Alberta Bee News Magazine - October 2024

BEE NEWS

Serving the interests of the beekeepers of Alberta since 1933

OCTOBER 2024 Alberta

In This Issue

03 -05 Understanding The Varroa Mite’s Lifecycle: A Closer Look at the Honey Bee’s Greatest Enemy

05 Breeder's Day & IPM Workshop - Save the Date

06 - 07 2024 AGM, Conference & Trade Show

08 -09 Protecting

Board of Directors

President:

CURTIS MIEDEMA

BOX 39 SITE 11

RR1 Barrhead, AB T7N1N2 780.206.4483 miedemahoney@gmail.com

Vice President:

LORNE PRINS

RR3 Station Main Lacombe AB / T4L 2N3 780.893.2337 lorne.prins@gmail.com

Peace Region/CHC Delegate:

RYAN HICKS

BOX 625 McLennan AB T0H 2L0 / 780.837.0648 hicksry82@gmail.com

NE Central Region: PAUL GREIDANUS

56107 Range Road 245 Sturgeon County, AB T8R 0M1 grapiaries@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

2023 - 2024

NW Region: RENE LAROCQUE

RR1 Busby AB T0G 0H0 T 780.818.4268 larocquerene@hotmail.com

Director at Large: BEVAN FORD

RR1 Irma AB / T0B 2H0 780.806.1310 bevanford1976@gmail.com

Director at Large: DAN PALA

BOX 368 Wembley AB T0H 3S0 / 780.832.5809 d.pala@telus.net

Director at Large: AMBER OZERO 2 51516 Range Road 15, Parkland Co, AB, T7Y 2E8 albertahoney@gmail.com

Alberta Beekeepers Commission: Mailing address: PO Box 65057, St. Albert RPO Mission Hill PL, AB, T8N 5Y3

Office address: 70 Alberta Ave, Spruce Grove, AB T7X 3B1 (BeeMaid building). T 780.489.6949 www.albertabeekeepers.ca

CONNIE PHILLIPS, Executive Director C 780.289.5604 connie.phillips@albertabeekeepers.ca

Cover image and above image photo credit: Jessica Musslewhite

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 Mailing address: PO Box 65057, St. Albert RPO Mission Hill PL, AB, T8N 5Y3 Tel. 780-489-6949.

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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 aregenerallypublishedasreceived.

2024 Platinum Sponsors

Understanding The Varroa Mite’s Lifecycle: A Closer Look at the Honey Bee’s Greatest Enemy

By Emily Olson, Communications Specialist

The Varroa mite (Varroa destructor) is an ectoparasite that lives on the external surfaces of honey bees, posing one of the most significant threats to the beekeeping industry. This article delves into each stage of the varroa mite's development and its intricate connection to the honey bee lifecycle. Understanding this relationship is crucial for developing effective management strategies to protect honey bees and ensure the sustainability of the industry.

Day 0: Female mite enters cell

As larvae develop, they release brood pheromones that signal to

nurse bees when it’s time to cap the cell. Varroa mites also detect these chemicals, using them as a cue to invade the brood cell at the perfect moment for reproduction, as they rely on the pupating brood to feed and reproduce. Therefore, when the honey bee larva is about 8 days old, a fertilized female Varroa mite, known as the foundress mite, enters the brood cell, and remains in the brood food for 60-70 hours until the cell is capped1. When drones are present, mites are more attracted to their brood cells, as drone larvae secrete a larger quantity of pheromones over a longer period of time2,3. Aurori et al. (2021) suggests that certain bee pheromones may play a role in initiating the mite’s reproductive cycle and that the higher levels produced by drones contribute to the increased fecundity of mites in drone brood2. Interestingly, Nazzi et al. (2009) discovered that queen larvae are less attractive to mites than worker and drone larvae, as the large quantity of royal jelly has a repellent effect4

Day 1-2: Cell capping

After the worker bee caps the cell, the foundress mite tears a hole in the larva’s abdomen and begins feeding. A study by Han

et al. (2024) found that Varroa mites feed on bee hemolymph during their reproductive stage, which provides them with the large amounts of protein necessary for reproduction5. Their preferred feeding site is the sternite of the second abdominal segment, where hemolymph is more accessible5. After feeding, the foundress mite defecates on the cell wall near the feeding site. This is referred to as the “fecal accumulation site” and will be where the mating of her offspring occurs6

Day 3: First egg laid (male)

Approximately 60 hours after the cell is capped, the foundress mite lays her first egg, which is unfertilized and develops into a male. The male mite is pear-shaped, smaller than the females, and light yellow in color6

Honey bee brood infested with Varroa mites by Paul Kozak

Capped brood with a good brood pattern by Kayla DeJong

Day 5: Second egg laid (female)

Around 30 hours after the first egg, the foundress mite lays a second egg, which is fertilized and develops into a female. Throughout this process, the mites continue to feed on the bee larva.

Varroa mites go through two nymphal stages before reaching maturity: protonymph and deutonymph6. Female protonymphs have a round body shape and are off-white in color, while female deutonymphs have an oval body shape, similar to adults, and begin to show some reddish-brown color. The male mite's body shape remains the same throughout the stages but becomes slightly larger.

Day 7: Third egg laid (female)

The foundress mite continues to lay eggs at roughly 30-hour intervals, with subsequent eggs typically being all female7

Day 10-12: Male and first female mature

Varroa mites take approximately six days to reach sexual maturity. Once mature, the male waits in the fecal accumulation site for approximately 20 hours while his sisters mature6.

Day 12-14: Mating occurs

Mating is initiated by the pheromones produced by female mites during the final stages of their development8. The mature male mates with the first mature female multiple times at the fecal accumulation site, until the next female arrives6. Over those first 24 hours, the female sex pheromones gradually decrease, signaling the male to move on to the newly matured female8. This ensures the male mates with the greatest number of females.

