A recent USDA report on the status of sweeteners shows that demand for honey in the US has never been higher. A boost from pandemic pantry-buying and honey’s status as a natural sweetener that is considered a healthier option have contributed to this trend. At the same time, domestic honey production has trended downwards, meaning imported honey is filling the gap.
What better way to experience the almond pollination than being dropped into the orchard with Sir David Attenborough via the BBC’s The Green Planet? In the final episode of the series, Sir David highlights the efforts undertaken by almond growers to help the planet-including by using cover crops!
As beekeepers gain experience and expand their apiaries, they may not be aware that they are eligible for federal support in multiple ways. This is especially true if they are generating income from honey sales or other apiary products. Luckily, the USDA now has a handy infographic of federal programs and resources that support beekeepers including insurance programs, disaster assistance, loans, grants, and disease testing.
When drought, severe weather, disease outbreaks, or other events occur, it can be overwhelming. The key to successfully utilizing federal insurance or other protection programs is by becoming familiar with them, and documenting the inventory and productivity of your apiary well!
Beekeepers with plans to expand their operation, or who have innovative ideas, can apply for federal grants or loans, the later of which have low-interest rates. Connecting with other beekeepers who have been through these processes before is a great way to get started. Check with your local association or state apiarist who might be able to connect you. The above infographic, and more information and resources, can be found on the USDA Pollinator website.
By: Grace Kunkel, Communications Manager, Project Apis m.
You may have heard the statement “all beekeeping is local”. This means that, depending on where you keep bees, your beekeeping actions for a particular month could be drastically different than what is appropriate for beekeepers located elsewhere! During April, some beekeepers might be busy with tasks like installing packages and raising queens, while others might be using the mild days to crack lids on their colonies even while there’s snow on the ground. Regardless of what other tasks you are trying to accomplish this April, we hope you will find time to fill out our annual Honey Bee Colony Loss and Management Survey!
UPDATE: Please consult the APHIS’ Asian Giant Hornet and Lookalikes Guide. If you believe the specimen is an Asian giant hornet, please report your potential sighting to the state apiary inspector.
You may also want to contact your State Plant Health Director.
Many of us have seen or experienced the therapeutic support that animals can give, especially for those with disabilities. Engaging with animals can promote healing, and it can even help build community. But did you know that beekeeping can provide emotional support and relief for veterans with PTSD and anxiety?
There are several organizations that teach veterans how to keep bees. Operated out of Sparks, Nevada, Bees4Vets helps military veterans and first responders living with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) through beekeeping in their local communities. The program’s goal is to support and train veterans and first responders so that they can develop the interest and skills necessary to participate in beekeeping as a hobby.