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This text outlines a six-year initiative by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs to track the health and survival of local honey bee populations. By randomly selecting stationary apiaries for seasonal inspections, researchers aim to document the presence of various viral pathogens and parasites like Varroa mites. Inspectors collect biological samples and observe colony conditions from spring…

That well-intentioned garden to save bees might actually be a danger. Systemic pesticides can travel through groundwater, turning wildflower nectar into poison. The OBA's drastic solution: a 5km buffer zone. Your pollinator paradise could be a toxic trap. #Beekeeping #PesticideAwareness #GardeningTips #Pollinators #EnvironmentalThreat #honeybees #valleybeekeeping http://www.valleybeekeeping.com

Want to expand your apiary but dread the cost? Discover the ingenious 'division board' method that lets you split one strong hive into two healthy colonies using only what you already have. It's a beekeeper's dream for growing without breaking the bank. #beekeeping #apiary #hive #bees #homesteading #DIY #honeybees #valleybeekeeping http://www.valleybeekeeping.com

The Ontario Animal Health Network has established a specialized bee expert team to monitor and improve the well-being of managed honey bees and other local pollinators. Composed of researchers, government officials, and industry leaders, this collaborative group meets regularly to analyze disease trends, research gaps, and emerging health threats within the province. To support the agricultural community, the network provides…

The Ontario Beekeepers’ Association and Foodland Ontario are collaborating on a retail survey to evaluate the presence of honey in grocery stores this summer. By examining pricing, branding, and shelf placement, researchers hope to gain a detailed understanding of the current market landscape. This initiative aims to discover new marketing opportunities for local producers and educate the public on the…

Beekeepers must carefully weigh the benefits of a late-season nectar flow against the urgent need for parasite control. While autumn flowers provide a chance for extra honey, the author emphasizes that Varroa mite populations peak just as bee numbers begin to decline. To ensure hive survival, keepers should use an alcohol wash to check if infestation levels are above the…

What if making less of your main product actually meant more profit? It sounds backward, but researchers found this to be true for beekeepers. In Southern Alberta, massive numbers of bees are trucked in to pollinate canola fields. Traditionally, beekeepers earn from pollination services and selling honey. However, a surprising opportunity exists: all the extra pollen produced by canola plants,…

This guide outlines essential strategies for Ontario beekeepers to combat the Small Hive Beetle (SHB) through proactive colony management and strict biosecurity protocols. The text emphasizes that regular monitoring for adult beetles and larvae is crucial for early detection and preventing widespread infestation. To mitigate risks, beekeepers are encouraged to maintain strong, populous colonies and promptly address weak or queenless…

Is your beehive thriving or on the brink of collapse? In beekeeping, assessing colony strength is an art and science. Discover the nuanced factors that define a truly strong hive and why a common language is crucial for the industry. #Beekeeping #ColonyHealth #HoneyBees #ApiaryManagement #BeeScience #honeybees #valleybeekeeping http://www.valleybeekeeping.com

For a quarter-century, Ontario beekeepers have waged war against a tiny, devastating enemy that's reshaped their industry. We dive into the history of this fight and what has truly changed. #Beekeeping #VarroaMite #OntarioAgriculture #PestControl #Insects #honeybees #valleybeekeeping http://www.valleybeekeeping.com