Day 21-24: Bee emergence

An adult worker bee emerges from the cell on day 21, and a drone on day 24, bringing with them mature female mites that are ready to infest new brood or adult bees. Male and immature mites generally die, as they cannot survive outside the capped cell6. A study by Häußermann et al. (2020) found that unmated female mites can also exit the brood cell alongside their mated sisters and produce offspring9. These unmated females’ offspring will be male and have been found to occasionally mate with them. However, these females do not significantly contribute to the overall mite population9

Dispersal (phoretic) phase

After emerging from the brood cell, female mites attach to adult bees and feed on their fat bodies10,5. Rasool (2023) discovered that phoretic female mites are most attracted to adult drones and nurse bees, likely due to the nurse bees' close proximity to the brood and the fact that neither drones nor nurse bees undertake foraging flights, which could pose risks to the mites3.

The bee's fat tissue offers significantly better nutrition to mites than hemolymph. However, this raises a question: why don't the foundress and developing mites consume fat while in the capped brood cell? Han et al. (2024) explain that during the pupal stage, hemolymph is more readily available, while the fat body develops gradually and only becomes abundant when the pupa is nearly ready to emerge5

The duration of the phoretic phase varies and can last for months, though its exact role in the mite’s lifecycle remains unclear. A study by Piou et al. (2016) suggests that this phase does not play a crucial role for mite reproduction and may only serve as a means for mites to move into a new brood cell11. However, Xianbing et al. (2016) found that phoretic mites hosted by nurse bees exhibited higher fecundity compared to those feeding on newly emerged bees and older forager bees, possibly because nurse bees provide better nutrition12

Varroa mite on drone by Emily Olson

Varroa mite on newly emerged bee by Heather Anderson

Adult and maturing varroa mites by Paul Kozak

Further research is essential to better understand the phoretic phase, as it is during this stage that current treatments target and kill mites. Refining our understanding of the phoretic stage could help us optimize existing methods or develop new approaches to more effectively disrupt the mite's lifecycle, offering better protection for bee colonies against this pervasive pest.

The Varroa mite lifecycle is intricately linked to that of the honey bee, making it essential to understand the specific mechanisms and timing of their development. A deeper knowledge into the mites' behavior, biology, and vulnerabilities could significantly enhance the development of more precise, effective, and sustainable management strategies and treatment options.

Resources:

[1] Roth, M.A., Gross, A.D., Wilson, J.M. "Varroa Mite Biology and Feeding Damage." Department of Entomology, Virginia Tech. www.ento.vt.edu/the-bee-group-at-vt/beekeeping/mites1.html.

[2] Aurori, Cristian M., et al. "Juvenile Hormone Pathway in Honey Bee Larvae: A Source of Possible Signal Molecules for the Reproductive Behavior of Varroa destructor." Ecology and Evolution, vol. 11, no. 2, 2021, pp. 1057-1068.

[3] Rasool, Bilal, et al. "Varroa Mite Reproductive Success Is Driven by Host-Specific Factors." Journal of Invertebrate Pathology, 2023.

[4] Nazzi, Francesco, et al. "Octanoic Acid Confers to Royal Jelly Varroa-Repellent Properties." Naturwissenschaften, vol. 96, 2009, pp. 309-314.

[5] Han, B., Wu, J., Wei, Q., et al. "Life-History Stage Determines the Diet of Ectoparasitic Mites on Their Honey Bee Hosts." Nature

Communications, vol. 15, 2024, article 725, doi:10.1038/ s41467-024-44915-x.

[6] Rosenkranz, P., Aumeier, P., Ziegelmann, B. "Biology and Control of Varroa destructor." Journal of Invertebrate Pathology, vol. 103, suppl., 2010, pp. S96-S119, doi:10.1016/j. jip.2009.07.016.

[7] Martin, Stephen J. "Ontogenesis of the Mite Varroa jacobsoni Oud. in Worker Brood of the Honeybee Apis mellifera L. under Natural Conditions." Experimental & Applied Acarology, vol. 18, no. 2, 1994, pp. 87-100.

[8] Ziegelmann, Bettina, et al. "The Mating Behavior of Varroa destructor Is Triggered by a Female Sex Pheromone: Part 1: Preference Behavior of Male Mites in a Laboratory Bioassay." Apidologie, vol. 44, 2013, pp. 314-323.

[9] Häußermann, Claudia Katharina, et al. "Reproductive Parameters of Female Varroa destructor and the Impact of Mating in Worker Brood of Apis mellifera." Apidologie, vol. 51, 2020, pp. 342-355.

[10] Ramsey, S.D., et al. "Varroa destructor Feeds Primarily on Honey Bee Fat Body Tissue and Not Hemolymph." Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, vol. 116, 2019, pp. 17921801.

[11] Piou, V., et al. "Impact of the Phoretic Phase on Reproduction and Damage Caused by Varroa destructor to Its Host, the European Honey Bee (Apis mellifera)." PLoS ONE, vol. 11, no. 4, 2016, doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0153482.

[12] Xianbing, et al. "Host-Dependent Reproductive Success of Varroa destructor Mites in Relation to Honey Bee Health." Journal of Apicultural Research, vol. 55, no. 1, 2016, pp. 105-

Sharing practical knowledge & expertise, beekeeper to beekeeper

The theme for this year’s conference is ‘Bee 2 BeeSharing Practical Knowledge and Expertise, Beekeeper to Beekeeper’ and we’re pleased to present an engaging line-up of speakers and presenters who will address key topics including:

Latest in honey bee health research

Pesticides, bees and honey

Measuring the economic threshold of your beekeeping operation

Forage & bee nutrition: Impacts of changing environmental conditions and bee nutrition

Plastic waste in the beekeeping industry

Sustainable agriculture: evolving trends & consumer behaviors

Navigating changing labor and employment requirements

Business Risk Management programs

SPONSORSHIPS &

DR SHELLEY HOOVER

DR JUDY WU-SMART

DR RASSOL

DR RENATA LABUSCHAGNE

CARLOS PEREA

DR HEATHER BROCCARD-BELL

DR STEVE PERNAL

SAMANTHA MUIRHEAD

Join us for TWO FULL DAYS (day 2 & 3) of presentations, panel discussions, supplier showcases, networking, engaging activities and more. Connect with other beekeepers and local, national, and international industry guests at one of western Canada’s most popular beekeeping industry events. Featuring over 20 talented speakers, presenting over 20 sessions across two full days, covering the latest in honey bee health research, innovation, and industry updates.

