Alberta Bee News Magazine - April 2023

Alberta

BEE NEWS

Serving the interests of the beekeepers of Alberta since 1933

APRIL 2023

Alberta Bee News

April 2023

In This Issue 03 President's Report 04 - 07 Alberta Tech Transfer Program: It Takes Guts – The Honey Bee Microbiome 08 - 09 Apivar® Efficacy Testing In Alberta Using The Apiarium Method 10 2023 Conference & Trade Show - Save the Date 11 The Alberta Beekeepers Education and Enhancement Program 12 Become an Annual Supporter of the Alberta Beekeeping Industry 13 2023 ABC Bursary 13 CHC Survey: Lowbush Blueberry Pollination 14 ABF Update Corner 15 Recipe of the Month 17 - 30 Classifieds

Board of Directors President: CURTIS MIEDEMA BOX 39 SITE 11 RR1 Barrhead, AB T7N1N2 780.206.4483 miedemahoney@gmail.com

NW Region: RENE LAROCQUE RR1 Busby AB T0G 0H0 T 780.818.4268 larocquerene@hotmail.com

Vice President: LORNE PRINS RR3 Station Main Lacombe AB / T4L 2N3 780.893.2337 lorne.prins@gmail.com

Director at Large: BEVAN FORD RR1 Irma AB / T0B 2H0 780.806.1310 bevanford1976@gmail.com

Peace Region: RYAN HICKS BOX 625 McLennan AB T0H 2L0 / 780.837.0648 hicksry82@gmail.com

Director at Large: DAN PALA BOX 368 Wembley AB T0H 3S0 / 780.832.5809 d.pala@telus.net

NE Central Region: HENRY GREIDANUS 56107 Range Road 245 Sturgeon County, AB T8R 0M1 grapiaries@gmail.com

CHC Delegate: JEREMY OLTHOF RR1 Tees AB T0C 2N0 T 403.872.4607 Teesbeesinc@gmail.com

Treasurer DUSTIN RYAN 5543 Township Rd 302, Water Valley, AB T0M 2E0 dustin@fallentimbermeadery.ca CHC Director: RON GREIDANUS PO Box 581 Stettler AB T0C 2L0 / 403.323.0234 rongreidanus@gmail.com

Alberta Beekeepers Commission Fiscal Year September 1 to August 31.

Eligible Producers with 100 or more live colonies: Service Charge of $200.00 (membership fee) and $1.35 per colony (hive levy) plus GST per year.

‘Keeping In Touch’ Subscription to Alberta Bee News is open to anyone interested in the Alberta beekeeping industry $60 plus GST Alberta Bee News is published by the Alberta Beekeepers Commision.

Deadline for submissions is the 15th of each month.

Our GST Registration Number is 773740089RT0001.

For further information please contact Alberta Beekeepers Commission 11434 - 168 Street, #102, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, T5M 3T9.

Tel. 780-489-6949, Fax 780-487-8640.

Canadian Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement #476579. ISSN 1191-4599. PM40010040 The opinions expressed in the articles printed in Alberta Bee News are those of the authors and not necessarily the Alberta Beekeepers Commission. Further we do not endorse any of the products, goods or services mentioned in this publication unless specifically stated. Articles are generally published as received.

2023 Platinum Sponsors

Alberta Beekeepers Commission: 11434 - 168 Street, #102 Edmonton AB / T5M 3T9 T 780.489.6949 / F 780.487.8640 www.albertabeekeepers.ca CONNIE PHILLIPS, Executive Director C 780.289.5604 connie.phillips@albertabeekeepers.ca

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Alberta Bee News

April 2023

President's Report As we head into April, I am always a bit nervous and excited with what the bees will look like after a long Alberta winter.

It seems they have made it through the harsh conditions, and they should be good to go now but we know we aren’t completely done with the cold.

I have had a busy winter going to meetings and doing different board related trips. In early January I had the privilege of representing the Canadian Honey Council (CHC) in Florida for the American Beekeepers Federation (ABF) meeting.

