Alberta
BEE NEWS Serving the interests of the beekeepers of Alberta since 1933
FEBRUAR Y 2024
Alberta Bee News
February 2024
In This Issue 03
President's Report
04 - 05 TPP Beekeeping Calendar Alberta Tech Transfer Program 06 - 09 We are still free of Tropilaelaps mites, but for how long? 10
Beekeeper of the Year Award
11
Advisory on the Applicability of FIFRA and FFDCA for Substances used to Control Varroa Mites in Beehives
12
REPORT: Economics of Beekeeping in Alberta 2022
13
Recipe of the Month
16 - 29 Classifieds
Board of Directors President: CURTIS MIEDEMA BOX 39 SITE 11 RR1 Barrhead, AB T7N1N2 780.206.4483 miedemahoney@gmail.com
NW Region: RENE LAROCQUE RR1 Busby AB T0G 0H0 T 780.818.4268 larocquerene@hotmail.com
Vice President: LORNE PRINS RR3 Station Main Lacombe AB / T4L 2N3 780.893.2337 lorne.prins@gmail.com
Director at Large: BEVAN FORD RR1 Irma AB / T0B 2H0 780.806.1310 bevanford1976@gmail.com
Peace Region/CHC Delegate: RYAN HICKS BOX 625 McLennan AB T0H 2L0 / 780.837.0648 hicksry82@gmail.com
Director at Large: DAN PALA BOX 368 Wembley AB T0H 3S0 / 780.832.5809 d.pala@telus.net
NE Central Region: PAUL GREIDANUS 56107 Range Road 245 Sturgeon County, AB T8R 0M1 grapiaries@gmail.com
Director at Large: AMBER OZERO 2 51516 Range Road 15, Parkland Co, AB, T7Y 2E8 albertahoney@gmail.com
Treasurer DUSTIN RYAN 5543 Township Rd 302, Water Valley, AB T0M 2E0 dustin@fallentimbermeadery.ca CHC Director: JEREMY OLTHOF RR1 Tees AB T0C 2N0 T 403.872.4607 Teesbeesinc@gmail.com
Alberta Beekeepers Commission Fiscal Year September 1 to August 31. Eligible Producers with 100 or more live colonies: Service Charge of $200.00 (membership fee) and $1.35 per colony (hive levy) plus GST per year. ‘Keeping In Touch’ Subscription to Alberta Bee News is open to anyone interested in the Alberta beekeeping industry $60 plus GST Alberta Bee News is published by the Alberta Beekeepers Commision. Deadline for submissions is the 15th of each month. Our GST Registration Number is 773740089RT0001. For further information please contact Alberta Beekeepers Commission 11434 - 168 Street, #102, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, T5M 3T9. Tel. 780-489-6949, Fax 780-487-8640. Canadian Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement #476579. ISSN 1191-4599. PM40010040 The opinions expressed in the articles printed in Alberta Bee News are those of the authors and not necessarily the Alberta Beekeepers Commission. Further we do not endorse any of the products, goods or services mentioned in this publication unless specifically stated. Articles are generally published as received.
Alberta Beekeepers Commission: 11434 - 168 Street, #102 Edmonton AB / T5M 3T9 T 780.489.6949 / F 780.487.8640 www.albertabeekeepers.ca CONNIE PHILLIPS, Executive Director C 780.289.5604 connie.phillips@albertabeekeepers.ca
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Alberta Bee News
February 2024
President's Report January has been a busy month for the ABC Board. We kicked off 2024 with a two-day board retreat that included a full day of strategic planning led by the team at Finley & Associates. We worked through all the valuable feedback provided by the membership during our AGM back in November. It was a productive session and we’re looking forward to finalising the new strategic plan that will guide the work of the board and staff over the next 2 to 3 years. Moving forward we want to focus on honey markets and information related to imports, stock replacement options, and most importantly hive health. The retreat was held at the Food Processing Development Centre in Leduc, and we were lucky enough to receive a guided tour through this state-of-the-art facility and check out the great facilities and services available to Alberta producers to help develop and scale up new food products. One other thing the board has continued to do this year is to invite shadow directors to join our meetings. It is a way that potential board members get a chance to participate in the board and meetings and share their insight and expertise without the full commitment of a director. This year’s shadow director is Lance Dubeau. Another major discussion we have been having is the direction of the Tech Transfer Program (TTP) and Colony Health Monitoring (CHM). This year the TTP hopes to sample more beekeepers then ever, and possibly incorporate some applied research at the same time. Planning is underway, and I look forward to sharing more information about this in the coming months. At the same time, I would like to encourage everyone to use the services of the TTP as their success relies on effectively servicing the membership. On January 15th, our ED and three board members, including myself, Jeremy Olthof and Amber Ozero had an opportunity to meet with ADM John Conrad. It was a great opportunity to present concerns and challenges the industry is facing as well as get an update on programs and direction the department of Agriculture and Irrigation are working on. ABC board and staff together with Finley & Associates working through the development of the new ABC strategic plan. The two-day event also included a guided tour of the Food Processing Development Centre.
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Curtis Miedema
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Alberta Bee News
February 2024
TTP Beekeeping Calendar Have you seen the TTP Beekeeping Calendar? We have created a general beekeeping calendar that can be referenced throughout the year to identify important beekeeping priorities each month! You can also check out the online version here: https://indd.adobe.com/view/0de73df4-8f3f-447c-af1a-f15f5bab96ab.
March – April Weather permitting, colonies can be fed a pollen supplement and/or sugar syrup if necessary. Now is an important time for supplementation, as summer bees are being reared. Pollen is important for stimulating early brood rearing, which will ensure your colony is ready for a busy spring! On a warm day, colonies should be monitored for Varroa mites and Nosema. High Varroa and Nosema levels in the spring may result in a slow colony build up, low honey production, and high overwinter mortality. Treatments should be applied if levels exceed the following economic thresholds*. Nosema: 1 million spores/bee Varroa: 1 mite/100 bees Colonies should be resampled post treatment to assess treatment efficacy. *Always follow label instructions.
January Start off the new year by learning something new or brushing up on something old! Winter is a great time to refine your disease identification skills, review your current management techniques, explore new ones, and create an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) plan!
May When daily temperatures are consistently above 10°C, winter wraps can be removed. If running doubles, brood chambers can be reversed. This will move the cluster to the bottom portion of the hive, giving the bees access to resources and space and helps to prevent swarming. It is also a good time to clean bottom boards and remove dead colonies.
February Winter is also a great time to start preparing for the upcoming bee season. Repairing and building new equipment, purchasing supplies (bees, equipment, treatments), and scouting out possible yard locations are all tasks that can be done in the off season and will make the busy summer much easier.
If the weather is warm enough, a thorough inspection of your colonies can be done. Check for signs of disease, queen issues, adequate food stores, or slow build-up. Chalkbrood and EFB will start to show up at this time of the year. Keep an eye out for clinical signs and intervene with management practices or treatment when necessary. Strong colonies can be split or a brood chamber can be added. Requeen any weak colonies or those that have an old queen. Dandelions will begin to bloom – an important early spring nectar source for honey bees! Bees should also be bringing in pollen from willow, and other flowering trees and shrubs. 4
Alberta Bee News
February 2024
June Keep a close eye on your colonies, as June when bees often swarm! Give them plenty of space, adding a second brood chamber or honey super as needed. Once a colony decides to swarm, it is very hard to change their minds!
September Continue to monitor for Varroa mites and other diseases. Consider a follow-up mite treatment if you are still seeing varroa mite levels above the fall economic threshold of 3% (3 mites /100 bees).
is
If your Nosema levels exceed the economic threshold of 1 million spores/bee, you may want to consider treating your colonies.
Canola will bloom in late June and is the major nectar source for honey bees here in Alberta. Continue to monitor for diseases and remove sick colonies from the yard to prevent diseases from spreading. Designating a site as a “hospital yard” is a good biosecurity practice, which will help prevent the spread of disease throughout your operation.
Colonies can be fed a 2:1 sugar syrup (70% sucrose solution). It is best to feed colonies a strong sugar syrup in the fall, as syrup with a high moisture content can cause dysentery. Only put strong colonies into winter. Weak colonies will most likely not survive, and you risk spreading diseases to your other colonies.
July
October – November
Continue to add honey supers as needed. July is when the peak honey production occurs in Alberta.
Finish feeding your bees in October. Remove and clean feeders so they are ready for the spring. Avoid feeding bees when temperatures drop below 10°C. The bees will not be able to adequately process the syrup and feeding increases the humidity in the hive, which can affect their ability to thermoregulate during those cold nights.
Under-supering (adding empty supers underneath previously added supers) encourages bees to fill empty supers rather than overfilling the oldest ones.
August
Wrap colonies with winter wraps and ensure there is good ventilation. Ventilation is key to overwintering success! If there is no way for moisture to escape, water will build up and may lead to colony mortality.
Winter bees begin to develop in early-mid August. It is critical to monitor and treat for Varroa mites and other diseases early so those important winter bees develop under healthy conditions.
December Rest and recuperate! Enjoy some of that hard earned honey!
High viral loads have been associated with high winter mortality. Since Varroa mite and virus levels are positively correlated, it is important to keep mite levels low, especially during this time. Often we see high viral loads persist even after mite levels have been decreased, so maintaining low mite levels throughout the year is critical. Remember: most treatments require honey supers to be removed prior to treatment application*. *Always follow treatment instructions!
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Alberta Bee News
February 2024
We are still free of Tropilaelaps mites, but for how long?
Should North American beekeepers worry about Tropilaelaps, the deadly Asian parasitic mite, or is it nothing to fear? Some think it will never get here, while others think warming temperatures will speed it along.
One creature patiently waiting in the emigration queue is Tropilaelaps (tro-pih-lay-laps), also called the Asian parasitic mite. As I listen to scuttlebutt, I sense many beekeepers understand this creature is eager to pounce, but few know the specifics. They sometimes ask, “How worried should we be?” Well, that’s a good question, and one many bee scientists are asking too.
Inside: Here’s the scoop on Tropilaelaps, the Asian parasitic mite. This tiny creature is a close relative of varroa, feeds on developing honey bees, and spreads deadly viruses. But for now, it’s still restricted to tropical climates outside of North and South America.
An assortment of unpleasantness The first piece of bad news? Tropilaelaps is a close relative of the varroa mite. Too close for comfort, you might say. Like varroa, the Tropilaelaps mite is an ectoparasite, attaching onto or burrowing into the outer surface of its host. Once affixed to a tender larva or pupa, the mite feeds on the developing bee.
Global trade can bring unwanted gifts Global trade has spoiled us. We can buy anything from anywhere, and before we can say Acarapis woodi, the orders plop onto our front porches. And if we don’t like what arrives, we can send it back. International shopping is so effortless, we seldom think about it.
The adult mites lay eggs inside a honey bee brood cell. When the immature nymphs eclose from their eggs, they feed immediately, weakening the honey bee brood and infecting them with viruses such as the infamous deformed wing virus. They also carry black queen cell virus and perhaps others. Does that sound familiar?
Unfortunately, the part about sending it back doesn’t work well for invasive species and the pests and pathogens they carry. Many items we didn’t order arrive beneath our radar, settling in our homelands attached to something else, hidden from view, or not recognized as a problem. Others sneak in despite our best efforts at monitoring and inspecting. Think varroa mites, for example. A single mistake can have lasting consequences.
By Rusty Barlow, Honey Bee Suite https://www.honeybeesuite.com/we-are-still-free-of-tropilaelaps-mites-but-for-how-long/. Reprinted with permission.
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February 2024
A super-fast reproduction rate
extensive defense mechanism against varroa. As we now know, they lack the genetic wiring to handle either the parasite or the associated viral diseases as well as Apis cerana.
The similarities between varroa and Tropilaelaps are disquieting, but their differences are not comforting either. Since the Tropilaelaps mite has a shorter life cycle, it can produce offspring at a faster rate than varroa. That means it can produce more mites per bee in a shorter time. In addition, a higher proportion of Tropilaelaps females (about 70%) produce at least one offspring, whereas the rate in varroa is about 50%. Further adding to their amazing fecundity, mating is optional. At least for some individuals, if they can’t find a mate, they just reproduce the parthenogenic way.1
Like varroa, Tropilaelaps also crossed species when Apis mellifera expanded into a territory ruled by Apis dorsata and Apis laboriosa. Apis dorsata (the giant or rock honey bee) is a native of South and Southeast Asia. The word “giant” is appropriate because this bee is larger than most other honey bee species, measuring about 0.7-0.8 inches (17-20 mm) long. The other common host is Apis laboriosa (the Himalayan giant honey bee) which is an astonishing 1.2 inches (3 cm) long.
