MacEwan University is Raising Bees on Top of Campus Buildings
Katherine Pendrill — August 4, 2016 — Eco
References: macewan & globalnews
Alberta's MacEwan University recently began raising bees on top of one of the buildings at its City Centre Campus. While many college classes cover the role of bees in our ecosystem, this university is giving students an opportunity to get a first-hand look at the process of beekeeping.
The rooftop beehives are part of a pilot project launched by MacEwan University. In order to study the role that bees play in our ecosystem, the university flew in 32,000 bees from New Zealand. The bees will be cared for by on-site beekeeper Troy Donovan, who will ensure the safety and security of the hives. In addition to raising bees, Donovan will also harvest honey that will be used in the university's dining hall. In the first year alone, about 50 to 75 pound of honey is expected from each hive.
The urban beekeeping initiative at MacEwan University demonstrates one of the unique ways that campuses can facilitate hands-on learning.
The rooftop beehives are part of a pilot project launched by MacEwan University. In order to study the role that bees play in our ecosystem, the university flew in 32,000 bees from New Zealand. The bees will be cared for by on-site beekeeper Troy Donovan, who will ensure the safety and security of the hives. In addition to raising bees, Donovan will also harvest honey that will be used in the university's dining hall. In the first year alone, about 50 to 75 pound of honey is expected from each hive.
The urban beekeeping initiative at MacEwan University demonstrates one of the unique ways that campuses can facilitate hands-on learning.
Trend Themes
1. Urban Beekeeping - The initiative at MacEwan University shows the trend of incorporating beekeeping in urban environments.
2. Hands-on Learning - The campus beekeeping program exemplifies the trend of providing students with practical, real-world experiences.
3. Ecological Study - The university's initiative reflects the trend of universities focusing on studying and understanding the role of bees in the ecosystem.
Industry Implications
1. Education - The campus beekeeping program presents an innovative opportunity for educational institutions to enhance environmental studies and hands-on learning experiences.
2. Agriculture - The urban beekeeping trend opens doors for the agriculture industry to explore innovative approaches in honey production within urban settings.
3. Food and Beverage - Restaurants, cafeterias, and food services can take advantage of the trend by incorporating locally sourced honey, promoting sustainable practices, and supporting campus initiatives.
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