CHC had a booth at the ABF trade show. The booth provided an opportunity to network and meet with beekeepers from across the U.S.. There were great topics covered by speakers ranging from foraging research to an update by Dr. Samuel Ramsey on the Tropilaelaps mite. It’s great to discuss issues and ideas with beekeepers from different regions and learn about different challenges and opportunities across our industry, and how we share some similarities, and other things are drastically different.

Later in January I was able to attend the CHC Annual General Meeting and meeting of the Canadian Association of Professional Apiculturists (CAPA) in St. John’s Newfoundland.

As a departing director of CHC it was nice to attend as we had good discussions and reports from/with researchers and industry stakeholders. It was an absolute pleasure to be a director on the CHC board, and I do feel that they have an excellent Board and Executive Director that are capable of handling whatever the industry is facing moving forward.

Then in early March, I traveled to Japan for the Food Ex show.

Here we were able to promote Canadian honey to buyers not only from Japan, but also many other countries that attended.

We handed out lots of copies of the export catalogue as well as many Canadian honey samples. I did have the privilege of meeting Mary Beth Takao who works in the Alberta Japan office, she is extremely knowledgeable and was very helpful to us. We can be thankful as a province to have someone like Mary Beth working for us in Japan. As it isn’t always easy to tell exactly what the payback is on these trips, I feel that the exposure is great for our product and the feedback was positive. Hopefully we can keep working through the challenges and keep Japan as our largest export market.

As we head into spring, I wish everyone all the best. Hopefully we find good healthy bees this spring and head into an exciting and prosperous year. If anyone has any concerns or suggestions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to any of us board members or staff.

Curtis Miedema

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Alberta Bee News

April 2023

It Takes Guts – The Honey Bee Microbiome

the crop, midgut, and hindgut. Each with specialized functions and different bacterial communities. Bacteria in the crop are solely derived from food sources, bacteria in the hindgut are solely derived from other bees (e.g., bee-bee interactions), and in the midgut, the bacteria are from both food and social transmission6.

By Emily Olson, Alberta Tech Transfer Program Technician

The journey of bee and bacteria begins in the first interactions a developing bee has with its nest mates. Young larvae ingest their first bacteria ‘cocktail’ via brood food, a mixture of special gland secretions and pollen, given to larvae by nurse bees 5. However, a study by Martinsen et al. (2012), found that larvae have few bacteria present in their gut. They found that larvae’s microbiota varies from season to season and year to year, suggesting that the diversity of this bacterial community is determined by the brood food7.

Do you ever wonder, what makes honey so good?

How do bees convert nectar from flowers into this liquid gold? The answer to these questions is simple – bacteria!

Prior to emerging, the developing bee sheds its gut lining, and the bee emerges with little to no gut bacteria.

The first part of a bees’ life is dedicated to in-hive activities such as cleaning, caring for brood, and tending to the queen. Through interactions with other bees, especially foragers, microbes are transmitted to the young bee. By day 9, the bee’s microbiota is fully developed, and this community of bacteria remains with them for life7. As the bee ages and transitions from in-hive activities to foraging, it collects bacteria, good and bad, and brings them back to the hive.

Bees fly, in general, within a 5 km radius of the colony, collecting pollen, nectar, and propolis from the surrounding environment. While foraging, the nectar collected is stored in the bee’s honey stomach (crop), where enzymes are

H

oney bees have bacteria in their guts, just like us!

However, the diversity of these bacteria is much lower in bees than in humans. Honey bees have 8 different species that make up the “core gut bacteria”, whereas humans have around 1,000 1. These core bacteria are present in all honey bees, regardless of where they are in the world 2. Bees and their bacteria have evolved together, and this specialized relationship is mutualistic; bacteria receive nutrients from the bee and the bee, in return, receives protection from harmful microorganisms 3,4 . Bacteria also aid in digestion, food preservation, pheromone production, caste and nest mate recognition, task cues, and much more5!