In addition, Tropilaelaps are so small, most haven’t the strength to latch onto adult bees. Instead, they skip the lengthy “phoretic” period2 that varroa mites prefer (5-7 days when brood is present, 5-6 months without).3 Instead of riding around while slurping the fat bodies of adult bees, they simply get on with more reproduction.
Although there are four species of Tropilaelaps found within these Asian regions, as far as we know, only two parasitize Apis mellifera, T. mercedesae, and T. clareae. Of these two, T. mercedesae has a larger distribution and probably a greater risk of spreading.
Because they don’t dally on adult bees, most Tropilaelaps move into a new brood cell within 24 hours of leaving the first one, quickly infecting up to 90% of all brood cells in a hive. Some beekeepers who have both kinds of mites in their colonies report Tropilaelaps may rapidly outnumber varroa 25 to 1.4
According to Dr. Samuel Ramsey of the University of Colorado at Boulder, body size is a critical issue for European honey bees. All else being equal, a giant bee can withstand more parasitism than a peewee bee. In theory, at least, five mites munching on a large larva will do less damage than five mites chewing on a small one.
How a Tropilaelaps-infected colony dies
When varroa moved from A. cerana to A. mellifera, size wasn’t an issue because both species have roughly the same dimensions. But where the difference is great, as in A. dorsata vs. A. mellifera, the host’s size dictates the amount of damage a single mite can deliver. A large larva may survive an amount of parasitism that would kill a smaller one.
A sizeable problem
A Tropilaelaps-infected colony collapses in much the same way as a varroa-infected colony. A beekeeper may notice an overall population drop, an irregular brood pattern, perforated cell cappings, uncapped larvae dead in the cells, adult bees with shrunken abdomens, thoraces, or deformed wings, and listless or crawling bees. Many of these symptoms result from the viruses that both types of mites carry.
How to recognize a Tropilaelaps mite Although both varroa and Tropilaelaps are reddish-brown mites, they have radically different shapes. Varroa looks more crablike. The head is on a long side, much like a yummy blue crab. Conversely, Tropilaelaps has a beetle-style body, with the head at a narrow end.
In addition, Tropilaelaps-infected colonies may have many chewed larvae visible in the cells. These die and rot, causing a revolting dead-animal odor we don’t associate with varroa. This chewed look starts when the mites feed. Unlike varroa mites that use the same puncture wound over and over, Tropilaelaps open a fresh wound at every feeding. Tragically, the brood succumbs to being munched alive.
If you compare the ventral side of a varroa with the ventral side of a crab, you can see the eerie similarities. They are both arthropods, but not otherwise closely related. Mites, spiders, and lice are Arachnids (terrestrial creatures), whereas crabs, lobster, and crayfish are crustaceans (aquatic species). Despite their many differences, I can’t eat a crab without envisioning those enormous spiders that drape from the trees in my yard. (Then there was the grade school science teacher who said a crab was just a spider gone swimming.)
The sheer number of mites means the worker bees cannot keep up with removing all the dead bodies. At first, they may heave dead larvae onto the landing board, but after a while, the workers give up and allow the brood rot in place.5
Jumping from one species to another
You could confuse Tropilaelaps with the fly, Braula coeca, although the fly is quite a bit larger. Or you might confuse Tropilaelaps with the harmless pollen mite, Mellitiphis alvearius, except for its rounder shape.
Recall that varroa mites were originally parasites of Apis cerana, the Asian honey bee. Because the Asian honey bee and varroa coevolved over centuries, a balance of power developed between them. But when beekeepers introduced the European honey bee into Asian honey bee territory, the varroa mite crossed over.
Aside from a different physique, Tropilaelaps are tiny compared to varroa, perhaps a third as large. From end to end, Tropilaelaps
Unlike Asian honey bees, European honey bees don’t have an 7
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February 2024
extend about 1 mm, and from side to side they reach half that far, about 0.5 mm. Compare this to typical varroa mites that measure roughly 1.1 mm long and nearly 2 mm wide. (Remember, long and short sides do not correspond because of their body shapes.)
manage mite populations. This is similar to managing varroa with brood breaks except the intervals are shorter yet more frequent. Other control measures that work include the same miticides we now use for varroa. Those shown to work include acaricides containing formic acid, thymol, hop beta acids, fluvalinate, and amitraz. In addition, beekeepers in Asia have good results with sublimated sulfur.6
In both varroa and Tropilaelaps, the males are smaller than the females. Male and female Tropilaelaps have similar body shapes, but male varroa do not resemble their females. Instead, the males are almost round and measure about 0.7 mm by 0.7 mm.
How fast is Tropilaelaps spreading?
You can see Tropilaelaps after a powdered sugar shake. Just remember they are tiny and move fast, so you need to be quick, too.
Tropilaelaps prefer tropical and semi-tropical environments, such as exist in their native Southeast Asia. Because these areas are warm year-round, the hives produce brood year-round. So far, the mites have not spread into cooler areas that don’t support continuous bee brood production.
Rates of colony failure Most of us have noticed that an untreated colony infected with varroa mites collapses in one to two years. The differences in survival times are likely related to brood breaks, swarming, or perhaps various levels of genetic resistance. But the colony gradually weakens until it finally folds, often in the fall or winter.
Although the distribution of Tropilaelaps has increased in the last fifty years, the expansion has not been dramatic. For now, temperatures cool enough to halt bee brood production prevent them from spreading. However, the thought that keeps beekeepers awake at night is a mite that could survive longer than 36 hours without bee brood. How much farther could they spread if they could go 48 hours without brood? Or 60?
We’ve learned to recognize various characteristics of a varroaweakened colony. We might notice a decreasing bee population, holes in brood cappings, chewed cappings, and mite feces in brood cells. We may see an abnormal brood pattern, deformed wings, shrunken abdomens, or dead mites on the bottom board. In spite of the damage, the queen may persist, and you may see capped brood and honey stores.
So far, Tropilaelaps have migrated to Kenya, Papua New Guinea, Myanmar, Pakistan, the Philippines, South Korea, Vietnam, and Afghanistan.
With untreated varroa, a backyard beekeeper may even get a honey crop before his colony gives up the ghost. But a honey bee colony with Tropilaelaps has a much shorter shelf life, more on the order of several months. Left untreated, a colony with Tropilaelaps would be unlikely to produce honey or even make it to the fall, perhaps collapsing during its first summer.
It is not clear how Tropilaelaps spreads in nature. Because only about 3-4% of adult mites attach themselves to adult bees, only a small percentage move between colonies using that method. Regardless of the low rate, however, robbing or drifting bees could easily move those individuals to other colonies. On a local scale, beekeepers disperse mites when they make splits or move frames between hives.
How do beekeepers treat these mites?
A potential addition to beekeeper angst
Successful management of any organism depends on finding its weak spot. The most glaring weakness of Tropilaelaps is its dependence on a constant supply of bee brood. Without brood, the mites starve because, unlike varroa mites, they don’t feed on adult bees.
Oddly, I find beekeepers have a lackadaisical attitude toward this new mite. Many argue that we already have widely available mite controls, we’ve developed hygienic bees, and we practice management techniques such as brood breaks — all things that can help control both varroa and Tropilaelaps.
Some beekeepers speculate that this single weakness has slowed Tropilaelaps distribution around the globe, and it may be the reason we don’t yet have them in the Americas. Since the mites cannot live longer than about 36 hours without bee brood, they can’t survive on shipped queens or in bee packages. Unless brood is present, Tropilaelaps simply can’t go along for the ride.
Others believe that because Tropilaelaps cannot survive over 36 hours without honey bee brood, it would be impossible to distribute them around the globe. But that’s naïve, like saying another pandemic couldn’t happen. All it would take is one small mutation to negate that problem, and one mutation isn’t hard to imagine in a constantly reproducing population of billions.
For now, jurisdictions with Tropilaelaps don’t allow shipping or receiving of bees with brood, and shipments of queens and packages are subject to two-day holding periods to assure none of the mites can survive.
Another group of beekeepers argues that we already have enough to worry about, so why bother? Well, that’s the truth. But not considering the possibility won’t make Tropilaelaps go away. Thinking is free, and this is a good topic to ponder.
For the same reason, regular brood breaks are the best control for Tropilaelaps. By sequestering the queen long enough to assure periodic two-day broodless periods, beekeepers can successfully 8
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The recent statistics on colony losses are sobering. Overall, we’re not doing great with the problems we already have, so I can’t imagine we could add another mite and not notice. Especially one that breeds faster, moves like lightning, and destroys a greater percentage of colonies than varroa. Surely, the arrival of Tropilaelaps would not improve our colony loss rate even if we prepare — let alone ignore — the possibility.
Notes and references
Don’t panic, but stay informed
2.
1. de Guzman LI, Phokasem P, Khongphinitbunjong K, Frake
Although I agree we shouldn’t panic, I think we should take the threat seriously enough to educate ourselves about it. There’s no reason not to learn the signs of an infestation, the mite’s life cycle, how it impacts honey bees, and the control methods that are now working.
3. 4.
The fact remains that the Tropilaelaps mite plays nasty with honey bees, so anyone who cares about Apis mellifera should learn and prepare — at least mentally — for its arrival. If we sweep this mite under the carpet, if we “wait and see” because it’s not here today, we may pay dearly tomorrow.
5.
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In an apiary ruled by Tropilaelaps, any beekeeper who is “a little late” with mite meds or brood breaks won’t be able to squeak by — they breed too fast for that. But if I’m wrong and Tropilaelaps turns out to be “just another mite,” then I will celebrate. Sometimes it’s best to be wrong.
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AM, & Chantawannakul P. (2018). Successful reproduction of unmated Tropilaelaps mercedesae and its implication on mite population growth in Apis mellifera colonies. Journal of Invertebrate Pathology, 153, 35-37. https://doi. org/10.1016/j.jip.2018.02.010 Here, I use the term “phoretic” loosely. If the mites are doing more than just riding, i.e. they are also eating, phoretic may be the wrong term. However, the word is commonly used to describe varroa mites that are riding on adult bees regardless of feeding status, as I’ve used it here. https://bee-health.extension.org/varroa-mite-reproductivebiology/ https://www.mdbeekeepers.org/product/dr-ramseys-miteresearch/ Ashley N, Mortensen AN, Burleson S, Chelliah G, Johnson K, Schmehl DR, and Ellis JD. 2022. Tropilaelaps Mite Tropilaelaps Spp. Delfinado & Baker (Arachnida: Mesostigmata: Laelapidae). University of Florida, IFAS, Entomology and Nematology Department, Featured Creatures, EENY 568. Pettis, J. S., Rose, R., & Chaimanee, V. (2016). Chemical and cultural control of Tropilaelaps mercedesae mites in honeybee (Apis mellifera) colonies in Northern Thailand. PLoS ONE, 12(11). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0188063
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Alberta Bee News
February 2024
Beekeeper of the Year Award Recipient, Ron & Patti Greidanus of Greidanus Honey Bee Farm Award Sponsor
Ron & Patti Greidanus of Greidanus Honey Bee Farm holding the award for 2023 Beekeeper of the Year.
T
ending some 25 million bees across the province, Alberta beekeepers are an incredibly dedicated and hardworking group of people. They’re a crucial part of Alberta’s agriculture industry. These committed members of our community, and the bees they keep, play a key role in crop pollination,
to producing high-quality, 100% pure Canadian honey and beeswax. While Ron could have been successful in many other careers such as engineering, shortly after turning 25 he started his own beekeeping operation. Taking immense pride in his craft, Ron strives to maintain the highest standards of quality and has become known as the honey bee expert in his local community. This well-travelled beekeeper has travelled around the world nearly twice and currently runs a 3,600 hive operation, along with a small ranch. Ron promotes excellence in beekeeping, a commitment to education and learning, community engagement, and good governance.
The award for Beekeeper of the Year is presented to an individual, couple, or group who has consistently demonstrated commitment, leadership, passion, and dedication. The award acknowledges and celebrates the valuable contributions that the recipient/s have made to the beekeeping industry in Alberta. As the largest producer of honey in Canada, there is an abundance of excellent beekeepers in this province.
He has tirelessly helped others get into beekeeping and supported them. He is willing to share knowledge with others, innovate, and give generously of his time.