Early Bird Tickets Now on Sale!

DAY 1: Monday, November 18, 2024 | ABC Annual General Meeting

Day ONE is the ABC Annual General Meeting (AGM). This is a closed session, only open to Eligible Producers of the Commission. The AGM is free for Eligible Producers and is followed by a complimentary drinks reception. Please visit: https://www.albertabeekeepers.ca/about/2023-abcannual-general-meeting/ for more information.

DAY 2 & 3: Tuesday and Wednesday, November 19 & 20, 2024

YOUR 2-DAY DELEGATE PASS INCLUDES:

• Two days of engaging presentations and panel discussions on the latest in honey bee health research, innovation, industry updates and more.

• Breakfast, breaks, and lunch each day.

• Access to the trade show with over 28 exhibitors showcasing the latest in equipment, supplies and innovative beekeeping solutions.

• Opportunity to network with delegates, speakers, and suppliers from across the industry, and take advantage of special supplier offers.

NEW THIS YEAR!

President’s Banquet

Join us this year for a new dining event experience that combines the traditional format of the President’s Luncheon with the fun, networking, and entertainment of the hospitality night and live auction.

Tickets to this event are sold separately and can be added to your purchase when buying your conference tickets here: https://www.albertabeekeepers.ca/newevnts/2024-abc -agm-conference-trade-show/2024-conference-tickets/

Drones Hockey Game

Always a highlight of the conference, this FREE activity is open to all guests at the conference, and we encourage you to bring your hockey gear and join in the competitive fun!

2023’s game featured the ‘Beekeepers’ vs. the ‘Rogers Beets’, with each player receiving a custom one-of-a-kind jersey to commemorate the game.

This action-packed scrimmage game takes place on-site at the West Edmonton Mall Ice Palace, located directly onsite at the hotel, on Wednesday, November 20, at 8.00am.

Take the opportunity to join your fellow beekeepers for a great game of hockey followed by a delicious hot breakfast back at the hotel. All beekeepers and conference attendees welcome to participate.

Please register your participation now at: https://www.albertabeekeepers.ca/newevents/2024abc-agm-conference-trade-show/drones-hockey-game/

Sponsored by:

Protecting Canadian Honey Markets both Domestic and Export

By Connie Phillips, Executive Director, Alberta Beekeepers Commission

Beekeeping and honey production are important economic drivers of Alberta’s economy as beekeeping fills a key role in crop production through pollination services while generating revenues through the sale of honey in both the export and domestic markets.

Alberta beekeepers produce high-quality, authentic honey products. Competitive pressure is ongoing from low-cost, low-quality, and potentially fraudulent imported products. In addition, there has been a trend in the distribution channels over the past decade to market Alberta honey as a blended low-cost commodity, rather than as a premium quality pure Albertan and Canadian product.

The global honey market size was valued at USD 9,01B in 2022 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 5.3% from 2023 to 2030. Honey is an excellent source of numerous nutritional constituents including vitamins, minerals, enzymes and antioxidants. High demand for nutritious food products is a prominent factor driving the market as people increasingly become more aware of the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. Growing health concerns in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic could be a game-changer for the honey sector. Due to its antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal properties, honey is receiving appreciation and wider acceptance as an effective ‘medicine’ to treat acute cough and throat infections.

Honey can be used in beverages, processed foods, jams, and jellies and is increasingly used as an ingredient in health and beauty products. The easy availability of a wide range of these products, coupled with the product’s ability to impart a desirable taste in food and beverage products, is aiding the market demand. Moreover, honey contains a number of health benefits, including the ability to boost metabolic activity, control blood pressure, lower the risk of diabetes, and even treat burn wounds. Thus, it is widely used in many applications apart from food and beverages, such as cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, which is also estimated to augment market growth.

Source: https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-

analysis/jellies-gummies-market

At the 2023 ABC Annual General Meeting strategic planning session, producers, board and staff worked together to update the Commission’s strategic plan. One of the key strategic priorities that was identified through this process was to improve the market position and profile of Alberta honey, both domestically and internationally. This key strategic priority focuses on several existing and emerging challenges producers face in domestic and global honey markets.

Three resolutions directly relating improving the market position and profile of Alberta honey were passed as the 2023 AGM, including Protecting Canadian Honey Markets both Domestic and Export. This resolution identified some of the challenges and threats currently facing the industry and outlined strategies to begin addressing these issues.

In addition to the development of a unique value proposition for Alberta honey, exploring the development a meaningful set of standards that elevate the value of pure Canadian honey over imported and blended honey, together with new impactful marketing strategies must be developed.

The beekeeping industry has begun exploring the possibility of implementing a levy on honey through the Farm Products Council checkoff program because beekeepers are frustrated. We have increasing costs and decreasing prices for honey. While Canadian honey used to command a premium price, this has evaporated in most markets. With a checkoff the industry would have considerable money to pursue an updated marketing strategy to counter decline in prices we have seen for Canadian honey.

In the interest of looking into the effectiveness of marketing strategies, the Commission has been looking at what has been done in the past and how effective (or not) it has been.

In 2018 the Canadian Honey Council’s (CHC) new strategic

plan set a goal of increasing honey export markets by 10%. The Commission asked CHC to provide an update on this goal. Despite this optimism and an investment of approximately $200,000 between 2016 - 2023 in marketing by the CHC in the U.S., middle east, and Europe, sales of Canadian honey in export markets have declined.

A more dynamic marketing strategy that positions Canadian

honey as a premium product, highlighting its health benefits, rather than positioning Canadian honey as a low-cost commodity is needed.

As new standards of identity, more accurate and rigorous testing are put in place which not only verify purity but also Canadian honey’s unique attributes and nutraceutical value, a dynamic new marketing strategy must also be developed.

