Jonathan Lundgren: Regenerative Agriculture and Honey Bee Health - (023)

Dr. Jonathan Lundgren is a former USDA-ARS soil scientist, having received his PhD in Entomology from the University of Illinois in 2004. Today he is Director of ECDYSIS Foundation and CEO of Blue Dasher Farm. He has also recently contributed to Bee Culture magazine!

ECDYSIS Foundation is focused on researching and finding new ways (sometimes finding new, 'old' ways) for producers to grow food, conserve biodiversity and environmental health through independent and unbiased scientific support. Jon and his team are reimagining agriculture practices using ecological principals with independent, farmer-driven research.

Blue Dasher Farm was established to demonstrate the feasibility of regenerative agriculture and to show case its many benefits for farmers, the community and scientists. Jon has stated, that for us to solve the bee problem, we have to heal the soil. Listen to the podcast and you will state the same!

In this episode, Jeff and Kim talk with Jon about his work, the importance of the soil and how the solution to the problems we are facing with honey bees is literally, under our feet! He talks about how the neglect of the soils, the tilling and the tons of the chemicals applied has stripped the soil of its self-healing and cleansing abilities.

This is an interesting discussion and one you will want to listen to!

Websites and links mentioned in this podcast include:

• EDYSIS Foundation - https://www.ecdysis.bio
• Blue Dasher Farm - https://www.bluedasher.farm
• Jon's Bee Culture Article, November 2018, "Confessions of a Corn Entomologist" - https://www.beeculture.com/confessions-of-a-corn-entomologist/
• Jon's Bee Culture Article, January, 2018, "Dicamba and Bees" - https://www.beeculture.com/dicamba-and-bees/

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This episode is brought to you by A.H. Meyer & Sons. A.H. Meyer & Sons are a 4th generation family owned business serving beekeepers through their wax rendering and service, rent honey-packing, and manufactured pallet clips. Visit them today at https://www.meyerhoneyfarms.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this show with Dr. Jonathan Lundgren!

Thank you, A.H. Meyer & Sons for your support of the Beekeeping Today Podcast!

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We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com

Thanks to Bee Culture, the Magazine of American Beekeeping, for their support of The Beekeeping Today Podcast. Available in print and digital at www.beeculture.com

Thank you for listening!

Podcast music: Young Presidents, "Be Strong"