In November 2023, the ABC was pleased to present the 2023 Beekeeper of the Year Award to Ron & Patti Greidanus of Greidanus Honey Bee Farm. Ron Greidanus has a long history of beekeeping in Alberta. With over 40 years of beekeeping experience, Ron and Patti have built a thriving business dedicated
Congratulations Ron and Patti and family on being awarded the 2023 Beekeeper of Year Award!
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February 2024
Advisory on the Applicability of FIFRA and FFDCA for Substances used to Control Varroa Mites in Beehives Applicable in the US. Source: United States Environmental Protection Agency https://www.epa.gov/pollinator-protection/advisory-applicability-fifra-and-ffdca-substances-used-control-varroa-mites
Purpose: EPA is issuing this advisory to clarify what pesticide products and active ingredients are registered under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) to control varroa mites (Varroa destructor) in beehives, what tolerances or exemptions under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) are applicable, and how the Agency views use of unregistered products to treat beehives for one’s own personal use. EPA is also affirming that use of registered pesticides must comply with FIFRA labeling requirements, that pesticide residues in honey must comply with any federal tolerances under FFDCA, and that states may have more restrictive requirements that must be followed as well. It is a violation of FIFRA if a person uses registered pesticides in a manner that is not in accordance with label instructions. Currently, EPA has registered 16 pesticide products, covering about 10 active ingredients, that can be used on beehives to control varroa mites. In registering these pesticides products, EPA has conducted comprehensive evaluations and determined the products will not cause unreasonable adverse effects to human health or the environment. Using unregistered pesticides could result in a violation of FFDCA, if there are residues in the honey or other edible bee products (e.g., honeycomb, pollen) that are not covered by a tolerance or exemption under FFDCA. The sale or distribution of adulterated honey is a violation of FFDCA. EPA remains committed to supporting he compliance and enforcement efforts by states with primary enforcement authority to ensure compliance with FIFRA requirements.
MORE INFO: • Why is EPA issuing an advisory now? • What are varroa mites and why are they such a concern for the beekeeping community? • What does it mean to be a registered pesticide under FIFRA? • What does it mean to be exempt from the requirements of FIFRA as a “minimum risk pesticide”? • What does it mean to have a tolerance or tolerance exemption under FFDCA? • Does an exemption from the registration requirements under FIFRA automatically mean it is exempted under FFDCA from the requirements for a tolerance, and vice versa? • Are there pesticides registered under FIFRA that beekeepers can use to control varroa mites in their beehives? • Are there tolerances or tolerance exemptions set under FFDCA that cover the residues of the pesticide products listed in Table 1? • Is it a violation of FIFRA to use a registered pesticide in a manner that is not consistent with its label? • Is it a violation of FIFRA for an individual to use unregistered products on their beehives (i.e., for their own personal use)? • Is it a violation of FIFRA or FFDCA to sell or distribute the honey or other edible beehive products (e.g., pollen, honeycomb) harvested from beehives treated with unregistered products? • Are there state pesticide laws that are different from FIFRA that may be applicable? • What other efforts is EPA engaged in to help beekeepers address the varroa mite issue?
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February 2024
REPORT: Economics of Beekeeping in Alberta 2022 Source: https://open.alberta.ca/publications/2291-6997
Executive summary The regression results show that all the variables conformed to the positive a-priori expectations. Number of hives operated was significant at all levels of significance (one per cent, five per cent and 10 per cent) with an elasticity of 0.56. This means that a one per cent increase in number of hives will correspondingly increase the total value of production by 0.56 per cent. This high percentage increase relative to other variables suggests that number of hives operated is an important factor of honey production in Alberta ceteris paribus (i.e., holding other variables constant). Total variable costs were also found to be significant at both the five and 10 per cent levels with an elasticity of 0.46 but not at the one per cent level. Sugar feeding costs, labour costs and total capital costs were not significant at all levels of significance. The Adjusted R Squared results show that the explanatory variables jointly accounted for about 94 per cent of the total variation in value of production of these honey producers.
The beekeeping sector is a vital component of the agricultural industry in Alberta. Costs and returns for beekeeping in Alberta have been monitored by the Economics Section of Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation since the early 1970s. In winter 2022-2023, 71 beekeepers across the province were surveyed to obtain their 2022 production costs and returns information. 57 out of these 71 beekeepers produced only honey, nine (9) primarily rented their hives for pollination and extracted honey as well and the remaining five (5) primarily produced honey and sold bees as queens, bee nucs and hives. The largest beekeeper in the study sample operated 14,000 hives and the smallest had five hives. These 71 beekeepers managed a total of 112,423 colonies, representing 37 per cent of Alberta’s total number of colonies in 2022. This report provides details on total value of production (bulk honey sales, other honey sales and inventory and miscellaneous income) for the three beekeeping enterprises (honey, pollination and bee sales). It also provides estimates of cash costs, operator and family labour, capital costs and management indicators (gross margin, return to unpaid labour, return to investment and return to equity).
Those who provided pollination services primarily had lower costs and made slightly more money than those who produced only honey. Based on the results, pollinators surveyed in the northeast, northwest and peace region managed more hives compared with those in the south and central region. In addition, they had lower investment costs and made more money compared with those in the south and central region.
The report also contains historical data and trends on number of beekeepers, number of colonies, colonies per beekeeper, honey production, honey prices and farm cash receipts in Alberta and Canada over the past 20 years (i.e., from 2003 to 2022). In addition, it provides statistics on honey and bee exports and imports. The report shows a comparison of honey production costs and returns for the study sample of 57 honey producers by region and by size of operation. All the management indicators estimated were positive for the study sample of 57 honey producers. Only the gross margins (gross revenue less cash costs) were positive for all the various groups classified by region and by size of operation.
In total, 20 beekeepers reported revenues from selling bees (queens, nucs and hives); however, based on the proportion of bee sales to total value of production, only five beekeepers were selected to benchmark the costs and returns for the bee sales enterprise. The report shows that because of the low average honey yield per hive, all the estimated net returns or management indicators were negative for this group of beekeepers.
A multiple regression was conducted using the data from the 57 honey participants to determine the impact of sugar feeding costs, total labour costs, total variable costs, total capital costs and number of hives operated on the total value of production. The a-priori expectations for sugar feeding costs, total labour costs, total variable costs, total capital costs and number of hives operated were assumed to be positive, implying that an increase or decrease in any of the variables will lead to a corresponding increase or decrease in the total value of production of these honey producers.
The information presented in the report can be used for several purposes including program evaluation and policy development for the beekeeping industry in Alberta. It could also serve as a guide for producers.
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Alberta Bee News
February 2024
Servings: 25 bites
Recipe of the Month
INGREDIENTS • 2 cup old fashioned oatmeal • 1/2 cup shredded unsweetened coconut • 1/2 cup honey • 1/2 cup peanut butter (see notes) • 1/4 cup ground flaxseed or hemp seeds • 1/2 cup Valentine M&Ms, coarsely chopped or crushed
6 Ingredient
Valentine
Energy Bites
INSTRUCTIONS 1. Mix all ingredients together until combined in a medium-sized bowl. 2. Scoop out 1 Tablespoon of batter at a time. Press and squeeze the batter together with your hands then shape/roll into balls (see notes). ***OR press the mixture into a bread pan lined with plastic wrap, refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or freeze for 1/2 hour), then remove the batter from the pan and cut into bite-sized squares.
Recipe by Happi Homemade with Sammi Ricke
https://happihomemade.com/valentine-energy-bites/ This healthy no bake recipe is easy and quick to prepare. Oatmeal, flaxseed (or hemp seeds), peanut butter, M&Ms, honey, and finely shredded coconut make up these homemade gluten free goodies. Make these raw bites for kids and adults alike. Think monster cookie, but with 5 simple whole food ingredients! These Valentine treats are the perfect classroom party snack or dessert.
3. Store bites in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer until ready to eat!
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www.albertabeekeepers.ca
Alberta Bee News
February 2024
Canadian Honey Council
Online Training for Apiary Workers Honey Bee Learning For You The Canadian Honey Council e-learning offers professional development opportunities for industry workers and those interested in joining the industry. Each of the e-learning modules you will encounter focuses on a particular aspect of honey bee care, maintenance and production. The modules include photos, video, audio, glossaries and reference links to enhance your learning.
chclearning.ca
Monthly Update 2023 CHM Annual Report
WE’LL FIND THE WAY FORWARD TOGETHER.
The 2023 Colony Health Monitoring Program annual report is now available! It can be viewed on the ABC website in the TTP section under Colony Health Monitoring. https://www.albertabeekeepers.ca/education/colony-healthmonitoring-reports/
Website Updates New updates have been made to the TTP website pages in order to improve layout and functionality. Go check it out!
ABC Strategic Planning Session In January the TTP participated in the ABC board strategic planning session.
AFSC has your back with a personalized portfolio of crop insurance, farm income stabilization, and lending products to protect you from the unexpected … and keep you moving forward.
BeeTech
The TTP is excited to attend BeeTech February 8-10. Tech Team Lead Lynae Ovinge will be giving an informative talk on How to Kill Hives.
AFSC.ca
@abttp | Alberta Tech Transfer Program
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Alberta Bee News
February 2024
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www.albertabeekeepers.ca
February 2024
Alberta Bee News
Classifieds
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
PLEASANT VALLEY HONEY LTD.(SW 15-46-27-W4 near Falun, AB) requires: Ten APIARY TECHNICIANS (NOC 8431) with a minimum of 2 years (seasons) experience working on a Canadian style commercial apiary with employment March thru December 2024 $15.65 - $18/hr to start depending on experience (40+ hrs/wk); Duties include: caring for honeybee colonies in the appropriate manner; coordinating the production of replacement bees and equipment; recognising, reporting, monitoring hive health issues and applying appropriate treatment/ controls; harvest and fill honey barrels and containers; supervise small teams of workers; driving and daily maintenance of vehicles; operate and maintain other apiary equipment; conduct bee yard maintenance; keep some field production records. A motor vehicle operator's licence with no serious infractions, recognised by the Province of Alberta and major insurance companies is an asset. . All wages are negotiable based on experience and productivity. Applicants must be able to work in the presence of honey bees. All positions may require some evening, night & weekend work. All applicants must be in good physical condition and able to work in a team environment. Ability to speak English is an asset. Contact Ryan Olthof in person at the farm to apply.
BUSY BEE FARM LTD. near Hay Lakes, Alberta, requires 8 APIARY LABOURERS (NOC 8431) with a minimum of 1 year experience in commercial beekeeping, wages ranging from $16.50 - $18.00/hour; Also required is 16 APIARY TECHNICIANS (NOC 8431) with a minimum of three years of experience in Canadian commercial beekeeping, wages ranging from $18.00 $26.00/hour. All positions are fulltime (45+ hours/week) for the February 1st – October 31st, 2024 season and involve the work and care of honeybees for honey production and pollination services. All applicants should be physically fit and able to perform work in a team environment. Having a valid driver’s license and the ability to speak English will be considered an asset. Wages are negotiable depending on experience. OnFarm accommodations are available. Applications can be emailed to Mike deJong at busybee@telus. net Busy Bee Farm Ltd, 48549 Range Road 224, Hay Lakes, Alberta T0B 1W0
Technician with all duties working with bees. Some weekend and evening work if needed. Physically demanding work (40 hours + a week). Both positions start February 1-November 15, 2024. Staff accomm available. Contact Dan Pala, 721042 Hwy 724. Wembley, AB d.pala@telus. net, phone 780-832-5809, fax 780-766-3009
PALA’S VITAMIN HONEY FARM in Wembley, AB for the 2024 season is seeking 4 positions for APIARY TECHNICIAN (NOC 8431), $16.00.$22.00/hr with 2 years experience minimum, in a commercial Apiary. Wages depend on experience. Major duties: knowledge of hive management, disease diagnoses and prevention, weekend work and evenings. Also require 4 positions for an APIARY WORKER (NOC 8431), $15.65 - $18.50/hr experience required. Major duties include assisting Apiary
Serving the Industry since 1959 Family Owned and Operated
MIGHTY PEACE HONEY Requires one APIARY SUPERVISOr, NOC 8252, for full time (40+ hrs/ wk, $20-$24/hr depending on experience) year-round employment starting in March 2024. Must have a minimum of 5 seasons working fulltime on a Canadian style commercial operation. Duties include caring for honeybee colonies in the appropriate manner, coordinating the production of replacement bees & equipment; recognizing, reporting, monitoring hive health issues and applying appropriate treatment/ controls; supervise extracting lines; supervise small to medium teams of workers; drive (including std transmission & medium duty trucks) & daily maintain vehicles; operate & maintain other apiary equipment (including forklifts & pumps and extracting equipment); conduct bee yard maintenance; keep field and/or production records; Accommodation available. We are located at 833071 RR231 Grimshaw, AB Canada. Please contact Mighty Peace Honey PO Box 1759 Grimshaw, AB Canada T0H 1W0. Rob 780 332 4862 or Fax 780 332 4822 or email mightypeacehoney@gmail.com
Port Hope 5029 County Road 2, Port Hope, ON L1A 3V5 T: 905 753 2623
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100% Canadian Made Woodenware & Stainless Steel The quality of our products sets us apart from the rest! 100% of our woodenware and many of our stainless steel extractors, clarifiers, and bottling tanks are also custom manufactured in Canada. 36” Gravity Clarifier
Bottling Tank 480 kg
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Bottling Tank 90kg
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Alberta Bee News
February 2024
Proud to be your 1st choice for Kona Italian & Carniolan queens Due to high demand, the majority of our spring production is booked. Limited quantities may become available. Call to inquire. Thank you for your understanding.