Ditch the drizzle:

By Rusty Burlew https://www.honeybeesuite.com/comb-honey-a-comeback-from-the-past/

The comb honey era

What beekeepers call the “comb honey era” occurred from 1880 to 1915. Historians tell us comb honey became wildly popular after some enterprising beekeepers began extending their harvests with sugar syrup. As a result, consumers wanted a tamper-resistant natural product, so they opted for comb honey instead of the extracted stuff, creating a surge in production. During those years, comb honey was everywhere.

But later, after the implementation of pure food laws in the U.S., extracted honey became more accepted. In addition, extracted honey became substantially cheaper as extractors improved and modern beekeeping techniques favored reusing the waxen honeycombs. Although comb honey has seen several short-term revivals since the early 1900s, overall it quietly slipped away from stores, farm stands, and the American conscience.

By the 1950s, suburban families abandoned comb honey just as they forsook cream-topped milk, hard cider, and wilted dandelion greens. They quickly replaced the unique experience of comb honey with “honey-flavored” breakfast fare, as if honey had only one taste.

Comb honey is especially good with savory crackers and your favorite cheese.

Cheese and honey: When I’m serving samples, I usually put the comb honey on a piece of cheese with a cracker. Be flexible because some people like to skip the cheese. Rusty Burlew

First you see it, then you don’t

Decades later, when I couldn’t buy comb honey at any price, I decided to make it myself. Having no interest in extracting honey, saving the bees, or pollinating plants, I approached the project with laser focus. With lots of luck but no training, no mentor, and no fear of failure, I produced dozens of Kelley squares (called sections) in my very first year.

From there, I experimented with Ross Rounds, Eco Bee Boxes, and homemade supers of wooden squares designed and built by a friend. They all worked, so I tried Hogg half-comb cassettes and a Romanov-style super. And when they worked too, I convinced myself I could get bees to build honeycombs in glass jars.

Despite my success, I learned that getting bees to build in little compartments is tricky business. Worse, it requires much beekeeper strategy, like keeping each colony about six minutes from swarming. Lots of bees with lots of nectar and no room to store it will build comb honey anywhere, guaranteed. But it comes at a price.

Because bees are much smarter than we think, learning to read their minds is exhausting. And despite mucho conniving, some swarms get away, dashing our hopes of filling more of those cute little cubicles and making us feel stupid. Losing a mind game to a bee is humiliating.

The sea change

Then, after years of fiddling with little compartments, everything changed for me in one afternoon. I had left some random equipment on a hive stand — the farthest one from my house — and forgot about it until a swarm moved in. The stack was simply a deep brood box on a bottom board with an empty shallow super (no frames) above the brood box. Topping the whole thing was a warped inner cover. That’s it.

The bees had set up house in the brood box and were using the hole in the inner cover as their entrance. But to my surprise, they had repurposed the empty shallow into a bespoke honey super.

Without frames to guide them, the bees made a magnificent waxen sculpture with curves and arches and serpentine connections. Buttresses, vaults, and spires reached into all corners of the box and every cell was brimming with capped honey. When I lifted it from the hive, the super felt heavy, like a sack of concrete.

The swirled maze of beeswax contained the most fragrant comb honey I’d ever eaten. It was soft and ethereal with no chewy foundation, not even starter strips. There were no wax-heavy corners or propolis-reinforced connections. The only attachments were the ones the bees chose, so the ratio of wax to honey was low.

And what had I done to get this perfectly delicious, totally natural, and superbly lovely mass of comb honey? Nothing.

Chili and comb honey: You can find many surprising but delicious uses for comb honey. Here, it tops a bowl of hot chili. I also like it on salads or apple slices. Rusty Burlew

Letting the bees decide

After that day, I never went back to the labor-intensive little boxes, and I stopped keeping my bees on the verge of swarming. I switched to a pared-down comb honey method that doesn’t require special equipment or expertise: It’s so simple that any first-year beekeeper can do it.

Fifteen years ago, you could still buy standard-shaped frames that fit the Kelley comb-honey supers. They were shorter than regular shallow frames, measuring only 4.5 inches high, but they were perfect because you could cut one frame of honey into four square pieces.2 I loved the convenience of those Kelley supers because, depending on colony strength, you could choose either the square sections or the plain frames.

So, I ordered oodles of those frames and made the easiest, tastiest, most seductive comb honey ever. I simply topped spring colonies with a queen excluder and a Kelley super containing the standard-shaped frames, each outfitted with a narrow starter strip of thin surplus foundation.

In addition, I drilled a one-inch entrance hole in each honey super so the nectar receivers didn’t need to carry their load through the hive or squeeze themselves through the excluder. As a bonus, this technique keeps pollen-colored footprints from marring the wax cappings.

Quality comb with minimal effort

To make the best quality comb honey, I checked the supers often and removed any fully capped frames. With section boxes, this step was onerous, but with standard-shaped frames, I simply shook the bees from the finished frames, pushed the rest toward the center, and added new frames on the sides.

I froze the newly harvested frames overnight to dispatch any wax moth eggs and larvae. After the combs thawed to room temperature, I cut the comb free of the frame and made three crosscuts with dental floss. Then I let the pieces drip on a cooling rack before packaging.

Once spring nectar flows subsided and comb building slowed down, I removed the comb honey supers, which also removed the upper entrances. In their place, I added standard extracting supers where bees could place their winter stores. Because upper entrances can be a boon in fast times but a detriment in dearth, the timing for using them coincides perfectly with comb honey season.

Why comb honey tastes special

Each cell within a comb of honey differs from its neighbor. An assortment of bees collected the nectar from separate flowers. And even though all the flowers may be fireweed, and all the bees may be sisters (or half-sisters), the plants grew in different soils, each with a unique selection of microbes and nutrients.

The plants received various amounts of water and sun and heat. The bees, although genetically similar, are not genetically identical. Their enzyme levels fluctuate, foraging preferences differ, and even their metabolic processes vary. Each of these variables, and others, change the flavor of honey.

