Project BeeOmics is kicking off across Canada this summer, so we will have lots of exciting updates to share throughout the coming years. This $7.3 million project will involve ~1,000 colonies all the way from BC to Quebec. Based on our previous success with breeding for hygienic behaviour, the goal of Project BeeOmics is to develop selective breeding tools for 11 additional beneficial traits. Right now, protocols are being finalized and equipment has just been shipped out to the provinces. BC will be leading the pack by testing colonies for aggression, Varroa infestation, hygienic behavior, innate immunity and a suite of other characteristics. With the field season already here (early April swarms again this year!), the UBC team is rushing to get all the supplies ready and start testing!