Call the Alberta Honey Producer’s Co-op: 780-960-8010
info@konaqueen.com | www.konaqueen.com |
@konaqueenhawaii |
@konaqueenhi
Classifieds EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
MIGHTY PEACE HONEY Requires Six APIARY TECHNICIANS, NOC 8431, for full time (40+ hrs/ wk) employment ($15.65 - $20/hr depending on experience) February thru October 2024. Must have a minimum of 2 seasons working fulltime on a Canadian style commercial operation. Duties include caring for honeybee colonies in the appropriate manner, coordinating the production of replacement bees & equipment; recognizing, reporting, monitoring hive health issues and applying appropriate treatment/ controls; harvest & package honey & beeswax; supervise small teams of workers; drive (including std transmission & medium duty trucks) & daily maintain vehicles; operate & maintain other apiary equipment (including forklifts & pumps); conduct bee yard maintenance; keep some field and/or production records; Accommodation available. We are located at 833071 RR231 Grimshaw, AB Canada. Please contact Mighty Peace Honey PO Box 1759 Grimshaw, AB Canada T0H 1W0. Rob 780 332 4862 or Fax 780 332 4822 or email andrewdicksonbeekeeper@gmail.com
SWEETHEART POLLINATORS/JANEIL ENT INC Sweetheart Pollinators/Janeil Ent Inc located 7 km SW of Eatonia, Sask, has the following positions available for the 2024 season. 5 APIARY TECHNICIANS, NOC 85100 with a minimum of 2 years experience in a Canadian Commercial Apiary. Full time seasonal employment (40 + hrs per week) from March 2024 to September 2024. Wage start at $18.00 to $20.00 per hour (depending on experience) with a possible bonus. Housing available. Duties will include: caring for honeybee colonies, moving bees into and out of pollination fields, monitoring and controlling bee health, keeping all required records, honey harvesting and extraction, construction of new equipment, repairing vehicles and other equipment, driving of vehicles, operate and maintain other apiary equipment. Some evening and weekend work required. Applicants must be in good physical condition (able to lift at least 70 pounds) A valid drivers license is required. Please contact Sweetheart Pollinators
/Janeil Ent Inc. PO Box 155, Eatonia, Sask. S0L 0Y0 (306)463-8864 or email to: sweetheart.pollinators@sasktel.net
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GOLDEN EARS APIARIES INC in Mission, BC, is seeking 11 APIARY SUPERVISORS at $15.21/ hr, starting Feb 1,2024 until Oct. 31/2024, working 40+ hrs/week. Apiary Supervisors must have a minimum of 3 seasons working full time (40+hr/wk) in a Canadian style commercial beekeeping operation, and must have a good understanding of honeybee management and have the ability to independently assess hive health and make decisions regarding individual hive management. All positions do require some evening, night and weekend work. All applicants should be able to work in a team environment. English is an asset as well as a valid driving license. Work will be in southern BC ( Fraser Valley). Contact Carolyn Shipley at jmcshipley@shaw.ca.
www.albertabeekeepers.ca
February 2024
Classifieds
Alberta Bee News
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
POELMAN APIARIES LTD.located near Fort Macleod, AB (102007A Range Rd 254) has the following positions available for the 2024 season: 7 FARM SUPERVISORS (SKILLED WORKER, NOC 8252) with a minimum of 5 years(seasons) experience working at a Canadian apiary. Employment needed from March through October 2024; wage starting at $17.50 + (depending on exp. with possible bonus) (40 + hrs/week). Duties will include: caring for honeybee colonies in the appropriate manner; coordinating the production of replacement bees and equipment; recognizing, reporting, monitoring hive health issues and applying appropriate treatment/controls; harvest and fill honey barrels and containers; supervise small teams of workers; driving of vehicles; operate and maintain other apiary equipment; conduct bee yard maintenance. 16 APIARY TECHNICIAN (LOW SKILL WORKER, NOC 8431) with a minimum of 1-2 years experience. Employment needed from April through November 2024; wage starting at $15.65- $17.50 (depending on exp. with a possible bonus) (40 + hrs/week). Duties will include: caring for honeybee colonies in the appropriate manner; assisting Technicians with bees and equipment; assisting with harvesting honey; assisting with the bee yard and equipment maintenance. 6 GENERAL FARM WORKER, APIARY LABOURERS (LOW SKILL WORKER, NOC 8431) experience is an asset but will be trained. Employment needed for April through November 2024; wage starting at $16.52 per/hour (with possible bonus) (40 + hrs/week). Duties will include: Supering and harvesting honey, cleaning honey extraction and storage equipment, barrel moving prep, filling and storage, manufacture and assemble and maintain hive equipment, and bee yard maintenance. All wages are negotiable based on experience and productivity. Housing is available. Applicants must be able to work in the presence of honeybees. All positions may require some evening, night & weekend work. All applicants must be in good physical condition and able to work in a team environment. Email resumes to pollenpal@gmail.com attention Poelman Apiaries or fax to 403-687-2410 or mail to Box 1887 Fort Macleod, AB T0L 0Z0.
a good understanding of colony management, bee equipment maintenance & honey extracting/ beeswax processing. Apiary workers can expect on average 45+ hrs/week. Accom. available. Some evening & night work will be required. Main work location is Tegart Apiaries Honey Farms is located 2.5 miles from Fairview, Alberta (30024 TWP RD 820). Position may require travel to Harrison Mills, B. C. for spring and fall hive work (small travel allowance and accommodations provided) For more details or to apply, contact Dan Tegart directly at 780 835 2115 or tegarthoney@ telus.net; PO Box 904, Fairview, AB T0H 1L0
TEES BEES INC. require Three APIARY TECHNICIANS (NOC 8431) with a minimum of 2-3 years (seasons) experience working on a Canadian style commercial apiary in the min. capacity of Apiary Worker or General Farm Worker with employment March thru October 2024 ($16.52-$20/hr depending on exp. with possible bonus) (40+ hrs/wk); Duties include: caring for honeybee colonies in the appropriate manner; coordinating the production of replacement bees and equipment; recognizing, reporting, monitoring hive health issues and applying appropriate treatment/controls; harvest and fill honey barrels and containers; supervise small teams of workers; driving and daily maintenance of vehicles; operate and maintain other apiary equipment; conduct bee yard maintenance; keep some field production records. A motor vehicle operator's licence with no serious infractions, recognized by the Province of Alberta and major insurance companies is required. Nine APIARY WORKERS (NOC 8431) with a minimum of 1 year (season) experience and with employment March thru October 2024 ($16.52$19/hr depending on exp. with possible bonus) (40+ hrs/wk); Duties include caring for honeybee colonies in the appropriate manner; assisting Technicians with bees and equipment; assisting with harvesting honey; assisting with the bee yard and equipment maintenance. All wages are negotiable based on experience and productivity. Applicants must be able to work in the presence of honey bees. All positions may require some evening, night & weekend work. All applicants must be in good physical condition and able to work in a team environment. Ability to speak English is an asset. Contact Jeremy Olthof at 23318-Hwy 50, Tees, AB; mail to RR1, Tees, AB T0C 2N0; or email at teesbeesinc@gmail.com.
TEGART APIARIES is seeking 3 APIAIRY WORKERS with min 2+ years experience at a Canadian Commercial apiary operation. (at $15.65 - $16.40 hr with possible bonus) for July 10, 2024 to November 15, 2024. All applicants must be in good physical condition and able to work in a team. Successful applicants must be accustomed to working with honey bees & have
MCW APIARIES has two positions available for APIARY TECHNICIAN (NOC8431) starting February 1st to October 31st 2024. Must have at least three years of commercial beekeeping experience with wage staring at $19.50/hr, accommodation available if required, must have a valid driver's license. Hours are 45 hours per week with some weekends and evenings. Duties include doing and overseeing such tasks as feeding, medicating, spring brood management, queen rearing, making nucs, honey harvesting and moving hives. Contact Mike by fax at 780 624 9408 or mcwap@abnorth.com. We are located at 84172 Range Rd 204 East of Peace River near the hamlet of St Isidore. MCW APIARIES h has three positions available for Apiary Workers (NOC 85100), starting February 1st to October 31st, 2024. Must have at least one year of experience and a valid driver's license. Accommodation available if required. Wages starting at $17.00/hr with some evening and weekend work. Hours are 45 hours per week with some evening and weekends, the job involves doing such tasks as feeding, edicating, honey harvesting and moving hives. Contact Mike by fax at 780 624 9408 or mcwap@abnorth. com. We are located at 84172 Range Rd 204. East of Peace River near the hamlet of St Isidore. MCW APIARIES has one full time BEEKEEPING TECHNICIAN (NOC 84120) position available starting February 1st 2024. Must have at least 5 years of commercial beekeeping experience with wage starting at $20 per hour. Accommodation is available if required and must have a valid drivers license. Hours range from 40 to 45 hours per week depending on the time of year with some evenings and weekends. Duties include feeding, medicating, hive management, equipment maintenance, making Nucs, Honey harvesting and moving hives. Contact Mike Williams at mcwap@abnorth.com or 780 618 3507. We are located at 84172 Range Rd 204 East of Peace River near the hamlet of St Isidore.