Foundation in a jar: Mason jar honey didn’t work well for me. I got some partial combs of honey, but the closed tops make it hard for bees to get rid of moisture. Also, the method I used required lots of foundation, which I don’t like. Rusty Burlew

The next day’s harvest may come from disparate flowers, fields, or a new selection of bees. Nothing stays the same, meaning each cell of honey is unique. Each contains a flavor history of the colony’s activity for that day or that hour. Each cell records a unique assemblage of nectars that may never happen again, not exactly. The joy is in tasting the flower record stored in those cells and comparing the flavors in different cells.

Mixing honey conceals the flavors

The easiest and quickest way to conceal those unique flavors is to mix them together. Inside an extractor, the low notes offset the high notes. The ephemeral taste of one delicate nectar gets burdened by a robust and overbearing one. What flows from the container often has the muddy brown flavor of supermarket honey, sometimes with overtones of plastic bear.

As a comparison, imagine taking your box of crayons and melting them in a big pot. Toss in those labeled dandelion, maize, eggplant, Prussian blue, and thistle. And don’t forget magic mint, mulberry, and raw umber. Use all of them. In the end, you get a nondescript brown. The brightness and personality of each color flattens into the mix.

The taste of supermarket honey is equally bland and unexceptional. We instantly recognize the taste, just as we recognize the taste of hamburger meat or noodle soup, but the flavor is not thrilling or memorable. Honey from one jar tastes much like honey from any jar, but honey directly from a comb is an experience, a wonderment, a communion with nature. Each cell contains a unique time capsule of flavor.

Cutting with dental floss: Knives tend to squish the comb, whereas dental floss or buttonhole thread will give you a perfect cut every time. Cross the threads and pull evenly, just as if you were cutting rolled cookie dough. Rusty Burlew

Don’t confuse business with pleasure

Am I saying we should never extract honey? Of course not. Separating honey with a centrifugal extractor is a commercial/ industrial process designed to efficiently handle large volumes, and it has a vital place in agribusiness. After all, we need tons of extracted honey to make things like breakfast cereal, graham crackers, and baked hams. And don’t forget, it plays an everincreasing role in the fast-food industry: Honey-glazed entrees and single-serving packets of honey mixed with high-fructose corn syrup make their way into countless restaurants and takeout sacks.

We need these products. But what comes from an extractor has been processed. The honey was handled, mixed, exposed to air, strained, bottled, and sometimes heated, degrading it at every step. Although this product is perfect for processed food where honey is not the main event, it was never meant for the honey connoisseur or the backyard beekeeper with just a few hives.

So far, I have never run a single frame of my honey through an extractor. That’s right. Not one. If I need liquid honey for a recipe or a finicky guest, I simply press some out with a fork. No big deal. When I want to sell honey, I offer it in the comb. I’ve sold out every time, sometimes before extending all four legs of the display table.

Comb honey is in high demand

Many people believe there is no demand for comb honey, but that’s only because people are unfamiliar with it. You can easily create demand by giving away samples. Usually, I prepare a grainy cracker topped with goat cheese and a sliver of honeycomb. People are astonished to learn that honeycomb eaten with other food is not chewy, does not stick to your teeth, and does not encourage spitting. It just slides right down. If I

serve one square of comb honey on cheese and crackers to a group, I can sell dozens to first-time buyers.

If you skip this step, the people who fear consuming a waxy glob will walk away. But when they try it with other food, they become hooked. Besides giving samples, I provide a glossy business card with “directions” for eating comb honey printed on the back.3 After that, I can price it how I like. Being both scarce and delicious makes it valuable.

Incredibly, demand has increased lately in certain urban areas where upscale restaurants serve comb honey on the cheese plate. Often considered a luxury item, it commands commensurate prices. And believe me, if wads of beeswax caused the clientele to spit, those toney restaurants would not serve it on a fancy silver platter beside a flute of champagne. No way.

Trust me on this. Just remember one golden rule: Always serve comb honey with food, never, ever by itself.

Perfect honey, strange comb: Sometimes foundationless frames yield strange shapes. This honey was perfect, but the cells had radically different depths. Rusty Burlew

A common beekeeper objection

Many beekeepers who dismiss comb honey insist that wax combs are too valuable to eat and should be preserved. Yes, combs are valuable and they require lots of bee energy to make. So if value-subtracted honey is your goal, by all means, save those combs.

But on a purely dollars-and-cents basis, if you weigh the beeswax in, say, a Kelley square, and calculate what that beeswax would bring if you rendered and sold it, its street value is negligible. The tiny amount of beeswax in a Kelley square is nearly worthless, but the comb and honey combination is priceless.

Even considering the energy invested in comb-building, the “too-valuable-to-eat” argument remains specious because comb honey isn’t an all-or-nothing decision. If you harvest only one super of comb honey for your family and friends or harvest a couple of supers to sell at a premium, you will not doom your apiary. When selling honey, diversity is a plus.

Today’s price of comb honey

What does comb honey retail for these days? While extracted honey on average, retails for about $0.60 per ounce (In 2023, depending on your region, a 1-pound jar of extracted clover honey brought somewhere around $8-12), comb honey sells for much more. Years ago, I sold 8-ounce rounds for $12 apiece, or about $24 a pound. But now it’s around $2 per ounce or $32 a pound in urban areas. Filled Kelley squares hold about 14 ounces and easily sell for $28 at retail.

As you can see, comb honey pays well, and you don’t need to buy an extractor or mess with extracting, straining, bottling, and cleaning. I came up with the term “value-subtracted honey” after I realized all the work and expense of extracting actually lowered the street value of the crop. Although imported honey causes stiff price competition, those imports seldom, if ever, arrive in a comb.

Saying no for all

Clamshells: Fast-food clamshells work well for squares of comb honey. Customers like them because they can see all sides of the comb.

Rusty Burlew

the wrong reasons

Beekeepers espouse other arguments for not making comb honey. Besides considering it a waste of bee energy, many claim comb honey is more labor intensive and requires more experience and greater skill.

