Beekeeping

Beekeeping

Beekeeping has been practiced in British Columbia for over 150 years. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, 2,300 beekeepers currently operate approximately 47,000 colonies as a hobby or a full or part-time business.

Climate in The Fraser Valley

Raising bees in the Fraser Valley can offer challenges because of  its climate. Winters are generally mild, but an excessive amount of rain and moisture can threaten the survival of your colony of bees. Air circulation is vital to keeping bee colonies dry. Building the apiary high off the ground and in a sheltered location will protect them from wind as well as rain. This will help to maintain the good health and productivity of your bee colony.  Warmer weather and proximity to agriculture will provide the necessary nectar and pollen to sustain your bees.

You should start your hive colony in mid-April to May, depending on how far north you live. Once the weather begins to get warm, your bees will need enough time to establish their hive and produce enough honey to help them to survive.

Temperature Limitations

Honey bees don’t fly when temperatures are below 14 C or above 38 C. Ideally, in order to have a productive apiary, a source of water such as a stream, river, or lake a short distance from your hive will provide hydration for  your bees. Honey bees will travel up to two miles to collect seasonally available nectar and pollen. Bonus! Any surrounding plants or crops will benefit from your bees.

Place your hive where it will benefit from the morning sunlight. Bees become active and productive when they are warmed by the morning sun. It is wise to protect your hive with a high fence or barrier if you live in a highly populated area.  A barrier forces your honey bees to fly upwards, over cars and people.

Benefits to the Environment

One colony of bees can provide enough pollination to drastically increase your surrounding vegetable, fruit and flower garden production. It may not be a big contribution, but it will benefit the environment. One hive can produce 30 pounds of honey in a year.  Providing honey and candles (from beeswax) for your family or to sell at your local farmer’s market.

Bylaws

If you’re considering backyard beekeeping, be aware that many municipalities have amended their bylaws to permit beekeeping. It is important for the beekeeper to know and understand the conditions and limitations included in the bylaws, as well as to be considerate of neighbors. At the end of the season, when colonies reach their maximum population size, bees become more defensive. Those who are allergic can experience a medical emergency.

What’s Needed

Beekeeping is an inexpensive hobby. You will merely need to invest in some equipment, the hive and bees, and protective clothing designed specifically for beekeeping. Honey bees do sting when agitated.  There are  necessary precautions to be taken. As well as the correct garb, moving slowly, being very gentle and practicing a calm demeanor, will mean you are rarely stung while tending your bee hives.

Uses

Bees are fascinating, hard working little creatures with a special culture all their own. Along with all we have heard about the many health benefits of their precious honey nectar, it tastes amazing! They also produce beeswax for our lovely, romantic or festive (non-toxic) candles.

Added to all the other marvels that bees produce, the value of  bees contribution to the environment in pollination of our orchards and crops can never be over emphasized!