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” has been implemented since 1 July 2025.

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

During the reporting period, within the framework of research project No. 1.1.1.9/LZP/1/24/122 “Exploring the potential of native conifer products for honey bee protection”, maintenance of the experimental apiary and regular monitoring of honey bee colonies continued, providing the field conditions and data required for the implementation of the research. Following the overwintering period, the condition of the colonies was assessed, and experiments investigating the effects of pine needle product and its phytoactive compounds on honey bee lifespan, immune response and overwintering survival were continued. At the same time, data compilation, scientific literature review and preparation of materials for the first scientific publication arising from the project are ongoing. The research is continuing, and the results obtained will be analysed and published in international scientific journals in accordance with the project implementation plan.

In March 2026, the research mobility at the Chair of Plant Health, Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences (Tartu, Estonia), was completed. During the mobility period, modern approaches to pollinator monitoring, molecular biology and experimental research methodologies were acquired, practical experience was gained in working with honey bee and bumblebee colonies, and international cooperation in the fields of pollinator ecology and agricultural entomology was further strengthened. The knowledge and methodological experience acquired during the mobility will be directly integrated into the subsequent experimental activities of the project in Latvia.

In order to further enhance the professional competence of the postdoctoral researcher, participation in the 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, continued throughout the reporting period. In April 2026, the first-year theoretical training programme was completed, and practical training at the teaching apiary in Jelgava commenced in May, further developing practical skills in working with honey bee colonies and beekeeping equipment. The theoretical knowledge and practical skills acquired during the programme are being integrated into the experimental activities of the postdoctoral research project.

During the reporting period, the postdoctoral researcher participated in two beekeeping conferences organised by the Latvian Beekeeping Society – the 11th International Latgale Region Beekeepers’ Conference in Rēzekne and the Beekeepers’ Spring Conference 2026 in Jelgava. Participation in these events provided an opportunity to gain insight into current developments in the beekeeping sector, establish professional contacts with representatives of the beekeeping community, and promote knowledge transfer between scientific research and practical beekeeping.

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: 01 July 2026.