Within the framework of the European Union Cohesion Policy Programme 2021–2027, under Specific Objective 1.1.1 “Strengthening research and innovation capacity and the introduction of advanced technologies within the overall R&I system”, and Measure 1.1.1.9 “Postdoctoral Research” (Project Agreement No. 1.1.1.9/1/24/I/001), the research project No. 1.1.1.9/LZP/1/24/122 titled “Exploring the potential of native conifer products for honey bee protection” was launched on 1 July 2025.

The project is implemented by Ronalds Krams, a researcher at the Scientific Institute “BIOR”.

During the 2025 summer season, within the framework of the research project No. 1.1.1.9/LZP/1/24/122 “Exploring the potential of native conifer products for honey bee protection”, practical field research activities were initiated. The main focus during this period was on the establishment of experimental infrastructure, strengthening cooperation mechanisms and preparation for subsequent research stages.

During the reporting period, an experimental apiary was established, providing a platform for in situ studies with honey bee colonies. Regular monitoring of colony health, development and condition was carried out, forming the basis for future analyses of the effects of pine needle products and their phytoactive substances on honey bee immunity, vitality and overwintering success. The experimental apiary ensures controlled conditions that are representative of practical beekeeping, supporting reliable and applicable research outcomes.

In September 2025, postdoctoral researcher Ronalds Krams participated in the international scientific conference “49th APIMONDIA International Apicultural Congress” in Copenhagen, Denmark, where a poster presentation on physiological stress in pollinators in agricultural landscapes was delivered. Participation in the conference supported the exchange of scientific knowledge and the establishment of professional contacts relevant to the further implementation of the project.

On 26 September 2025, the project was presented to the wider public during the European Researchers’ Night 2025 through an informational stand introducing the project objectives and activities.

In order to enhance the professional competence of the postdoctoral researcher, participation in the professional development courses “Beekeeping for Beginners” (professional development education programme “Beekeeping”), organised by the Latvian Beekeeping Society and the Centre for Lifelong Education of the Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies, was initiated in October 2025. The training provides theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for the implementation of the project.

During the project implementation, cooperation agreements were concluded with industry partners. Collaboration with beekeeper Valērijs Ašķeļaņecs ensures the availability of honey bee colonies and land for the experimental apiary, as well as practical consultations on seasonal beekeeping activities and colony management. In addition, the commercial partner ZS “Kurmīši” will provide pine needle product for research purposes and relevant information on product characteristics and production processes required for experimental planning and interpretation of results.

Since November 2025, research mobility has been initiated at the Chair of Plant Health of the Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences (Tartu, Estonia). The mobility period contributes to strengthening international cooperation in the fields of pollinator ecology and agricultural entomology, the acquisition of new research approaches and methodologies, and the international integration of project results.

Project Funding – Total approved budget: EUR 184,140.00, European Regional Development Fund (ERDF): EUR 156,519.00 (85.0%), State budget funding: EUR 18,414.00 (10.0%).

Project Duration: 36 months – from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2028.

Date: 02 January 2026.