Paul van Westendorp
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Asian Giant Hornet; the Apex Predator of the Insect World
Speaker
Paul van Westendorp
Organization
Provincial Apiarist of British Columbia, Ministry of Agriculture
Rotary Club of Tsawwassen.
Bio
First introduced to bees and beekeeping at the age of eight. Studied Agricultural Sciences at UBC followed by apiculture research at the Agriculture Canada Station, Beaverlodge, Alberta for several years. Project Manager of Apiculture Development Project, CARE-International, Uganda. Appointed Provincial Apiarist, Alberta for several years followed by appointment of Provincial Apiarist of British Columbia, 1989-present.
Presentation
Asian Giant Hornet; the Apex Predator of the Insect World.
This issue came to the forefront since this invasive pest was first confirmed on Vancouver Island in 2019. Comprehensive surveys have been carried out on the Island and Fraser Valley in 2020 and will continue for the next few years. The 20 minute powerpoint presentation gives a brief outline about the hornet, its potential of establishment and dispersal on Westcoast, and the impact it may have on the public and the environment.