The honey bee digestive system is comprised of 3 main compartments: 4

Alberta Bee News

April 2023

added from the hypopharyngeal gland and the conversion of nectar into honey starts3. These enzymes inhibit the establishment and growth of bacteria, resulting in the few bacteria present in the crop7. Among this small community of bacteria are lactobacillus bacteria (LAB), which continues to convert nectar to honey. Although LAB are only found in fresh honey and do not survive in stored honey, they contribute to its lasting antimicrobial properties by producing lactic acid8. It is suggested that LAB may inhibit the production of yeast that causes alcoholic fermentation3, allowing honey to be stored indefinitely. The pollen bees collect, once back in the hive, is mixed with regurgitated nectar from the honey stomach. In this process, LAB are also added to the pollen, transforming it into bee bread.

These bacteria give the bee bread antimicrobial properties, allowing it to be stored for a long period of time, and helping defend bees and brood against pathogens4.

but the enzymes produced by bacteria in the midgut degrade the pectin found in pollen grains and allow the bee to access the nutrients within6.

The gut bacteria also play an important role in a bees’ immune response, by initiating the synthesis of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), a crucial component of bee’s immune system13. As bees consume resources from outside the hive, they are exposed to foreign materials and pathogens. During an infection, AMPs are produced and work to damage cells and inhibit protein formation in the foreign microbes14. This immune response also helps to prime the bee’s immune system against future infections by enabling the immune system to recognize pathogens more quickly and be ready to fight off a reinfection12. Additionally, several strains of bacteria in the hindgut form a biofilm layer on the ileum’s epithelium, providing a physical barrier, which further acts to protect the bee against parasites, pathogens, and other foreign material6.

The midgut is the main site of digestion and nutrient absorption in the honey bee digestive system9. It contains few bacteria, mostly concentrated in the posterior section, near the hindgut. The hindgut, composed of the ileum and rectum, is important for the absorption of water, salt, minerals, and other substances10. It contains the highest density of gut bacteria, which remains relatively stable throughout the bee’s life11. Bees rely on the bacterial communities within the midgut and hindgut to digest and metabolize food, as they are unable to breakdown the carbohydrates present in pollen and nectar on their own12. The polysaccharides in pollen and nectar are broken down by enzymes produced by the gut bacteria into short chain fatty acids, which are then available as energy to the bee12. Bees collect food resources from a variety of plants producing different types of sugars, proteins, and defensive compounds, some of which are toxic to bees6.

The gut bacteria detoxify and metabolize these substances by producing specific enzymes to break them down6. For example, pectin in plant cell walls is toxic to honey bees,

The impact of antibiotic use on the honey bee gut microbiota Antibiotics are commonly used in honey bee hives to treat bacterial diseases, such as American Foulbrood and European Foulbrood. These antibiotics are broad spectrum, meaning they are effective against a variety of bacteria, and can impact the beneficial bacterial community within honey bees15. Given the importance of the gut bacteria for bee health, it’s important to understand the implications of the use of antibiotics, tylosin and tetracycline for example, as a management tool to fight honey bee bacterial diseases.

The bacterial community within honey bees is highly specialized, each species filling a niche. Therefore, the alteration of this community can impact the necessary functions these bacteria carry out, which may result in the disruption of nutrient breakdown and uptake, detoxification, and the level of bee susceptibility to pathogens. Powell et al. (2021) assessed the effects of Tylosin on the diversity of the honey bee microbiome16. Their results demonstrate that exposure to antibiotics decreases the abundance and diversity of bacteria species and causes bees to become more susceptible to bacterial infection. Similarly, a study by Deng et al. (2022) found that long term use of the antibiotic Tetracycline reduced the abundance of certain bacteria, which increased bee’s susceptibility to Israeli acute paralysis virus, suggesting that the bees microbiome plays a crucial role in resisting viral infection17.

Prophylactic use of antibiotics has been a common practice in honey bee colonies here in Alberta. By limiting our use of antibiotics and incorporating alternative management practices, such as increased monitoring, isolating sick 5

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Alberta Bee News

April 2023

colonies, and implementing biosecurity protocols, we can avoid the negative effects the long-term use of antibiotics has on our colonies.

with bacterial pathogens. They also noted that glyphosate may have sublethal effects on bees, such as impacting their ability to return to the hive after foraging18.

