GPRC - CRI National Bee Diagnostic Centre - Technology Access Centre (NBDC-TAC)

The NBDC is the first comprehensive laboratory in Canada to provide a full array of diagnostic services for honeybee pests, diseases, and parasites. It comprises a new facility with state-of-the-art equipment for classical and molecular diagnosis, and a team of highly trained and motivated staff that apply the latest techniques on pathogen identification. The NBDC is the result of a partnership between the GPRC-CRI and the Beaverlodge Research Farm (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada) where it is located. The project attracted the strategic investment of the Federal Government through the Western Economic Diversification Canada and of the Provincial Government through the Rural Alberta Development Fund. The Centre will provide diagnostic services for beekeepers, researchers, agencies and industry with the aim to contribute towards a healthy, sustainable and profitable apiculture in Canada. We employ cell culture, microscopy and molecular techniques to identify bacteria, fungi, mites and viruses that affect honey bees. These maladies reduce honey production, weaken hive strength and in many cases produce colony collapse. Beekeepers and Apiary SME's can also access information and resources to help advance their new product ideas into the marketplace. This includes material on patenting, engineering, prototypes, market development and accessing angel capital.