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SWAN APIARIES are seeking workers for the 2024 season, February 20- October 31 2024, 12 APIARY WORKERS (NOC 8431) and 2 APIARY TECHNICIANS(NOC 8253) in the Westlock area. Applicants for apiary worker must have a minimum 1 year (season) working fulltime on a Canadian style commercial apiary operation as an Apiary Worker. The position is full time (40+ hrs/ week) from mid February to mid October. Major duties involve all aspects of bee colony operations under the supervision of an Apiary Technician. The rate of pay is $15.65 - $16/hr (depending on experience) for apiary worker. Applicants for APIARY TECHNICIANS (NOC 8253) must have a minimum of 3 years experience on a Canadian style commercial apiary ($17 - $19/hr depending on experience). The position is full time (40+ hrs/ week) from mid February to mid October. Major duties involve all aspects of bee colony operations
February 2024
Classifieds
Alberta Bee News
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
with the assistance of the Apiary Workers. The ability to operate and maintain equipment utilized in the beekeeping industry and keep accurate records for monitoring hive health is essential to the position. The positions are full time and may require evening and weekend work(45hrs+/wk) . Applicants must be in good physical condition as it is physically demanding work. Staff accommodations available. A valid driver’s licence will be considered an asset. Apply with resume to Hendrik Greidanus at Swan Apiaries, 520 4ST SW High River, T1V 1B6 or fax resume to 403-652-7683
1 year experience on a Canadian style commercial apiary ($15.65/hr). The position is full time (40+ hrs/week) from late March to late October. Major duties involve all aspects of bee colony operations under the supervision of an Apiary Technician. A motor vehicle Operator’s license that is recognized by the province of Alberta and major insurance companies and the ability to speak English are considered assets. We require 10 Apiary Labourers (NOC 8431 - $15.65/hr) with a minimum of 1 year experience on a Canadian style commercial apiary. The position is full time (40+ hrs/week) from beginning of June to late Oct. Major duties involve all aspects of harvesting honey and processing beeswax. The ability to speak English is considered an asset. Apply with resume to Grace Strom at The Greidanus Honey Mill, Box 5504, High River, AB T1V 1M6 or fax resume to 403-652-7683
wages are negotiable based on experience and productivity. All positions may require some night and weekend work. All applicants must be able to work in the presence of bees, be in good physical condition and able to work in a team environment. On farm housing is available. Resumes: rongreidanus@gmail.com or via mail to: Greidanus Honey Bee Farm c/o 1005271 Alberta LTD, Box 1581, Stettler, Alberta, T0C 2L0
GREIDANUS HONEY MILL We require 5 APIARY WORKERS (NOC 8431) with a minimum of 1 year experience on a Canadian style commercial apiary to work in Northern Saskatchewan ($15.65/hr) in 2024. The position is full time (40+ hrs/week) from early March to late October. Major duties involve all aspects of bee colony operations under the supervision of an Apiary Technician. A motor vehicle Operator’s license that is recognized by the province of Alberta and major insurance companies and the ability to speak English are considered assets. Staff accommodations are available in Northern Saskatchewan. Production bonus may apply. We are seeking workers for the 2024 beekeeping season near High River, AB. All positions will be available on a seasonal basis. Production bonus may apply. All applicants must be physically fit and willing to work in a team environment. Staff accommodations are available. We require 4 APIARY TECHNICIANS (NOC 8253) with a minimum of 3 years experience on a Canadian style commercial apiary ($17-$19/hr depending on experience). The position is full time (40+ hrs/ week) from mid February to mid October. Major duties involve all aspects of bee colony operations with the assistance of the Apiary Workers. The ability to operate and maintain equipment utilized in the beekeeping industry and keep accurate records for monitoring hive health is essential to the position. A motor vehicle Operator’s license that is recognized by the province of Alberta and major insurance companies is required for these positions. The ability to speak & write in English are assets. We require 4 Apiary Workers (NOC 8431) with a minimum of 1 year experience on a Canadian style commercial apiary ($15.65 - $16.50/hr depending on experience). The position is full time (40+ hrs/week) from mid February to mid October. Major duties involve all aspects of bee colony operations under the supervision of an Apiary Technician. A motor vehicle Operator’s license that is recognized by the province of Alberta and major insurance companies and the ability to speak English are considered assets. We require 4 Apiary Workers (NOC 8431) with a minimum of
GREIDANUS HONEY-BEE FARM in Stettler, Alberta is accepting applications for the 2024 season on a seasonal full-time basis. The following positions need to be filled: 4 APIARY TECHNICIANS (NOC 8431) Full time employment (40+ hrs/week) $17-$18.50/hr depending on experience. Must have minimum 2 years of experience working full time on a commercial honeybee farm. Duties include: woodwork (building bee related equipment), caring for bees in an appropriate manner, coordinating the production of replacement bees and equipment;recognizing, reporting, monitoring hive health issues and applying appropriate treatments/controls. Moving hives as required;harvest, extract and package honey, lead small teams of workers, drive and maintain vehicles, operate and maintain other beerelated equipment such as forklifts, conduct bee yard maintenance, general cleaning of working/ production areas. Must have avalid driver's license. These positions are from March 15, 2024 thru October 31, 2024 APIARY WORKERS (NOC 8431) Full time (40+ hrs/week) $15.75 -18/hr depending on experience. Minimum 1 year experience. Duties include: woodwork (building bee related equipment), caring for bees in an appropriate manner, assisting technicians with bees and equipment, assisting with moving bees, assisting with honey harvest, extraction and packaging, assisting with bee yard and equipment maintenance, cleaning of working/ production areas. These positions are from April 15, 2024 thru October 31,2024. 2 CASUAL FARM LABOURERS starting @ $16.00 / hr. Duties include: working with cattle, honey bees, farm organization/production, operating farm equipment, and general maintenance of the farm and equipment. These positions are from June 1,2024 thru October 31, 2024. All
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MOUNTAINVIEW HONEY near Cayley, Alberta is seeking interested applicants for 4 positions as APIARY TECHNICIAN NOC 8431 (40+ hrs/ wk) seasonal employment. The applicant must have a minimum of 2 years (seasons) experience working in a Canadian style commercial apiary environment with a minimum of 3 years as an Apiary Technician. Wages will be set by the NOC guidelines approx. $15.65 - $16 per hour, depending on experience. Possible bonus may also apply. Duties include caring for honeybee colonies, moving beehives into an out of canola pollination fields, monitoring and controlling bee health issues, honey harvesting and extraction, construction of new beehive equipment, all duties associated with a Canadian style commercial apiary. Preference will be given to applicants that have a valid drivers licence recognised by the province of Alberta. Ability to drive a lift truck is an asset. Ability to speak English is an asset, must be physically fit, & be prepared to work in a fast-paced team environment. Staff accommodations available. Please fax, mail, or email your resume to Mountainview Honey, Attn: Terry Greidanus, at Box 126 Cayley, AB, T0L 0P0. or jobs@mountainviewhoney.com LYNES APIARIES LTD. (61118 Range Road 251) has 7 positions available for APIARY TECHNICIANS (NOC 8431). Applicants must have two years of Apiary technician experience. The rate of pay is $16.52-$19.00/hr., depending on experience. Applicants must be able to work in the presence of bees and will assist with colony management and honey extraction and processing. Duties include caring for honeybee colonies and coordinating the production of replacement bees and equipment. Also: recognizing, reporting, monitoring and controlling hive health issues. These positions are available from March to October 2024 (45+ hours per week). All positions may require some evening and weekend work. A valid driver's license may be required. Applicants must be physically fit and willing to work in a team environment. Staff accommodations will be provided. Apply with a resume to Daryl or Sharon Lynes, Lynes Apiaries Ltd., P.O. Box 272, Clyde, Alberta T0G 0P0. Email: sdlynes@hotmail.com
www.albertabeekeepers.ca
Alberta Bee News
February 2024
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February 2024
Classifieds
Alberta Bee News
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
MOUNTAINVIEW HONEY near Cayley, Alberta is seeking interested applicants for 3 positions as APIARY SUPERVISOR NOC 8252 (40+ hrs/ wk) seasonal employment. The applicant must have a minimum of 5 years (seasons) experience working in a Canadian style commercial apiary environment with a minimum of 3 years as an Apiary Technician. Wages will be set by the NOC guidelines approx. $15.65 - $19.00 per hour, depending on experience. Possible bonus may also apply. Duties will include Supervising and working with Apiary technicians, caring for honeybee colonies, moving beehives into an out of canola pollination fields, monitoring and controlling bee health issues, honey harvesting and extraction, construction of new beehive equipment, all duties associated with a Canadian style commercial Apiary. Must be able to drive a lift truck. The applicant must have a valid drivers licence recognised by the province of Alberta. Ability to speak English is an asset, must be physically fit, & be prepared to work in a fastpaced team environment. Staff accommodations available. Please fax, mail, or email you resume to Mountainview Honey, Attn: Terry Greidanus, at Box 126 Cayley, AB, T0L 0P0. or jobs@ mountainviewhoney.com
full time, 44+ hrs per week. Some weekend and night work may be required. Duties include but are not limited to: Assisting with care, splitting and managing honey bee colonies, woodwork for new and repairing of bee equipment, honey harvesting and extraction, and winter preparation and wrapping. Please contact: gulllakehoney@ gmail.com or 780.916.2263.
accommodations will be provided. Apply with a resume to Daryl or Sharon Lynes, Lynes Apiaries Ltd., P.O. Box 272, Clyde, Alberta T0G 0P0. Email: sdlynes@hotmail.com
GULL LAKE HONEY COMPANY in Lacombe County (41113 Rg Rd 282 - 18 Kms west of Lacombe, AB) is looking for (1) SUPERVISOR ($18-$22/hr + possible bonuses - NOC 8253) for employment March – October 2024. Accommodations are provided. The position is full time, 44+ hrs per week. Some weekend and night work may be required. The Supervisor must have 3+ years working in a Canadian commercial apiary working as a supervisor. Duties include but are not limited to: Supervise and train other workers in caring for, splitting and managing honey bee colonies, monitoring and controlling colony health, moving bee colonies to new bee yards, woodwork for new and repairing of bee equipment, honey harvesting and extraction, and winter preparation and wrapping. Canadian Drivers licence is required. We are also hiring (3) APIARY TECHNICIANS ($17-$20/hr + possible bonuses - NOC 8431) for employment March – October 2024. Accommodations are provided. The positions are full time, 44+ hrs per week. Some weekend and night work may be required. The workers must have 1+ years working in a Canadian commercial apiary. Duties include but are not limited to: Assisting with care, splitting and managing honey bee colonies, monitoring and controlling colony health, woodwork for new and repairing of bee equipment, honey harvesting and extraction, and winter preparation and wrapping. We are also hiring (3) GENERAL FARM WORKERS ($15.75-$17/hr + possible bonuses) for employment March – October 2024. Accommodations are provided. The positions are
CHRISTENSEN BEE RANCH LTD. located in Mallaig Alberta is seeking two APIARY WORKERS (NOC 8431) with a minimum of 1 year of commercial beekeeping experience. The positions are full time seasonal work from April to October. Wages for this position are between $16.52 and $19 per hour depending on experience. Duties include assisting with spring, summer and fall beehive management, moving hives, harvesting and extracting honey, driving and maintaining trucks, forklifts, pumps, leaf blowers and chain saws. All applicants must be in good physical condition, be able to work in a team environment and have a valid driver’s licence. Contact Paul Christensen by email at christensenbeeranch@gmail.com PARADIS VALLEY HONEY LTD Apiary in Watino, AB (NE-34-77-24-W5); requires the following for the 2024 season. 6-APIARY TECHNICIANs (NOC8431) $15.65/hr. Apiary technician applicants must have a minimum 3 years experience with commercial beekeeping and are expected to work effectively unsupervised. Experience driving trucks and a clean driving record are assets. These 6 positions are seasonal/full-time positions from Feb 1, 2024 to Nov 1, 2024 with 40-50 hours per week. Hours of work are dependent on weather conditions. No formal education is needed for. Successful candidates will take part in the break-down and re-building of live bee colonies, honey harvest, honey extraction, collection of bee pollen and seasonal feeding of hives. On-site farm housing is available. Interested applicants can apply my emailing resumes to info@paradisvalleyhoney.com LYNES APIARIES LTD. (61118 Range Road 251) has 10 positions available for Apiary Workers (NOC 8431). Applicants must have a minimum 1 year apiary work experience. The rate of pay is $16.52 - $ 17.00/hr. depending on experience. Applicants must be able to work in the presence of bees. Duties include: assisting Technicians with bees and equipment, harvesting honey and extracting. Also: bee yard and equipment maintenance. These positions are available from July to September 2024 (45+ hours per week). All positions may require some evening and weekend work. A valid driver's license may be required. Applicants must be physically fit and willing to work in a team environment. Staff 21
YUAN ENTERPRISES is seeking for one APIARY TECHNICIAN (from April 15 to November 30, 2024) and one Apiary worker (from June 15 to September 15, 2024) in Peace River, AB. Applicants must be in good physical condition and do all beekeeping management. Wages from $15.65/hr, depending on experience. Email canadian.prairie.honey@gmail.com or Box 7554, Peace River, AB, T8S 1T2 DEJONG’S HONEY FARM BROOKS, AB requires four general farm workers (NOC 8431) from March 20, 2024 to November 1, 2024. $17/hr. 30 to 60 hours a week. Must be willing to do some weekend work. Three years beekeeping experience a necessity. Specific skills include apiary work, queen management, harvesting honey, assemble, maintain, and clean supers and frames, and work around bees. Work is fast paced, repetitive, and physically demanding. Must be a team player, able to operate a lift truck, and automatic honey extractor. Valid drivers license is an asset. Located in isolated rural area. WCB coverage is provided. Worker accommodation is available. Location is #9 Hajash 190012 RR 142. Fax resume to 1-403-362-6506, call 1-403-5014226 or email dejongshoney@gmail.com GREIDANUS FARMS INC.at Granum, AB requires 17 general farm workers (NOC 8431) from March 9, 2024 to November 9, 2024. $16.52/ hr. 30 to 72 hours a week. Possible bonus. Must be willing to do some weekend work. Three years beekeeping experience a necessity. Specific skills include apiary work, queen management, harvesting honey, preparing honey for market, assemble, maintain, and clean supers and frames, and work around bees. Work is fast paced, repetitive, and physically demanding. Must be a team player, able to operate a lift truck and automatic honey extractor. Valid drivers license is an asset. Located in isolated rural area. WCB coverage provided. Worker accommodation is available. Fax resume to 403-687-2375 or e-mail ggreidanus@hotmail.com. GREIDANUS APIARIES in Sturgeon County, Alberta for the 2024 season from March to November. Requiring four (4) Apiary Labourers, six (6) Apiary Workers and six (6) APIARY TECHNICIANs. Seeking four (4) Apiary Labourers at $16.00/hr for seasonal/full time position. (54.00 hrs/wk) As Apiary Labourer you are required in all manual labour of the Apiary as directed. Main duties involve all aspects of harvesting honey and processing beeswax. Apiary Labourer must have a minimum of one
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year of experience. Seeking six (6) Apiary Workers at $17.00/hr for seasonal/full time position. (54.00 hrs/wk) As Apiary Worker you are required to assist management and apiary technician with beehive maintenance, this involves cleaning, checking, treating and feeding colonies, honey harvesting and extracting. Apiary Worker must have a minimum of one year of experience. Seeking six (6) APIARY TECHNICIANs at $18.00/hr for seasonal/full time position. (54.00 hrs/wk) As Apiary Technician you are required to work with, supervise and instruct other employees. Other requirements include maintaining field records, monitoring and reporting to management. Apiary Technicians must have a minimum of two years of experience. Accomm for all positions are provided. Bonuses apply. Email grapiaries@ gmail.com. Greidanus Apiaries Ltd. 56107 Range Road 245, Sturgeon County, AB, T8R 0M1.