The impact of pesticides on the honey bee gut microbiota

Pesticide residues have been found not only on bees, but also in wax, pollen, and honey, resulting in a constant exposure to these chemicals. Because wax often remains in a colony year after year, pesticide residues can build up within the comb over time and have negative effects on overwinter survival, queen quality, and the overall fitness of the colony19. Kakumanu et al. (2016) examined how in-hive pesticides (coumaphos, fluvalinate, and chlorothalonil) alters the microbiome of honey bees. Exposure to these pesticides, commonly used to treat colonies, resulted in a significant change in the bacterial communities within the studied bees20.

Decreased sugar and peptide metabolism was also observed, suggesting an altered bee microbiome impacts these important functions carried out by the bacteria.

Bees are often exposed to environment pesticides used on the landscape, as they are out foraging, and in-hive pesticides, placed on colonies by beekeepers.

Although some pesticides, such as glyphosate, are considered innocuous to honey bees, there is evidence they harm beneficial bacteria found within the bee gut and many studies have linked their use to the decline in honey bee health18. A study by Motta et al. (2018) analyzed the size and composition of gut bacteria of bees exposed to glyphosate18.

Researchers found a significant shifts in the size of the microbiome on day 3 of glyphosate exposure, and that bees exposed to the pesticide were more likely to become infected

Communication with farmers and pesticide applicators is essential to limiting exposure and preventing pesticide poisoning in our colonies. Ensure pesticides (in-hive and on the landscape) are applied properly by following the label, used only when thresholds are met, and Integrated Pest Management strategies have been considered.

For more information on how to prevent pollinator poisoning, check out “Protecting Pollinators – Best Management Practices for Foliar Application” on our website! https://www.

albertabeekeepers.ca/preventingpollinator-poisoning/ The honey bee microbiome plays an important role in individual bee and overall colony health. The beneficial bacteria within the bee gut are important for nutrition, immune response, communication with nest mates, and much more. Honey bees rely on their internal bacterial community for survival and any alteration can have lasting impacts on colony health. There is significant evidence that antibiotics, as well as pesticides used in-hive and on the landscape, alter these communities resulting in lethal and sublethal effects on honey bees. By reducing our dependence on antibiotics, reducing exposure to pesticides, and incorporating organic treatments and cultural management practices into our operations, we can ensure the health of these important bacteria and therefore the health of our bees!

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References 1. Engel, P., Martinson, V.G., & Moran, N. A. (2012). Functional diversity within the simple gut microbiota of the honey bee.

PNAS, 109(27), 11002-11007. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1202970109 2. Raymann K. & Moran N.A. (2018). The role of the gut microbiome in health and disease of adult honey bee workers.

Curr Opin Insect Sci. 26, 97-104. doi: 10.1016/j.cois.2018.02.012.

3. Olofsson, T. C., & Vásquez, A. (2008). Detection and identification of a novel lactic acid bacterial flora within the honey stomach of the honeybee Apis mellifera. Current microbiology, 57(4), 356-363. doi: 10.1007/s00284-008-9202-0 4. Vásquez, A., & Olofsson, T. C. (2009). The lactic acid bacteria involved in the production of bee pollen and bee bread.

Journal of apicultural research, 48(3), 189-195. doi: 10.3896/IBRA.1.48.3.07 5. Paris, L., Peghaire, E., Moné, A., Diogon, M., Debroas, D., Delbac, F., & El Alaoui, H. (2020). Honeybee gut microbiota dysbiosis in pesticide/parasite co-exposures is mainly induced by Nosema ceranae. Journal of invertebrate pathology, 172,107348. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jip.2020.107348 6. Moran, N. A. (2015). Genomics of the honey bee microbiome. Current opinion in insect science, 10, 22-28. doi: 10.1016/j.cois.2015.04.003 7. Martinson, V. G., Moy, J., & Moran, N. A. (2012). Establishment of characteristic gut bacteria during development of the honeybee worker. Applied and environmental microbiology, 78(8), 2830-2840. doi: 10.1128/AEM.07810-11 8. Bogdanov, S. (1997). Antibacterial substances in honey. Swiss Bee Res. Center, 17, 74-76.