But these arguments are also weak. As I’ve shown, nearly anyone, regardless of their experience, can make comb honey in a simple shallow frame; and a super or two of comb honey will not break the beeswax bank.

A third myth says comb honey doesn’t last as long as extracted honey. I see this argument frequently, but it’s not true. Just so I could say so, I recently opened a comb of honey that was stored in its original Kelley section box on the top shelf of my dusty cupboard for 17 years. It was perfect: still liquid and delicious.

I realize this wouldn’t apply to touchy honey like Canola, which can crystallize before it leaves the field, but a blanket statement that comb honey doesn’t last long is false. Opening the cells allows dust, wax, and other particles to seed the honey, whereas leaving it sealed does not. Bees are much better at storing and preserving honey than we are, so sometimes it’s best to give them the last word.

My suggestion for you

If you are a beekeeper who has never attempted comb honey, please give it a try. If you’ve never eaten comb honey with food, try that too. There is no reason you can’t dedicate at least one super — or even just one frame — to learning what it’s all about.

If we beekeepers could reignite an appetite for comb honey, we would be doing everyone a favor, including ourselves. Just think: Extracted honey is still a long way from $2 per ounce, and more imported honey is on the way.

Rusty Burlew Honey Bee Suite

This article first appeared in American Bee Journal, Volume 164 No. 1, January 2024, pp. 41-45..

The PAm Bellows Award Competition Runner Up: “The Alberta Technology Transfer Program"

By the ABC Alberta Tech Transfer Program (TTP) https://youtu.be/YhdF3iZ6HX8?si=GFIJVvUmEbUpDnga

The ABC Alberta Tech Transfer Program (TTP) team recently submitted an entry to the PAm Bellows Award Competition. The winners have been announced we’re pleased to say that the TTP’s submission received recognition as a runner up in this inaugural competition.

The Project Apis m. Bellows Award is a story telling competition that aims to recognize and share the stories of North American beekeepers contributing to research, management, or other honey bee related innovation.

Please take a moment to view the TTP’s video entry below and learn more about how the TTP supports beekeepers througheducation, extension, and research to improve beekeeping practices and promote healthier, more productive bee colonies province wide.

2024 Tropilaelaps Training in Thailand

By Project Apis m. https://youtu.be/AaEo9SYGQ5U?si=kpTcW7pd-tQMtPaY

Join us on an incredible journey as Auburn University and Apiary Inspectors travel to Thailand to begin the 2024 Tropilaelaps Training! This important work is made possible by funding from the National Honey Board and the North Dakota Department of Agriculture, and Bayer Healthy Hives, administered by Project Apis m., with in-kind support from Auburn University, Chiang Mai University, and the Apiary Inspectors of America.

In this trailer, you’ll get a sneak peek into the hands-on training sessions held at Chiang Mai University’s Faculty of Agriculture, where participants learned about the identification, management, and impacts of the Tropilaelaps mite. These parasites pose a significant threat to the U.S. beekeeping industry, and this training is a crucial step in developing a proactive response.

The full documentary will be coming soon!

Recipe courtesy of Six Sisters' Stuff https://www.sixsistersstuff.com/recipe/honey-candy/

Recipe of the Month Honey Candy Homemade

It is delicious, and it’s fun to make!

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups melted honey

• 1 cup cream

• 1 cup sugar

• butter (or butter-flavored cooking spray)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Combine the first 3 ingredients and cook slowly on medium heat until it forms a hard ball when you drop it into ice water. It took me about an hour.

2. As the mixture gets close to being done, the bubbles from the boil will get a lot smaller and closer together. Pour the mixture onto a buttered cooking sheet. When cooled, pull with buttered hands. Stretch, twist and pull until firm (this is the fun part! ;)) and then form into long ropes and place on waxed paper.

3. Cut into bite size pieces. If you want, you can roll them in powdered sugar and wrap them in wax paper.

PLEASANT VALLEY HONEY LTD.(SW 15-4627-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.

Classifieds

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

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

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

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 full-time 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

a r n i o l a n q u e e n s

V A I L A B L E N O W !

7 8 0 - 9 6 0 - 8 0 1 0

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 full-time 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

located 7 km SW of Eatonia, Saskatchewan, requires 3 APIARY TECHNICIANS, NOC84120 for the 2025 season.  Must have a minimum of 3 years experience in a Canadian Commercial Apiary.  Full time (40 hours per week) seasonal employment from March to September, 2025.  Wage start at $18.00 to $21.00 per hour, depending on experience, with  possible bonuses.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 K o n a I t a l i a n &

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.

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

Classifieds

EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT

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.

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 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

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.

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.

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 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

EMPLOYMENT

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

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 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

Classifieds

EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT

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

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 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

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 APIARYTECHNICIANS (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

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 fast-paced 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

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 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.

Classifieds

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 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

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 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

Classifieds

EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT

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.

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 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

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

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.

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, 2024. Applicants must be able to work in the presence of honeybees

Apiary worker duties:

Caring for honeybee colonies. Assisting technicians with bees and equipment, assisting with harvesting honey, beeswax and pollen. Assisting with beeyard & equipment maintenance. Conduct beeyard maintenance.

EMPLOYMENT

Some Apiary Technicians may be required to spend 3-4 months out of province to BC (March-June) as bees may be moved to BC for spring pollination services and return to AB mid-June. Room and board will be provided for employees working in BC. Must be able to travel out of province. English an asset. No skills or education required. All positions may require some evening, night and weekend work. All applicants must be in good physical condition and have the ability to handle heavy loads, bending, crouching, kneeling. Accomm provided. Rural area. Apply: info@paradishoney.com or mail to Paradis Honey Ltd, c/o Lise Paradis Box 99, Girouxville, AB T0H 1S0

SEVERSON HONEY FARM

at 48143 Range Rd 204 Camrose, AB is seeking for the 2025 season from Feb – Nov 1: 8 APIARY WORKERS (NOC 85100) with a mininimum of 1-year experience, wages starting at $17.44/hr & 7 APIARY TECHNICIANS (NOC 84120) with a min of 2-3 years experience, wage starting at $18.44/hr. These positions are fulltime 40+ hrs/ week & may req. some evening,night, weekend work. Work involves care of honey bees for honey production & pollination services. All applicants must be physically fit & be able to perform work in a team environment. On farm accomm are avail. Wages are negotiable depending on experience. Please send resume to Russell at rads@netkaster.ca Cell 780-608-0076.