environment. Having a valid Alberta driver’s license and the ability to speak English will be considered an asset. All applicants must be able to follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and maintain health and safety of self and others. APIARY TECHNICIANS must have a minimum of 3 seasons of full-time experience in a commercial apiary, have the ability to supervise/ train staff, have knowledge in commercial hive management for pollination, honey production, queen rearing and disease diagnosis. Must be able to oversee and maintain hive equipment, bee yard and storage facilities. APIARY WORKERS must have a minimum of 1 season full time experience in a commercial apiary, and have knowledge to assist technicians with hive management, building and repairing bee equipment, placement/pick-up of pollination equipment, and honey harvest / extraction/processing. Must be able to maintain hive equipment, bee yard and storage facilities. APIARY LABORERS do not require any experience but must be committed to working with bees, be in good physical condition and can work in hot, sweaty, fast paced environment. All wages are negotiable based on knowledge /experience/skill set. Personal Protection Equipment benefit is provided to all staff. Bonuses may be available. Please email resumes to kiwijobs@witdouckfarms.com Drop off resumes at 94056 Highway 845 Coaldale AB
LALLIER APIARIES Located at 56226 Range road 64 Sangudo, AB is in need of one (1) APIARY WORKER (low skill worker) for the 2024 season; wage $16/hr. The position is full time (40+ hrs/ wk depends on the weather). The season willstart on March 2024 until October 2024. TheApiary Worker will assist the Apiary Technician with beehive maintenance this involves unwrapping, cleaning, treating, make new hives(splits), honey harvesting & extracting, feeding and wrapping in the fall. Applicant may send a resume to extremehaulinginc@gmail.com.
WESTLOCK HONEY PRODUCERS INC. Located at 59332 RR15 Westlock County is seeking applicants for the following positions available in the 2024 season: 4 APIARY TECHNICIANS (NOC 8431). $15.65 - $21/hr depending on experience. Full time 45+ hrs per week Feb thru Oct 2024. Applicants must have a minimum 2-3 seasons experience working in a Canadian commercial apiary. Duties include spring, summer and fall management of bee colonies, bee health monitoring, hive feeding, honey harvesting, operating /maintaining apiary equipment and coordinating some workers. Two apiary workers (NOC 8431) with a minimum of 1 year (season) experience and with full time employmentApril thru September 2024. ($15.65 - $18 /hr depending on experience) Duties include assisting technicians with bees and equipment, honey harvesting and equipment maintenance. A valid drivers license may be required for some of the positions. All applicants must be in good physical condition, ability to speak English is an asset. Must be able to work with bees in a fast paced team environment. Email westlockhoney@ gmail.com or mail to Westlock Honey Producers RR1 Busby, AB T0G 0H0 KIWI BRIAN’S HONEY near Coaldale AB, (94056 H845), is seeking employees for the 2024 season. APIARY TECHNICIANS: 8431 (4 positions; starting at $16.50 -$21.00/hr.) and Apiary Workers NOC: 8431 (15 positions; starting at $16 - 18.50/hr.) and Farm Laborers (3 Positions; starting at $15.75-16.00/hr.) needed full time (45+ hrs./wk.) as early as February 1, 2024, up until November 16, 2024, weather depending. Some evening, night and weekend work will be required. Accommodations are available if required. All applicants must be willing to work with both leafcutter and honeybees, be in good physical condition, and work in a team
HICKS HONEY FARMS LTD. Near McLennan, AB 77405 RR 193A is seeking for the 2024 season, 8 APIARY TECHNICIANS, NOC 8431. Applicants should have between 3-5 years experience working in a Canadian style commercial beekeeping operation. Duties include, helping to feed, treat, split, and monitor springbuild up. Also responsible for helping to prepare hives for harvest, including, adding supers, monitoring hives, and setting up bee locations. Once harvest begins, applicants should be able to run a crew pulling honey, picking up honey, or extracting. Applicants will be required to help, feed, treat and prepare bees for winter in the fall. Work begins February 18, 2024 and goes until November 5, 2024. Also seeking 9 APIARY WORKERS NOC 8431. These workers should have 1 year experience working in a Canadian style commercial operation. Wages will be between $16.50 - $18 depending on experience and efficiency. These applicants will be expected to help technicians with all duties related to beekeeping, including, spring preparation, feeding, treating, harvest preparation, extracting, and fall feeding and winter preparation. All jobs may have weekend and evening work. Accomodations available. There may be some spring and fall work in the Similkameen valley in B.C. Apply to hicksry82@gmail.com or mail to Hicks Honey Farms Ltd., box 181, McLennan, AB T0H 2L0.
22
PARADIS HONEY LTD. 5023-50 St & SW4-78-23-W5 Girouxville, AB requires: APIARY TECHNICIANS – NOC 84120 (2 positions) ($16.52 - $20.00/hr depending on experience. Bonuses possible) for full time, year round work (40+ hrs/wk) from October 1, 2024 to October 1, 2025. Must have a minimum of 2+ yrs experience working with bees in a Canadian style commercial apiary. Applicants must be able to work in presence of honeybees Technician duties: Caring for honeybee colonies, coordinating the production of replacement bees and equipment. Recognizing, reporting, monitoring hive health issues and applying appropriate treatment/ controls. Harvest and package honey, beeswax and pollen. Supervise small teams of workers. Drive & daily maintenance of vehicles (including Std transmission & medium duty trucks). Operate & maintain other apiary equipment including forklifts, chainsaws & pumps). Conduct beeyard maintenance. Keep some field and or production records. APIARY TECHNICIANS – NOC 84120 (10 positions) ($16.52 - $20.00/hr depending on experience. Bonuses possible) for full time, work (40+ hrs/wk) from February, 2024 to November, 2024. Must have a minimum of 2+ yrs experience working with bees in a Canadian style commercial apiary. Applicants must be able to work in presence of honeybees. Technician duties: Caring for honeybee colonies, coordinating the production of replacement bees and equipment. Recognizing, reporting, monitoring hive health issues and applying appropriate treatment/ controls. Harvest and package honey, beeswax and pollen. Supervise small teams of workers. Drive & daily maintenance of vehicles (including Std transmission & medium duty trucks). Operate & maintain other apiary equipment including forklifts, chainsaws & pumps). Conduct beeyard maintenance. Keep some field and or production records. APIARY WORKERS – NOC 85100 (4 positions) ($16.52 - $18.00/hr depending on experience. Bonuses possible). For full time work (40+ hrs/wk) from February, 2024 to November,
February 2024
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2024. Applicants must be able to work in the available, February to October 2024) - $16.75/ ongoing with aim of being permanent) - $18.50+/ presence of honeybees hour plus bonus for superior work. Duties hour plus bonus for superior work. Duties involve Apiary worker duties: include caring for honeybee colonies; harvesting understanding all the positions above as well as Caring for honeybee colonies. Assisting technicians honey, pollen and beeswax. Minimum one having the ability to plan the work load and manage with bees and equipment, assisting with harvesting year experience required in a Canadian-style 5-10 workers in a specific area of the operation as honey, beeswax and pollen. Assisting with beeyard commercial apiary. the lead worker & equipment maintenance. Conduct beeyard Apiary Harvester NOC 85101 (8 seasonal All positions are physically demanding and involve maintenance. Some Apiary Technicians may be required to spend positions available, February to October 2024) - standing/bending/crouching for long periods; 3-4 months out of province to BC (March-June) as $16.75/hour plus bonus for superior work. Duties heavy lifting; repetitive tasks; working outdoors bees may be moved to BC for spring pollination include harvesting and extracting honey, pollen in the heat in a rural environment; driving and maintaining farm equipment (class services and return to AB mid-June. 5 driver’s license required, class 3 Room and board will be provided for preferred); 40-70 hours per week employees working in BC. Must be able to travel out of province. English including evenings, weekends and an asset. No skills or education overtime as required, as well as ability required. All positions may require to work in a team environment and some evening, night and weekend show attention to detail. work. All applicants must be in good Positions are in Rosedale, British physical condition and have the ability Columbia with summer months spent 55 USG Open Head to handle heavy loads, bending, in Boyle, Alberta. Accommodation crouching, kneeling. Accomm 20 gauge body & lid lever locking closure & epoxy provided at both locations. provided. Rural area. Apply: info@ phenolic lining also available in 5/8” bolt & ring Worker Bee Honey Company Ltd. paradishoney.com or mail to Paradis FDA Approved 10609 McGrath Road, Rosedale, BC Honey Ltd, c/o Lise Paradis Box 99, V0X 1X2 tel: 604-794-3315; fax: 604Girouxville, AB T0H 1S0 794-3085; jobs@workerbeehoney.ca SEVERSON HONEY FARM at GOOD MORNING HONEY LTD.in 48143 Range Rd 204 Camrose, AB is Parkland County, AB (51516seeking for the 2024 season from Feb RR15) is looking for: (2) APIARY – Nov 1: 8 apiary workers (NOC8431) TECHNICIANS ($17-$20/hr with a min of 1-year experience, depending on experience) NOC8431 wages starting at $16.52/hr & 7 for employment during March APIARY TECHNICIANs (NOC8431) thru October 2024 season. The with a min of 2-3 years experience, positions are seasonal full time (44+ wage starting at $16.50/hr. These hrs/wk). Some weekend, evening positions are fulltime 40+ hrs/week and night work required. On-farm & may req. some evening,night, accommodations available. Located weekend work. Work involves care For pricing & delivery from 10 min SW of Stony Plain, Alberta. of honey bees for honey production The Apiary Technician must have a Lloydminster call 780.875.4421 & pollination services. All applicants minimum of three years experience must be physically fit &be able to or Dave LʹHeureux 780.893.7623 in a Canadian commercial apiary perform work in a team environment. dave.lheureux@mauserpackaging.com working as an Apiary Technician or On farm accomm are avail. Wages Apiary worker. Experience required are negotiable depending on in hive management for honey experience. Please send resume to and beeswax. Minimum six months’ experience in production, disease diagnosis, general hive health Russell at rads@netkaster.ca Cell 780-608-0076. a Canadian-style commercial apiary. and mite threshold monitoring. Applicants must be WORKER BEE HONEY COMPANY APIARY APIARY WORKER NOC 85100 (8 seasonal in good physical condition. A valid driver's license TECHNICIAN NOC 84120 (6 seasonal positions positions available, February to October 2024) is an asset. available, January to November 2024) - $18.00/ - $16.75/hour plus bonus for superior work. We also require (3) APIARY WORKERS ($16 -$19/ hour plus bonus for superior work. Duties include Duties include caring for honeybee colonies; hr depending on experience) NOC8431 with employment during March thru October 2024 caring for honeybee colonies; recognizing and harvesting honey, pollen and beeswax. Minimum season. The positions are seasonal full time (44+ monitoring hive issues; supervising 2-4 Apiary one year experience required in a Canadian-style hrs/wk). Some weekend, evening and night work commercial apiary. Workers; harvesting, extracting and packaging required. On-farm accommodations available. Apiary Harvester NOC 85101 (8 seasonal honey, beeswax and pollen; using power Located 10 min SW of Stony Plain, Alberta. The tools; and maintaining field and/or production positions available, February to October 2024) - Apiary Worker MUST be able to work in the records, including using an online app. Three $16.75/hour plus bonus for superior work. Duties presence of honey bees and will assist with colony years’ experience required in a Canadian-style include harvesting and extracting honey, pollen management as well as honey extraction. and beeswax. Minimum six months’ experience in Applicants must be in good physical condition commercial apiary. Apiary Worker NOC 85100 (8 seasonal positions a Canadian-style commercial apiary. and have a minimum 1+ year experience working APIARY MANAGERS NOC 80020 (3 positions 23
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February 2024
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in a Canadian style commercial apiary. We also require (2) APIARY LABOURER (Bee Farm Worker) ($16/hr) NOC 8431 with employment during March thru October 2024 season. This position is seasonal full time (44+ hrs/wk.) Some weekend, evening and night work required. On-farm accommodations available. Located 10 min SW of Stony Plain, Alberta. The Apiary Labourer MUST be able to work in the presence of honey bees. Applicants must be in good physical condition. Experience is an asset. Production bonus payments may be included for all positions. Email resumes to Richard at albertahoney@gmail. com or send mail to 2-51516 RR15 Parkland County, AB T7Y 2E8. Clearly indicate which position you are applying for. These are seasonal jobs that do not start until March of 2024.
