studies. Our current facilities include a molecular biology laboratory focusing on honey bee genetics and diseases, 13 apiaries for our 300 beehives, honey bee breeding stations on two islands in Lake Simcoe, an indoor colony overwintering room and the equipment necessary for all aspects of beekeeping and hive product processing. Honey bees play a key role in agricultural productivity and ecosystem sustainability by providing pollination services to crops and wild plants. Our mandate is to help honey bees continue this vital work.