9. Harwood, G., & Amdam, G. (2021). Vitellogenin in the honey bee midgut. Apidologie, 52(4), 837-847. doi: 10.1007/s13592-021-00869-3ff. ffhal-03688791f 10. Caron, D. M., & Connor, L. J. (2013). Honey bee biology and beekeeping (No. 638.1 C293h). Wicwas Press,.

11. Maes, P. W., Floyd, A. S., Mott, B. M., & Anderson, K. E. (2021). Overwintering honey bee colonies: Effect of worker age and climate on the hindgut microbiota. Insects, 12(3), 224. https://doi.org/10.3390/insects12030224 12. Zheng, H., Perreau, J., Powell, J. E., Han, B., Zhang, Z., Kwong, W. K., ... & Moran, N. A. (2019). Division of labor in honey bee gut microbiota for plant polysaccharide digestion. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 116(51), 25909-25916. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1916224116 13. Kwong, W. K., Mancenido, A. L., & Moran, N. A. (2017). Immune system stimulation by the native gut microbiota of honey bees. Royal Society open science, 4(2), 170003. doi: 10.1098/rsos.170003 14. Danihlík, J., Aronstein, K., & Petřivalský, M. (2015). Antimicrobial peptides: a key component of honey bee innate immunity: Physiology, biochemistry, and chemical ecology. Journal of Apicultural Research, 54(2), 123-136. https://doi. org/10.1080/0021 8839.2015.1109919 15. Aljedani, D. M. (2022). Antibiotic treatment (Tetracycline) effect on bio-efficiency of the larvae honey bee (Apis mellifera jemenatica). Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences, 29(3), 1477-1486. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sjbs.2021.11.024 16. Powell, J. E., Carver, Z., Leonard, S. P., & Moran, N. A. (2021). Field-realistic tylosin exposure impacts honey bee microbiota and pathogen susceptibility, which is ameliorated by native gut probiotics. Microbiology spectrum, 9(1), e00103-21. https://doi.org/10.1128/Spectrum.00103-21 17. Deng, Y., Yang, S., Zhao, H., Luo, J., Yang, W., & Hou, C. (2022). Antibiotics-induced changes in intestinal bacteria result in the sensitivity of honey bee to virus. Environmental Pollution, 314, 120278. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120278 18. Motta, E. V., Raymann, K., & Moran, N. A. (2018). Glyphosate perturbs the gut microbiota of honey bees. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 115(41), 10305-10310. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1803880115 19. Mullin, C. A., Frazier, M., Frazier, J. L., Ashcraft, S., Simonds, R., VanEngelsdorp, D., & Pettis, J. S. (2010). High levels of miticides and agrochemicals in North American apiaries: implications for honey bee health. PloS one, 5(3), e9754. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0009754 20. Kakumanu, M. L., Reeves, A. M., Anderson, T. D., Rodrigues, R. R., & Williams, M. A. (2016). Honey bee gut microbiome is altered by in-hive pesticide exposures. Frontiers in microbiology, 7, 1255. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2016.01255

The Tech Transfer Program is funded by the Government of Canada and the Government of Alberta through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership.

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Alberta Bee News

April 2023

Apivar® Efficacy Testing in Alberta using the Apiarium Method

By Alberta’s Bee Health Assurance Team

Alberta’s Tech Transfer Program (TTP) along with the Government of Alberta’s Bee Health Assurance Team (BHAT) have been collaborating since 2021, with help from Dr. Rassol Bahreini from the University of Alberta, with a goal to screen varroa mite populations across the province to determine their susceptibility to Apivar®.

