The Orchard Bee Association invites applications to receive mason bees for research endeavors. This Bees for Research grant program was created for the benefit of OBA members in order to address gaps in research in the management of orchard bees.

Provision: Applicants can submit requests for mason bees, nesting supplies, and/or other materials needed for research.

Eligibility: We invite researchers at all career stages for this application cycle.

Selection: Applications will be reviewed by a committee comprised of mason bee researchers in academia and extension, orchard fruit growers, and mason bee suppliers. Notification will occur by mid-December 2022.

Deadline for application submission: Sunday, Dec 22nd, 2022 at 11:59:59 PM Eastern Standard Time

Instructions: Applicants must fill out this Google form and also submit a 1-2 page written proposal (in word .doc/.docx or PDF format, single or double-spaced) via email to vicepres@orchardbee.org that covers:

• the scope of the project

• location of study

• species of interest

• methods

• expected results

• timeline

• the specifics of your request (e.g., how many mason bee cocoons are needed, what species are needed, any preferred management practices on timing and overwintering, etc.)

If you have any questions about proposal content, please email Morgan Dunn at vicepres@orchardbee.org

Requirements: Recipients must become OBA members and present their findings at our annual Orchard Bee Association meeting that takes place in the Fall.* Recipients must also submit a summary of the research undertaken with OBA resources at the conclusion of their project.

About OBA: The Orchard Bee Association was founded in 2011 by a team of independent businesses, orchard managers, and researchers to encourage a role of stewardship, preservation, and enhancement of orchard bee populations as well as responsible wild bee management practices to preserve local genetic stock of bees with respect to elevation, climate, and local flora.  

Questions? If you have any questions or experience difficulty accessing this form, please email Morgan Dunn at vicepres@orchardbee.org

* Typical costs of OBA annual membership + annual meeting registration = $125 total