WORKER BEE HONEY COMPANY

APIARY TECHNICIAN NOC 84120 (6 seasonal positions available, January to November 2024) - $18.00/ hour plus bonus for superior work. Duties include caring for honeybee colonies; recognizing and monitoring hive issues; supervising 2-4 Apiary Workers; harvesting, extracting and packaging honey, beeswax and pollen; using power tools; and maintaining field and/or production records, including using an online app. Three years’ experience required in a Canadian-style commercial apiary.

Classifieds

EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT

- $16.75/hour plus bonus for superior work. Duties include harvesting and extracting honey, pollen and beeswax. Minimum six months’ experience in a Canadian-style commercial apiary.

APIARY WORKER NOC 85100 (8 seasonal positions available, February to October 2024)

- $16.75/hour plus bonus for superior work. Duties include caring for honeybee colonies; harvesting honey, pollen and beeswax.

55 USG Open Head

20 gauge body & lid lever locking closure & epoxy phenolic lining also available in 5/8” bolt & ring FDA Approved

involve standing/bending/crouching for long periods; heavy lifting; repetitive tasks; working outdoors in the heat in a rural environment; driving and maintaining farm equipment (class 5 driver’s license required, class 3 preferred); 40-70 hours per week including evenings, weekends and overtime as required, as well as ability to work in a team environment and show attention to detail. Positions are in Rosedale, British Columbia with summer months spent in Boyle, Alberta. Accommodation provided at both locations. Worker Bee Honey Company Ltd. 10609 McGrath Road, Rosedale, BC V0X 1X2 tel: 604-794-3315; fax: 604794-3085; jobs@workerbeehoney.ca

GOOD

MORNING

HONEY

APIARY WORKER NOC 85100 (8 seasonal positions available, February to October 2024) - $16.75/hour plus bonus for superior work. Duties include caring for honeybee colonies; harvesting honey, pollen and beeswax. Minimum one year experience required in a Canadian-style commercial apiary.

APIARY HARVESTER NOC 85101 (8 seasonal positions available, February to October 2024)

Minimum one year experience required in a Canadian-style commercial apiary.

APIARY HARVESTER NOC 85101 (8 seasonal positions available, February to October 2024)

- $16.75/hour plus bonus for superior work. Duties include harvesting and extracting honey, pollen and beeswax. Minimum six months’ exp in a Canadian-style commercial apiary.

APIARY MANAGERS NOC 80020 (3 positions ongoing with aim of being permanent)$18.50+/hour plus bonus for superior work. Duties involve understanding all the positions above as well as having the ability to plan the work load and manage 5-10 workers in a specific area of the operation as the lead worker All positions are physically demanding and

LTD. in Parkland County, AB (51516RR15) is looking for: (2) APIARY TECHNICIANS ($17-$20/hr depending on expierience NOC8431 for employment during March thru October 2024 season. The positions are 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 Technician must have a minimum of three years experience in a Canadian commercial apiary working as an Apiary Technician or Apiary worker. Experience required in hive management for honey production, disease diagnosis, general hive health and mite threshold monitoring. Applicants must be in good physical condition. A valid driver's license is an asset. We also require (3) APIARY WORKERS ($16 -$19/hr depending on exp) NOC8431 with employment during March thru October 2024 season. The positions are 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 Worker MUST be able to work in the presence of honey bees and will assist with colony management as well as honey extraction. Applicants must be in good physical condition and have a minimum 1+ year experience working 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

EMPLOYMENT

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.

YAREMCIO HONEY is seeking 12 full time seasonal Apiary Technicians (NOC 84120) for the 2025 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 $17.44 - $30.00 per hour. Contact: yaremciohoney.apply@hotmail.com

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EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT

One of these positions is from February 2024 thru June 2024. The other two positions are from February 2024 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

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.

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, 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.

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 Feb 2024 thru Oct 2024. All 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. Email resumes to: info@nixonhoney.ca or mail to: Nixon Honey Farm, #20, 35566 RR 263, Red Deer County, Alberta, T4G 0C9

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 harvesting, 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.

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

Classifieds EMPLOYMENT

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

P & J APIARIES INC. - We are seeking interested applicants in the Westlock County area for the following positions, including...

- (10) APIARY TECHNICIAN(s) (NOC 84120) $17.44$22.00/hr. depending on experience for full time (50+ hrs/wk) employment February thru October 2025.  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, Summer, Fall management of bee colonies, bee health monitoring, feeding, honey production and harvest, maintaining quality control/production, and safety records,

EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT

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 2025.  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.  All positions may require some evening & weekend work.  All applicants must be in good physical conditions and able to work in a 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-(We are seeking interested applicants in the Westlock County area for the following positions, including...

- ( 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 2025. 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.)

Classifieds

EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT

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

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 2025 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 positions fall under NOC:85100- $17.44/ 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

NOLTE APIARIES 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 not required. Salary $17.44 to $24/hr. Job duties: bee colony management, honey harvesting. Seeking 10 Apiary workers NOC 85100 wage $17.44-$22/hr. 1yr experience & education not required. Job duties assist with bee colony management & honey harvesting. Seeking 6 Apiary labourers wage $17.44-$20/ hr. No experience, no education. Job duties honey harvesting. All positions manufacturing & assemble hive equipment & handle heavy loads. March to November 2025. 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 5010-49th 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 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

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

SUPERNUC APIARIES located near Granum, AB (251032 TWP RD 104) has the following positions for the 2025 season. APIARY WORKERS (NOC 85100) 3 positions: starting at $17.44 - $21.00/hr, needed full time (45+ hrs/ wk) from Mar 1, 2025 through October 31, 2025. Apiary workers must have a minimum of 1 season full time experience in a Canadian commercial apiary. Duties include assisting 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. Accomodations 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.

