At Appalachian State University, Dr. Rahman Tashakkori and his team are advancing the development of a tool aimed at reducing honeybee die-off and boosting hive production. This initiative is supported by a $641,951 grant from NCInnovation.
NCInnovation is a nonprofit corporation that aids North Carolina public university research with commercial potential. It provides funding, mentorship, and support to help turn concepts into companies within the state.
“Our faculty are recognized nationally for their innovative research and teaching,” said App State Interim Chancellor Heather Norris. “Their work is having a positive impact in Western North Carolina and beyond.”
Dr. Tashakkori, a distinguished professor in the Department of Computer Science at App State, has led the creation of the Beemon Hive Monitoring System. This system offers beekeepers insights into honeybee colonies by tracking bee movements, sounds, and patterns.
The NCInnovation grant will fund design finalization for four Beemon components in its first year and focus on testing and patenting these components in its second year. These components were developed using three-dimensional printers at App State's lab.
App State’s grant is one of eight pilot grants awarded by NCInnovation, which received state funding to establish an endowment in the 2023–24 budget.
“Our network of statewide research universities is an incredible asset for North Carolina,” said Michelle Bolas, NCInnovation executive vice president.
Approximately 12 years ago, Tashakkori began this project after discussing bee losses with Dr. James Wilkes, department chair of computer science at App State.
“My good friend, Dr. Wilkes... always complained that he has been losing bees — 30%, 50%,” said Tashakkori.
Tashakkori’s team expanded their research with various funding sources including the Lowe’s Distinguished Professor Fund.
“Through our research... we have lost hives and research equipment — thanks to bears,” Tashakkori said.
In April, they consolidated hives at App State’s Sustainable Development Teaching and Research Farm with help from students and citizen scientists who provide data from diverse locations including Belgium.
“We have enjoyed the opportunity to collect data from the hives in Belgium...” stated Tashakkori.
The team seeks additional funding to expand hive monitoring across different climates.
Since starting this project 12 years ago, Tashakkori has involved eight to ten students annually in this program.
“Grants like the NC Innovation grant provide a tremendous opportunity...” he said.
Will O’Brien ’23 ’24 expressed enthusiasm about his involvement: “I remember Dr. Tashakkori showed my orientation group around...”
Logan Richardson ’14 ’24 shared how his experience benefited him: “Through this team... I have been able to continue to develop my skills...”
Temitayo Olofintuyi noted learning valuable teamwork lessons: “I have also learned the value of having multiple team members that provide their own perspective...”
Appalachian’s Department of Computer Science offers rigorous education preparing students for industry or graduate studies with accredited degrees available through https://compsci.appstate.edu
The College of Arts and Sciences at Appalachian spans humanities through sciences offering diverse programs detailed at https://cas.appstate.edu
Appalachian State University prepares students as global citizens offering over 150 undergraduate majors detailed at https://www.appstate.edu
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