Apiarium Test Results 2021 and 2022 The following results do not necessarily represent all varroa mite populations in the province. The majority of beekeepers tested in 2021 and 2022 contacted us with concerns Figure 1. regarding the efficacy of Apivar® at controlling mites in their colonies.

Meaning, the colonies were not randomly sampled but chosen by the beekeeper(s) for testing because of high varroa counts.

The Apiarium was designed by Dr. Rassol Bahreini as a fast approach for screening miticides for use against varroa mites (Figure 1.). With guidance form Dr. Bahreini, the BHAT and TTP used this method to determine the efficacy of Apivar® on varroa mite populations across Alberta. This is done by placing bees into an Apiarium and exposing them to a strip of Apivar® for 4 hours. Ideally, each colony has bees place into 3 Apiariums with a treatment, and 3 Apiariums without a treatment (control). After 4 hours the number of mites dropped on a sticky board are counted and the number of mites left on the bees as well as the number of bees in the Apiarium are counted. Based on the numbers collected from both the treated and non treated Apiariums, the efficacy of Apivar® is calculated. If you would like more details on the method, please email the BHAT at: bee@gov.ab.ca.

In 2021, the BHAT and TTP relied on beekeepers to mail in samples for testing. We received samples from five beekeepers, for a total of 19 colonies. Any samples with less than a 2% mite infestation were removed from the results. The average efficacy ranged from 23 - 84% with an average of 66% (Graph 1.). Issues were noted with samples collected due to the high infestation level of some samples (>40%) and the lack of bees mailed in to from the colonies to have 3 treatment Apiariums and 3 control Apiariums.

In 2022, to ensure enough bees were collected from each colony and varroa infestation levels were not too high or too low, samples were collected by TTP/BHAT staff. Varroa mite

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levels remained low until the fall, so our sample size again remained small. Overall, a total of 26 colonies from seven beekeepers were tested. The average efficacy ranged from 29 - 92%, with an average efficacy of 44% (Graph 2.). For both 2021 and 2022 samples were to be taken from colonies that had not yet received a treatment in the fall to avoid skewing the results. However, in 2022 beekeepers 5 and 6 were sampled when Apivar® strips were present in the colony (Graph 2.).

between applications, to determine if multiple applications are required. This information will also allow you time to switch to a different control strategy if the current method is not effective in decreasing your varroa levels.

It can be difficult to avoid getting into a treatment routine, particularly when it has worked in the past, but remember what worked last year may not be as effective this year due to a number of factors. This includes the varroa infestation level, temperature and humidity (for duration of treatment), number of brood chambers, if brood is present in the colony and strength of the colony. In order to choose the best treatment option, all these factors must be taken into consideration.

Molecular Testing As a follow up to the Apiarium tests, a group of varroa mite samples were randomly collected across the province and in collaboration with the University of Valencia in Spain, selected mite samples will be molecularly analyzed. This data will be used to confirm the validity of the Apiarium test, and to determine the presence/absence of Amitraz (active ingredient in Apivar®) resistant mutations in Alberta.

In 2023, the TTP and BHAT will be sending all registered beekeepers in Alberta a mite shaker (Figure 2.), a sample monitoring plan for varroa mites, and a varroa mite treatment decision tree. These tools will help make an informed decision when it comes to managing varroa populations. This may seem daunting, but many large and small beekeepers throughout Alberta are able to balance seasonal management with pest management. It may require the appointment of an employee/individual as the monitoring and treatment specialist to monitor and track pests and diseases, as well as coordinate treatments. This could reduce unnecessary costs (treatment, labour, transportation), feeding colonies that are too sick to survive the winter (syrup, labour, transportation), and cleaning dead-outs in the spring (labour, transportation).

How to determine if your miticide treatment is working and what to do if it isn’t?

Monitor, monitor, monitor and know what options work best for your operation. In order to properly assess if a treatment is effective at reducing your varroa population, monitoring should take place at a minimum before and after each treatment(s). Never assume the mite issue is solved simply because you have added a varroa treatment.