reporting, monitoring hive health issues and applying appropriate treatments/controls. Moving hives as required; harvest, extract and package honey, lead small teams of workers, drive and maintain vehicles, operate and maintain other bee related equipment such as forklifts, conduct bee yard maintenance, general cleaning of working/production areas. One of these positions is from February 2024 thru June 2024. The other two positions are from February 2024
night and weekend work. All applicants must be able to work in the presence of bees, be in good physical condition and able to work in a team environment. On farm housing is available. Email resumes to: info@nixonhoney.ca or mail to: Nixon Honey Farm, #20, 35566 RR 263, Red Deer County, Alberta, T4G 0C9
YAREMCIO HONEY is seeking 8 full time seasonal APIARY TECHNICIANs (NOC 8431) for the 2024 March to November Season. Apiary Technician's must have previous beekeeping experience (7 months to 1 year experience).They must be able to work in a team environment, as well as independently. Additionally, Apiary Technicians need to be able to pay great attention to detail and handle the pressure of working under tight deadlines. Previous leadership experience is considered an asset, along with, a valid driver's license. Duties of an Apiary Technician include but are not limited to site preparation, site maintenance, colony management, honey extraction, and preparing hives for winter. Hours of work are minimum 40 hours per week or more. The salary for Apiary Technicians is $15.65 - $25.00 per hour. NIXON HONEY FARM in Red Deer County, Alberta is accepting applications for the 2024 season on a seasonal full time basis. The following positions need to be filled: 3 APIARY TECHNICIANS (NOC 8431) Full time employment (40+ hrs/week) $17-21/hr depending on experience with possible bonus. Must have minimum 2 years of experience working full time on a commercial honeybee farm. Duties include: woodwork (building bee related equipment), caring for bees in an appropriate manner, coordinating the production of replacement bees and equipment; recognizing,
thru October 2024. 14 APIARY WORKERS (NOC 8431) Full time (40+ hrs/week) $15.65 -19.50/hr depending on experience, possible bonuses. Minimum 1 year experience. Duties include: woodwork (building bee related equipment), caring for bees in an appropriate manner, assisting technicians with bees and equipment, assisting with moving bees, assisting with honey harvest, extraction and packaging, assisting with bee yard and equipment maintenance, cleaning of working/production areas. One of these positions is from July 2024 thru October 2024. The other twelve positions are from February 2024 thru October 2024. All wages are negotiable based on experience and productivity. All positions may require some 24
S.S. HONEY INC. S.S. Honey Inc. is looking for 4 positions to be filled for the upcoming 2024 bee season. 2 Apiary technicians (NOC 8431) from April 1 2024 to October 31 2024. Full Time Seasonal employment on a Canadian commercial beekeeping operation. (40+/hrs a week) $18 to $20/hr depending on experience, minimum 3 year experience. Must be physically fit and be able to work as a team. Duties include and are not limited to: Hive Management, Detecting Hive Diseases, Treating Hive Diseases, Extraction of Honey, Operating Farm equipment. Apiary Techs are required to be team leaders and must be able to manage a team. 2 APIARY WORKERS (NOC 8431) from April 1, 2024 to October 31, 2024. Full time seasonal employment on a Canadian commercial beekeeping operation. (40+hours a week) $16.00 to 18.00 depending on experience. Must be physically fit and be able to work as a team. Duties include and are not limited to: Hive Management, Detecting Hive Diseases, Treating Hive Diseases, Extraction of Honey, Operating Farm equipment. International Drivers License is an asset. Some evenings and weekends are required. Worker Accommodation is available. Send resume to sshoneyinc@gmail.com or by mail Box 765, High Prairie, Ab, T0G-1E0 BUTZ APIARIES 1 Apiary Worker for Jun-Oct, 2024 and 1 APIARY WORKER Jul-Sep, 2024. Starting $17.44/hour according to NOC 85100 guidelines. 45 plus hrs/wk. 1+ year Canadian commercial beekeeping experience required and must be physically fit and able to work with bees. Duties include honey har vesting, extraction, equipment maintenance and associated duties. Jun-Oct Apiary Harvest Worker will also assist with winter hive preparation. Contact Butz Apiaries, butzbuzz@ gmail.com. PO Box 36 Carnwood AB T0C 0W0.
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WILDROSE COUNTRY APIARY LTD. in Smoky Lake AB, is seeking to hire 4 seasonal APIARY TECHNICIANS (NOC 85100) from March thru October 2024. $16.52-20hr 30-60 hours a week. 1 year experience is required. Specific skills include colony management, honey production, spring & winter preparation, and general maintenance on the farm. Must be physically fit and prepared to work in an efficient team environment. Expect some weekend and evening work. Located in a rural setting. Worker accommodation is provided. Email: wildrosecountryapiary@gmail.com
Summer, Fall management of bee colonies, bee health monitoring, feeding, honey production and harvest, maintaining quality control/ production, and safety records, operating and maintaining apiary equipment including trucks and forklifts, and coordination of some workers. - (10) APIARY WORKER(s) (NOC 85100) $17.44$19.00/hr. depending on experience for full time (50+ hrs/wk) employment March thru October 2024. No educational requirement. Must have a minimum of 1 year (season) working fulltime on a Canadian style commercial apiary operation as an Apiary Worker or in the min. capacity of an Apiary Harvester/Labourer. All duties related to Canadian style commercial apiary associated with assisting Beekeepers/Apiary Technicians with Spring, Summer, Fall colony management, moving colonies, maintaining of apiary equipment, and all aspects in the collection extraction/processing of honey.
fast-pace team environment. All Applicants must be able to work in the presence of bees. A valid driver’s license may be required for some of the Apiary Technician positions. Apply with resume to P & J Apiaries Inc., @p.j.apiaries.applicants@shaw.ca, (Location 61232 – RR240 Westlock Co. AB.)
P & J APIARIES INC. (10) APIARY TECHNICIAN(s) (NOC 84120) $17.44-$22.00/hr. depending on experience for full time (50+ hrs/wk) employment February thru October 2024. No educational requirement. Must have a minimum of 2-3 years (seasons) working fulltime on a Canadian style commercial apiary operation as an Apiary Technician or in the min. capacity of an Apiary Worker. All Duties associated with Canadian style commercial apiary such as Spring,
All positions may require some evening & weekend work. All applicants must be in good physical conditions and able to work in a 25
P & J APIARIES INC-(6) APIARY HARVESTER(S)NOC 85101 (6) Positions- $17.44 per/hr. The positions are available on a seasonal/full-time basis (50+ hrs. per week) for May to October 2024. Apiary Harvester duties include honey harvesting, collecting & processing of honey No educational requirement, experience an asset. Apiary Harvester position may require some evening & weekend work. All applicants must be in good physical conditions and able to work in a fast-paced team environment. Experience an asset. All Applicants must be able to work in the presence of bees. Apply with resume to Todd Eastman at P & J Apiaries Inc., p.j.apiaries.applicants@shaw.ca, Fax.: 780 349 6610. (Location 61232 – RR240 Westlock Co. AB.)
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PHILPOTT HONEY PRODUCERS LTD. located 10 kms north of Brooks is accepting resumes for APIARY WORKERS for the 2024 beekeeping season. The position starts Feb 1st, 2024 and carries on until Oct 31st, 2024. Full time hours (45+hrs/week) and some weekends and evenings are required. All applicants must be in good physical condition and be able to work well with others. Duties to include helping with all aspects of beekeeping and honey production in a commercial beekeeping operation. No experience is necessary as on job training given; however, is an asset. Starting wage is $16.52/hour and is negotiable depending on exp. with a performance bonus determined at end of season. On-farm accommodations are also available. Please email resumes to colin@ philpotthoney.ca or mailed to box 555, Brooks AB, T1R 1B5 or faxed to 403-362-4350
positions fall under NOC:84120 - $16.52/ hr - will adjust according to NOC guidelines if required. Successful applicants must have experience working with bees on a commercial honey farm for at least 2 seasons. Please email resumes to Honeymeadows1@hotmail.com
daily work duties with staff, etc. Year round employment and accommodation available. $20-$24/hr. We are located in Guy, AB. Serious inquiries only Please contact Gilbert Wolfe at 780-925-2282 or email gilbert@honeybunny.ca
MARC G. PARADIS NE 23-79-5W6 Rycroft, AB. – NOC 8431(4 positions) ($15.65 - $16.50/hr depending on experience) for full time (40+hrs/wk) from Feb to Nov, 2024. Applicants must be able to work in presence of honeybees (Apiary work) & will assist with colony management & harvest crop. English an asset. No skills, experience or education required. All positions may require some evening, night and weekend work. All applicants must be in good physical condition and able to work in a team environment. Operate and maintain farm machinery and equipment. Valid driver’s license an asset. Apiary Workers Accommodation is available. Rural area. Apply: rycrofthoney@gmail. com or mail to Marc G Paradis, Box 487, Rycroft, AB T0H 3A0. AP HONEY FARM LTD in Wanham AB for the 2024 season is seeking two positions for APIARY TECHNICIAN (NOC 8253) $15.65 - $17 with 2 years experience minimum, in a commercial apiary, wages depends on experience. Major duties: knowledge of hive management, disease diagnoses & prevention, weekend work & evenings. Also require seven positions for Apiary Worker (NOC8431), $16.52 -$17 experience required. Major duties, include assisting Apiary Technician with all the duties in the work with bees. Some weekend & evenings work if needed, physically demanding work (45/ hrs + a week of work). Both positions start Jan 15 - November 15, 2024. Staff accomm available. Send resumes to Artur Pala palashoney@ hotmail.com or fax 780 694 2282. HONEY MEADOWS FARM is located in Foothills County, Alberta. We are looking to hire 14 beekeepers for the 2024 season, beginning mid January through to mid October (~45+hours/ week). The work entails colony management, harvesting and extracting honey as well as manufacturing and repair of apiary equipment. The
NOLTE APIARIES at 55503 Rge Rd 260 Sturgeon County, AB. T8R 0T6. Seeking 4 APIARY TECHNICIANS with 3+ yrs experience in Canadian commercial beekeeping. Education notrequired. Salary $16.52 - $24/hr. Job duties: bee colony management, honey harvesting. Seeking 6 APIARY WORKERS NOC8431 wage $16.52-$22/hr. 1yr experience & education notrequired. Job duties assist with bee colony management & honey harvesting. Seeking 4 Apiarylabourers wage $16.52-$20/hr. No experience, no education. Job duties honey harvesting.All positions manufacturing & assemble hive equipment & handle heavy loads. Seasonal: March to November 2024. 40+hrs/ wk. Valid driver’s license an asset. Apply by e-mail bee.farmerjob@gmail.com WOLFE HONEY COMPANY INC. requires 12 BEEKEEPER APIARY WORKERS for full time/ seasonal work (40-50 hrs/ wk.) for beekeeping season (approximately end of Feb to beginning of Nov 2024) in Guy, AB. Wages will be set by the NOC guidelines and is currently $16.52 per hour, with a possibility of a bonus. Accommodation is provided in Guy. All applicants must be physically fit and able to work in the presence of honeybees. The job duties under the direction of the Field Supervisor and Managers include: maintaining the health of live honeybees, moving bees, collection & extraction of honey & preparing bees for winter. Also includes some woodwork for new beehive equipment, and general shop cleaning & maintenance. There will be some evening, weekend and night work required. This is an entry level position with on the job training. There are no job experience or educational requirements for this position. We work in a team environment. Wolfe Honey Company Inc. is located at 501049th Street in Guy, AB, T0H 1Y0. The hamlet of Guy is located in the Municipal District of Smoky River. Applications accepted by email to hr@honeybunny. ca or by fax: 780-925-2943. WOLFE HONEY COMPANY INC. is seeking an Apiary Manager for the 2024 beekeeping season. Must be able to communicate fluently in Spanish and English. Must be detailed oriented with strong organizational and interpersonal skills and have a minimum of 3 years working in a Canadian style beekeeping operation. Must have a valid driver’s license and be able to maintain equipment. Must be able to keep detailed field and production records. Duties include caring for honeybee colonies, coordinating the moving of bee colonies, plan 26
