While honey bee populations dwindle across the globe, Penn State researchers aim to use communication technologies to spread revolutionary beekeeping techniques that will help offset the effects of Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD).

CCD is an epidemic that started making headlines in 2006 when beekeepers began reporting unusual losses of 30-90 percent of their hives. Even before this phenomenon gained international attention, the number of domesticated honey bee colonies in Pennsylvania dropped from 80,000 to 30,000 in just 20 years. These sizable losses decreased the in-state production of honey by more than 2 million pounds annually -- and if the trend continues, it could threaten the stability of $60 million worth of Pennsylvania's bee-dependent agriculture.

A new strain of norovirus, known as GII.4 Sydney 2012, is making the rounds this winter, causing a significant number of acute outbreaks. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it has become the dominant strain, causing more than 140 reported outbreaks in the United States this year.

People should try to limit their exposure to norovirus and try to minimize its spread, advised an expert in Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences.

"There are some important reasons that lead to so many people becoming ill from norovirus," said Martin Bucknavage, extension food safety specialist.

"One is this virus' low infectious dose. It is estimated that it may take less than 20 viral particles to make someone ill. Then, there is the ability of the virus to survive on dry surfaces for two weeks or more and in water for months."

Pennsylvanians can express their opinions about the state's water resources by filling out a brief online survey conducted by Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences and several partner agencies.

Researchers are interested in learning what residents believe about the current status of the Keystone State's water and how they think funding and other resources should be prioritized to best protect and manage water resources. The objective is to collect opinions from thousands of Pennsylvania residents, according to Bryan Swistock, Penn State Extension water resources specialist, who is coordinating the research.

Preparations are under way for the 2013 Forest Products Equipment and Technology Exposition, which will be held June 7 and 8 at Penn State's Ag Progress Days site at Rock Springs.

Known as Timber 2013, the bi-annual trade exposition is hosted by the College of Agricultural Sciences and the Pennsylvania Forest Products Association. Parking and admission are free.

Timber 2013 is an opportunity for owners and employees of forest-products companies to hone their business skills, learn about the latest production practices and see emerging technology, according to Penn State's Bob Oberheim, Timber 2013 manager.

Ever since she was little, Jeanette Blank dreamed about traveling to Australia. After years of dreaming, Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences helped her get there at last.

When she finally arrived, she was determined to learn as much as she could and take any opportunity presented to her. "Before I left on the trip, someone told me that if I came home and said ,'I wished I had done something there,' they'd kick my butt," Blank said. "So I was on a mission!"

Blank, a senior majoring in agricultural and extension education, traveled to Australia with a small group of students. Their goal was to learn more about the differences in natural resources and tourism between Australia and the United States.

Growers should be aware of the Produce Safety Rule proposed Jan. 4 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, according to a food-safety expert in Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences. If adopted, it will establish mandatory practices that farmers must employ to prevent microbial contamination of fresh produce.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, or UNESCO, has established a UNESCO Chair in Rural Community, Leadership and Youth Development in Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences. Co-hosted by the college's Center for Economic and Community Development and its Office of International Programs, the chair will be held by Mark Brennan, associate professor of rural community and leadership development.

According to Penn State President Rodney Erickson, the opportunity to establish a UNESCO chair is a rare and prestigious honor. "We are gratified that UNESCO recognizes Penn State's expertise and track record in affecting positive change for people in rural communities and developing countries around the world," he said. "This chair will enable Penn State to foster leadership training and youth development in regions where it's most critically needed."

Erickson noted that only 18 UNESCO Chairs are located in the United States, with just four housed at land-grant institutions. None exist in colleges of agriculture or in the Big Ten, and only four worldwide are related to youth issues.