Periodically monitor while the treatment is in the colony or

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Alberta Bee News

April 2023

Building Back Beekeeping ALBERTA BEEKEEPEERS COMMISSION

2023 AGM, CONFERENCE & TRADE SHOW

November 29 - December 1, 2023 | Edmonton, Alberta Beekeepers Save the date for Alberta’s largest commercial beekeeping event of the year – the annual ABC AGM, Conference & Trade Show. Join over 190 beekeepers and industry guests for two and a half days of presentations, AGM, activities, trade show and more!

Speakers With a focus on applied science and practical application, this year’s ABC AGM, Conference & Trade Show event will feature a stellar line-up of local, national, and international speakers. In line with this year's conference theme ‘Building Back Beekeeping,’ presentations will aim to enhance your knowledge and skills to support the heath and sustainability of your beekeeping operation.

Trade Show Vendors With a sold-out trade show in 2022, the trade show provides guests a great a way to learn about the latest in beekeeping equipment and services and make connections with industry suppliers. For vendors, it's a great way to engage directly with commercial beekeepers and learn more about the Alberta beekeeping industry.

Sponsors With a number of unique sponsorship opportunities, we offer sponsors a great way to highlight their brand and promote their products and services directly to our industry of commercial beekeepers.

MORE INFO: www.albertabeekeepers.ca

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The Alberta Beekeepers Education and Enhancement Program We are pleased to share the details of the recently completed Alberta Beekeepers Education and Enhancement Program, a practical beekeeper toolkit that provides training and tutorials to empower beekeepers with husbandry and biosecurity best practices to protect individual beekeepers, regional biosecurity, and the Alberta beekeeping industry as a whole.

The project was led by Alberta Farm Animal Care (AFAC) with contributions from a range of expert panel members, including the ABC and the Tech Transfer Program.

The BEE Keeper Handbook has been designed for both apiary owners and their staff, and is available in both English and Spanish, making it a great education tool for all beekeepers and apiary workers.

In addition to the handbook, task lists have been developed detailing the different responsibilities that beekeepers must complete, such as winterizing hives. Each task list summarizes the equipment needed, appropriate steps, and refers the reader to additional information.

The program includes a series of 27 detailed videos that complement the handbook information.

Video series: • Video 1 – Bee Anatomy

• Video 15 – Winter Management – Wrapping Hives

• Video 2 – Bee Physiology

• Video 16 – Winter Management – Winter Buildings

• Video 3 – What do Honey Bees Collect?

• Video 17 – Overview of Brood Diseases

• Video 4 – Is Beekeeping for You?

• Video 18 – Varroa Mites

• Video 5 – Beekeeping Equipment and PPE

• Video 19 – Biosecurity

• Video 6 – Buying Bees

• Video 20 – Handling Queens

• Video 7 – Spring Management and Feed Assessment

• Video 21 – Handling the Colony

• Video 8 – Spring Management – Queen Quality

• Video 22 – Handling Frames

• Video 9 – Handling Dead Outs

• Video 23 – Smoker Safety

• Video 10 – Dividing Colonies

• Video 24 – Moving Colonies

• Video 11 – Swarming

• Video 25 – Small Scale Extraction

• Video 12 – Summer Management – Inspecting Your Hives

• Video 26 – Processing Honey

• Video 13 – Fall Management – Combining Colonies

• Video 27 – Beeswax

• Video 14 – Fall Management – Feeding Bees

For all the information and to download the Alberta BEE Keeper Handbook in both English and/or Spanish, please visit: www.afac.ab.ca/programs-and-events /bee-project/

The Beekeeper’s Role: Caring for and Protecting Alberta’s Honey Bees The Alberta Beekeepers Education and Enhancement Program

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April 2023

B

ecome an Annual Sponsor of the Alberta Beekeeping Industry

New 2023 Annual Sponsorship Opportunities!

Are you looking for an effective way to demonstrate your commitment to supporting the health and sustainability of the beekeeping industry in Alberta?

