Ryerson Woods to host discussion of global bee crisis

Beekeepers around the United States and the world are reporting an incredible loss of honey bees to a phenomenon called “Colony Collapse Disorder” that threatens the entire agricultural system.

On Thursday, Jan. 19, Friends of Ryerson Woods will delve into the world of honeybees with a screening of the acclaimed film “Queen of the Sun: What Are the Bees Telling Us?” and a discussion with local experts.

The program is from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Welcome Center at Ryerson Woods, on Riverwoods Road, between Half Day Road (Route 22) and Deerfield Road near Deerfield. The cost is $10 ($5 for Friends of Ryerson Woods members). To register, call (847) 968-3343 or visit www.ryersonwoods.org.

A profound, alternative look at the global bee crisis from Taggart Siegel, director of “The Real Dirt on Farmer John,” this film investigates the long-term causes behind the global bee crisis through the eyes of biodynamic beekeepers, commercial beekeepers, scientists and philosophers.

They examine the catastrophic disappearance of bees and the mysteries of the beehive. “Queen of the Sun” unveils 10,000 years of beekeeping, illuminating the deep link between humans and bees and how that historic relationship has been lost due to highly mechanized industrial practices.

Present at the screening will be several prominent Chicago-area experts, who will be available to answer any questions about issues raised in the film.

Rachel Rosenberg, executive director of Safer Pest Control Project, will introduce the film and discuss the impacts of pesticides on bees and the environment in Illinois, as well as safer alternative methods.

Rebecca Tonietto, graduate candidate in plant biology and conservation at Northwestern University and the Chicago Botanic Garden, will explain her research investigating the effects of tallgrass prairie restoration on native bee communities in northeastern Illinois and share her collection of native bee specimens.

This program is presented in partnership with the Safer Pest Control Project.