Honey bee colonies have developed many ways to stay healthy.  Their immune responses range from behaviors such as grooming to using materials such as propolis, a plant-derived substance bees coat on the interior of a hive for antimicrobial purposes.  Even the gut of the honey bee contains beneficial bacteria to help the bee stay healthy!

In your essay, name at least two threats (a parasite such as Varroa, a pathogen such as a virus, a predator such as a bear, etc.) to honey bee colonies and then discuss the methods colonies use to defend against the threats. If possible, include at least one picture you have taken from Feb. 2020-Feb. 2021 that illustrates how colonies manage to stay healthy against a variety of threats.  

An essential judging criterion is the scope of research you put forth in developing the ideas behind your essay - accounting for 40% of your score. The number of sources consulted, the authority of the sources and the variety of the sources are all evaluated. Personal interviews with beekeepers and others familiar with the subject are valued sources of information that should be documented. Sources, which are not cited in the endnotes, should be listed in a "Resources" or "Bibliography" list.

Each State Winner, including the national winners, receives an appropriate book about honey bees, or honey from The Foundation for the Preservation of Honey Bees, Inc.

Eligibility: Louisiana 4-H Club members who have not won the "˜1st Place' Louisiana Honey Bee Essay Award are eligible to participate.  Contest is open to active 4-H Club members only.  4-H'ers who have previously placed first, second, or third at the national level, or first place on the state level, are not eligible (see Louisiana Awards Handbook).

1.   Complete all fields in the "Student Info Section" below.

2.   Be sure to upload your "FINAL" essay. You will NOT be able to make changes after submission. ALL submissions are DUE by March 8, 2021 at 11:59 AM.

3.   Essay must be typewritten or computer-generated on single-sided pages and formatted following standard manuscript format using double-spaced type and 12pt font in legible font face.

4.   Essay must encompass the designated topic in 750 to 1,000 words.

5.   All factual statements and interview references must be cited in a "resources" or "bibliography" list.

6.   Essays will be judged on (a) scope of research, 40%; (b) accuracy, 30%; (c) creativity, 10%; (d) conciseness, 10%; and (e) logical development of the topic, 10%.

Submitting the form sends your information to your local 4-H agent who will determine eligibility.

You will receive a notification email once the form is received by the 4-H Office.

A separate panel of judges will score all essays.

Be sure that all fields are complete and are in the correct format (email address, phone number, zip code, etc.).
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