KEMP HONEY LTD. located 1 mile west of High Prairie, AB., (74401 RR173) is seeking: 1 APIARY TECHNICIAN NOC 84120 for full time (40hrs+/week) seasonal employment. $17.44-$22/hr depending on experience. May thru October 2024. Must have a minimum 2 years (seasons) in a Canadian style commercial apiary. Duties include: • Caring for bee colonies in appropriate manner. • Production and replacement of bee equipment • Recognizing, reporting, monitoring and controlling hive health issues. • Harvest and package honey. • Drive (including standard transmission single axle) • Daily maintenance of equipment. • Beeyard maintenance. 1 APIARY SUPERVISOR NOC 82030 $17.44-$22/ hr. (dependant on experience) for full time (40hrs+/ week) year-round employment. Duties include: • Caring for bee colonies in appropriate manner. • Production and replacement of bee equipment • Recognizing, reporting, monitoring and controlling hive health issues. • Harvest and package honey. • Drive (including standard transmission single axle) • Daily maintenance of equipment. • Beeyard maintenance. • Coordinate and organize beeyard operations. • Work independently or in a team. • Maintain records. • Communicate effectively to management. All positions must be able to work with bees. Some early morning, evening and weekend work will be required. Must be physically fit and able to work in a hot fast paced environment with minimal supervision. Apply to elkhoney@yahoo.com. MOONDANCE HONEY INC located at 55063 TWP RD 704 has the following positions for the 2024 beekeeping season. Apiary Technician (NOC 8431) 4 seasonal positions. Wages $17-$19, depending on experience. Duties include hive management, queen introduction and nuc production, pest/disease recognition and treatment, hive supering, honey removal and extraction, and winter hive preparation. Shop work includes equipment construction and repair. Positions require 2-5 years of experience. Apiary Worker (NOC 8431) - 2 seasonal positions, $15.65-17/hr, depending on experience. Duties include assisting the Apiary Technicians with the duties described above. Seasonal positions run from mid-April to early October. Apply to termeerbill@yahoo.ca or fax your resume to 780-833-5747
Alberta Bee News
February 2024
SUPERNUC APIARIES llocated near Granum, AB (251032 TWP RD 104) has the following positions for the 2024 season. APIARY TECHNICIAN (NOC 8431) 1 position; wage starting at $16.52 - $22.00/hr, and APIARY WORKERS (NOC 8431) 2 positions: starting at $16.52 - $20.00/hr, needed full time (45+ hrs/wk) from Mar 1, 2024 through October 31, 2024. Apiary technicians must have a minimum of 3 seasons of full-time experience in a Canadian commercial apiary and have the ability to supervise/train staff, have knowledge in commercial hive management for pollination, honey production and queen-rearing and the ability to assess hive health and care for them in the appropriate manner. Apiary workers must have a minimum of 1 season full time experience in a Canadian commercial apiary. Duties include assisting technicians with beehive maintenance and treatments, building and repairing bee equipment, moving hives, harvesting and extracting honey, and winter preparation. Some evening, night and weekend work will be required. Accommodations are available. A valid driver's license and the ability to speak English is an asset. Must be physically fit and accustomed to working with honeybees. No educational requirements. All wages are negotiable based on experience and productivity. Bonuses may be available. Email resumes to aovinge@gmail.com or mail to Box 133, Granum, AB T0L 1A0. GREIDANUS HONEY-BEE FARM, a 3400 hive beekeeping operation located in Stettler Alberta is seeking a seasonal Apiarist/Farm Foreman Duties: The foreman will oversee managing the beekeepers, bee care and honey collection/extraction. The foreman will manage the day to day operation of the honey bee farm including but not limited to oversight and organization of all field staff, ensuring that bee yards are checked on a regular basis and worker reporting back. Oversight of hive management including; medication, feeding bees, queen and nuc production, making splits. Harvesting and extracting honey. Maintenance of all kinds, transporting bee colonies to and from pollination, wood working, clean up and other duties as assigned. Looking for a minimum of 3 – 5 years experience. Salary negotiable and based on experience/qualifications. Must have a valid driver’s license. On site accommodation is available. Please send cover letter and resume to: rongreidanus@gmail.com
O D E M I N T E R N AT I O N A L
Y O U R PA R T N E R IN SALES
MEIJER HONEY FARM is looking for applicants for the 2024 season. All positions are F/T on a seasonal basis from Feb 2024-Oct 2024. Applicants must be able to work in the presence of honeybees. Position may require some evening and weekend work. All applicants must be in good physical condition and able to work in a team environment.17 APIARY TECHNICIANS (NOC 84120) F/T (40+ hrs./wk.) starting at $16.00 -$22.00/hr. depending on experience. (Possible bonus). Must have a minimum of 1 year (season) experience working fulltime on a Canadian commercial Farm. Duties include Caring for honeybee colonies in the appropriate manner. Manual labor of apiary. Coordinating the production of replacement bees & equipment. Recognizing, reporting, monitoring hive health issues and applying appropriate treatment/controls. Harvesting honey, extraction, package honey, pollen, and beeswax. Team -player who can also work well independently. Drive (including std transmission & medium duty trucks) & daily maintenance on vehicles. Operate & maintain other apiary equipment (including forklifts & pumps). Conduct bee yard maintenance. Maintaining field and/or production records. Monitoring and reporting to management. Contact: Meijer Honey Farm -181072 TWP-RD 32-4 Box 295 Delia, AB T0J OWO Email: meijerhoneyfarm@outlook.com
WE BUY HONEY & WAX ASK FOR SÉBASTIEN OR PHILLIPE 1 800 567-3789 | info@honey.ca | odem.ca
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www.albertabeekeepers.ca
Alberta Bee News
February 2024
Classifieds EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
T’N’T APIARIES REQUIRE: An APIARY FOREPERSON (NOC 82030) for fulltime (40+ hrs/wk) year round employment ($20.00-$25/hr depending on experience. Bonuses possible). Applicant must have a minimum of 5 years (seasons) fulltime in a Canadian style commercial apiary environment with a minimum of 3 years (seasons) working as an Apiary Technician. Duties include: • Caring for honeybee colonies in the appropriate manner. • Co-ordinating the production of replacement bees & equipment. • Recognizing, reporting, monitoring and controlling hive health issues. • Harvest & package honey, pollen & beeswax. • Supervise & train workers. • Drive (including std transmission & medium duty trucks) & daily maintenance of vehicles. • Operate & maintain other apiary equipment (including forklifts, chainsaws & pumps). • Conduct bee yard maintenance. • Keep field and/or production records. • Interact with external farm personnel.
positions may become year round. Must have a minimum of 2 years (seasons) working fulltime on a Canadian style commercial apiary in the min. capacity of Apiary Assistant or General Farm Worker. Duties include: • Caring for honeybee colonies in the appropriate manner. • Co-ordinating the production of replacement bees & equipment. • Recognizing, reporting, monitoring hive health issues and applying appropriate treatment/controls. • Harvest & package honey, pollen & beeswax. • Supervise small teams of workers. • Drive (including std transmission & medium duty trucks) & daily maintenance of vehicles. • Operate & maintain other apiary equipment (including forklifts, chainsaws & pumps). • Conduct bee yard maintenance. • Keep some field and/or production records.
appropriate manner • Assisting Technicians with bees & equipment. • Assisting with harvesting honey, pollen & beeswax. • Assisting with the bee yard and equipment maintenance. All positions may require some evening, night & weekend work. All applicants must be in good physical condition and able to work in a team environment. A motor vehicle Operator’s license with no serious infractions, recognized by the Province of Alberta & major insurance companies, is required for the Foreperson position and preference will be given to those Technician & Worker applicants holding one. Contact Dave Tharle, 44116 - Hwy 659, Ardmore, AB or Box 80, Ardmore, AB. (Fax 780-826-6013) Email: tntapi@mcsnet.ca
5 APIARY TECHNICIANS (NOC 84120) for full time (40+ hrs/wk) employment ($17.00$22/hr depending on experience. Bonuses possible) February thru November 2024. 1-2
6 APIARY WORKERS (NOC 85100) for full time (40+ hrs/wk) employment ($16.55$19.00/hr. depending on experience. Bonuses Possible) February thru November 2024. Applicants must be able to work in the presence of honey bees. Duties include: • Caring for honeybee colonies in the
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SEVERSON HONEY FARM at 48143 Range Rd 204 Camrose, AB, requires 3 Apiary Supervisors/ Forman (noc8253) for the 2024 year. Must have a minimum of 5 yearexperience in commercial beekeeping, wages start at $17–$21 depending on experience. Must be able to supervise 3-4 people & operate trucks & equipment. Be organized, maintain records, work in team environment. This position is full-time 40+ hrs/ week. On farm accomm avail. Please send resume to Russell at rads@netkaster.ca 780-608-0076
Alberta Bee News
February 2024
Classifieds EMPLOYMENT
FOR SALE
FOR SALE
BLISSFUL BEE APIARY LTD. Located at 6308 HWY 624 Tomahawk Alberta, T0E2H0 Is seeking 2 APIARY WORKERS (NOC 85100) from April 1. 2024 to October 31, 2024. Full time seasonal employment . (40+Hours/ week, wages starts from $17.44 / Hour. Duties includes: Assisting Beekeeper in caring for bees/ help making splits & Nucs/ Harvesting and Extracting honey/ helping to feed and bees medication treatment. No experience is necessary as on the job training given, however ,is an asset. Workers accommodation is provided. Apply by email: blissfulbeeapiary@yahoo.com
EQUIPMENT IN ELK POINT, ALBERTA. Used, in good condition. $150,000.00 for the following: • Paradise Air Ram extraction line, 128 frames • Automotive uncapper with de-boxer • Ralph Belt frame grabber, 9 frames • Second generation wax press (Canadian made, Paradise knockoff) • Water-jacketed Cowan in-floor sump with baffles and float switch (2 drum capacity) • 900 gallon heated milk tank (half inch tubing Cowan heater) • 2 tall plastic holding tanks on stands with 18 drums each • Electric scale up to 2000 Lbs • 3 two inch Cowan honey pumps Please contact Jean-Marc Le Dorze at jeanmarcledorze@gmail.com
PARADIS HONEY LTD. Has the following equipment for sale: Paradise 1000 Wax Press - $15,000 obo Pollen Traps (approx. 1,500) - $60 each obo For further information email: paradishoney@outlook.com or phone 780-323-4183
MEIJER HONEY FARM DOWNSIZING FOR SALE- 1000 doubles - 1000 single splits. Queens made June, 2024 Saskatraz stock. Available end of April beginning of May. Email meijerhoneyfarm@outlook.com or call 403 857 8077
FOR SALE:
4 - 5 frame nucs $325.00 each. Full deep colonies for sale $600.00 each. Email info@paradisvalleyhoney.com
or call 780-837-0302 Contact: info@paradisvalleyhoney.com FOR SALE: 72 frame extractor. Dc drive. Stainless steel drum. Food grade painted basket. CFIA approved. Runs great. 2k OBO. Pics available. 100 steel queen excluders. $7 each. Info at andrewcapis@yahoo.ca HONEY SUPERS FOR SALE 3500 - 8 & 9 stretched frame honey supers for sale. Most are 9 frames. Asking $40 each. Please email Karen Wolfe/Wolfes Natural Bee Products Inc. at karwolfe1@gmail.com.
HEALTHY HIVE ESSENTIALS
18% CRUDE PROTEIN WITH PROBIOTICS
MANNLAKELTD.COM 866-773-3025 29
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Alberta Bee News
February 2024
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