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.

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 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.

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 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

Classifieds

EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT FOR SALE

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

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

SEVERSON HONEY FARM at 48143 Range Rd

204 Camrose, AB, requires 3 Apiary Supervisors /Forman (NOC 82030) for the 2025 year. Must have a minimum of 5 years experience in commercial beekeeping, wages start at $17–$23 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 fulltime 40+ hrs/week. On farm accomm available. Please send resume to Russell at rads@netkaster.ca 780-608-0076

BLISSFUL BEE APIARY LTD.

Located at 6308 HWY 624 Tomahawk Alberta, T0E 2H0 Is seeking 2 APIARY WORKERS (NOC 85100) from April 1. 2024 to October 31, 2024. Full time seasonal employment . (40+hours/week, wages start at $17.44/hour Duties include: 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

APIARY SUPERVISOR WITH EXTRA SKILLS: SPIRIT

HILLS

SERVICES is looking for a fulltime Apiary Supervisor with wine making skills and orchard management skills. This position requires good knowledge of apiary management, and the wine making & fermentation process; with a minimum of 1 year experience. Also must be able to drive forklift, bobcat and other equipment, and be skilled in orchard care. Supervising, coaching and teaching skills are important to be successful in this position. Given the difficulty of producing flower wine, a well developed palate is essential. A good working knowledge of English is also essential. Wages will range between $23 and $25 per hour, depending on experience. To apply for this position please email hugo@ spirithillswinery.com, and include a full resume, cover letter and references. ALL qualified applicants will be considered. Interested persons indicating the required experience will be contacted for an interview.

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

USED POLLEN TRAPS FOR SALE

Used pollen traps for sale @ $10 per piece. There are 1133 boxes, and 1190 trays for in the boxes. Seller: Severson Honey Farm Contact #: 780-608-0076.

Contact email: rads@netkaster.ca or sarah. seversonhoney@gmail.com

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

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

FOR SALE IN WINFIELD AREA

**Kelly honey super elevator

**1000 lb Dadant ss cone bottom honey tank with removable ss inverted cone top filter, cover and honey gate

**metal tank stand for above at height accommodating table top or barrel fill

**Dadant ss 60 frame DC extractor with controller One hundred percent of sale proceeds will be donated to Doctors Without Borders

We would prefer to sell all four items as a block. We, Tom and Suzanne, can be contacted at norbuckhoney@gmail.com

USED BEEKEEPING EQUIPMENT FOR SALE

Hive Equipment:

Full Size 10 Frame Supers, Bottom Boards, 10 Frame Hive Covers, Inner Covers, Entrance Reducers, Reflective Winter Wraps, 10 Frame Metal Queen Excluders, Feeder Top Boxes, Feeder Pails with Lids, 4 Frame Nuc Boxes Plastic, 4 Frame Nuc Boxes Wooden, Mite Grids.

Tools and Protection: Full Body Protective Suit, Bee Keeping Jackets – plus more items…

Harvesting and Processing: Maxant 3100C Spinner and Stand, Electric Honey Uncapping Knife, Uncapping Fork. Please see full ad at: https://www.albertabeekeepers.ca classified/ used-beekeeping-equipment-for-sale/ D. Christensen, Contact #: 403-828-2437, dachristensen4@gmail.com

PARADIS VALLEY HONEY LTD.

Has the folllowing for sale: 400- 5 frame Bee Nucs available. $325.00 each (minimum purchase 2. IMPORTANT: **Nucs must be picked up **Pick up available in April-May-June in either Watino AB or Aldergrove BC **Discount of $25/nuc available on large quantity (100+) orders Call Danny for more info: 780-837-0302.

Classifieds

MEIJER HONEY FARM: FOR SALE 10 frame splits made in June from Saskatraz stock. Only frames and bees. $350 1st week of May they should have 4-6 frames of brood. Strong double brood chamber hives. $500 5 frame nucs with 2024 queens available end of Maybeginning of June 250. Purchase large quantities we can negotiate price Contact Joe 403-364-2179

5 FRAME NUCS:

Golden Ears Apiaries Inc is selling 5 frame Nucs with 2024 queen available now onwards $300. We also make Nucs in your equipment. $300 Overwintered doubles also for sale. Call for pricing. 778 882-6254 serious inquiries only… no Sunday calls. Business hours only please.

THRIVE HONEY INC – COALDALE AB

4-5 frame Nucs. $300/nuc for orders of 10 or greater. Volume discounts available. Delivery can be negotiated. Limited supply, first come first serve. Email: sales@thrivehoney.ca Call: Landen 403-308-8504

LEYFIELD WINTER WRAPS. SIDES AND PILLOWS FOR FOUR PACKS. $95 OBO each (side & pillow) . Can sell pillows & sides separately if you would like. No mice damage. Andrew at Wabamun. andrewcapis@yahoo.ca.

FOR SALE: DOWNSIZING

Selling a few hundred single colonies early to mid May. 2023 Queens, mostly Maybee Apiaries (Lamont, AB) & Saskatraz stock. Treated with Thymovar and Oxalic sublimation fall of 2023 and Apivar this spring. Commercial equipment. 9 frames, super, bottom board & lid. Inspected by Alberta Agriculture. $450/unit. Price negotiable for numbers over 20. When the hives go, we will also be selling 2000 9 frame honey supers. $50/unit. Price negotiable over 50. Call or text Dave, T’N’T Apiaries, Ardmore, AB. 780-812-0011. tntbees@mcsnet.ca

400 SINGLES AVAILABLE 3RD WEEK OF MAY. $425 per colony. Boyle AB. Call Curt at 780-340-9252.

LIQUID SUGAR SYRUP TANK FOR SALE.

120,000 lb capacity

Manufactured by NRW $13,000

Contact:  Yvonne Groot 306-236-2881 (cell phone)

Located in Meadow Lake, SK