Northern Queen Initiative

The Northern Queen Initiative (NQI) operates a direct charitable program that runs a hands-on, cooperative breeding network to strengthen honey bee genetics in cold-climate States. Its work focuses on providing free and low-cost education in Queen-rearing, on-farm training, and an open-source breeding protocol using locally adapted survivor stock selected for gentle behavior and natural mite resistance. Participants advance through two tiers: certified Queen breeders, who raise and report on improved Queens, and Queen rearers, who help mate and distribute those Queens while gaining experience. NQI promotes pollinator resilience through a community-driven approach without relying on prophylactic chemicals.