We’re pleased to announce a NEW range of annual sponsorship opportunities that will help support ABC’s mission to ‘develop initiatives and tools that support Alberta beekeepers, improve the heath of their honey bees and the quality of their products, and create opportunities to expand markets and partnerships', while also providing you with a valuable range of benefits designed to bring awareness to your brand and highlight your commitment to supporting the Alberta beekeeping industry.

By partnering with the Alberta Beekeepers Commission on an annual sponsorship, your organization can not only take advantage of a costeffective way to gain valuable brand exposure, but you will be also contributing to the health and sustainability of the Alberta beekeeping industry.

Check out our new Annual Sponsorship Package here:

www.albertabeekeepers.ca/sponsors/

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April 2023

SURVEY: Lowbush Blueberry Pollination By the Canadian Honey Council

This survey was created by the Canadian Honey Council's Pollination Task Force.

Its purpose is to assess the needs of beekeepers in light of their participation in lowbush blueberry pollination. The responses to this survey are completely anonymous and will allow us to take the necessary steps to optimize and facilitate the pollination of blueberries by honeybees. You have until June 15, 2023 to complete this survey. It will then be compiled and we will be able to undertake the necessary steps in view of your specific needs identified through your answers.

The Canadian Honey Council's Pollination Task Force has created a survey (see link below) to assess the needs of beekeepers in light of their participation in lowbush blueberry pollination.

The responses to this survey are completely anonymous and will allow us to take the necessary steps to optimize and facilitate the pollination of blueberries by honeybees.

You have until June 15, 2023 to complete this survey. It will then be compiled and we will be able to undertake the necessary steps in view of your specific needs identified through your answers.

Pleas click the link below to complete the survey or scan the QR code for access. https://forms.office.com/r/wGFUDj3jQr

The Alberta Beekeepers Commission is pleased to announce the launch of the 2023 ABC Bursary.

THE ALBERTA BEEKEEPERS COMMISSION IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THE LAUNCH OF THE 2023 ABC BURSARY

$1000 BEEKEEPING BURSARY AVAILABLE! FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO APPLY PLEASE VISIT: WWW.ALBERTABEEKEEPERS.CA/COMMUNITYRESOURCES/2023-ABC-BURSARY/

Over the past five year’s, the ABC has contributed over $13,000 towards supporting the education and skills development of 14 Alberta individuals who are actively involved in beekeeping or pursuing a career in an area that impacts beekeeping.

Building on Commission's commitment to supporting the advancement of the Alberta beekeeping industry, we’re pleased to announce the launch of the 2023 bursary fund, offering individuals in the beekeeping industry to opportunity to secure one of THREE $1000 bursaries.

The ABC Bursary is open to Alberta residents who are actively involved in beekeeping, intend to pursue a future in beekeeping or intend to pursue a career in an area that may impact beekeeping (e.g. pathology, research or agronomy).

Preference will be given to family members of ABC Eligible Producers and to those intending to pursue a career in commercial beekeeping or beekeeping research.

APPLY NOW! For more information and to apply, please visit: www.albertabeekeepers.ca/community-resources/2023-abc-bursary/

Application deadline JUNE 30, 2023.

13

www.albertabeekeepers.ca

Alberta Bee News

April 2023

ABF

EST.

1943

AMERICAN BEEKEEPING FEDERATION

­

China India

Philippines

Japan

Papua New Guinea Indonesia

­

Canada bound

Australia

American Beekeeping Federation | www.ABFNet.org 14

Alberta Bee News

April 2023

Recipe of the Month

Hot Cross French Toast with Roasted Oranges & Vanilla Mascarpone

Recipe from In Rhi’s Pantry https://www.inrhispantry.com/hotxfrenchtoast.html

First, we have slices of hot cross bun which are soaked in a custard-like mix, pan fried in butter then tossed in sparkling flecks of spiced sugar. Nestled amongst the toast are pieces of roasted orange that are lightly glazed with vanilla and honey, all to be eaten with a healthy dollop of vanilla marscapone cream.

If you’re like me and love a little bit of chocolate, this is all finished off with some crushed speckled chocolate eggs.

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 220 degrees celsius fan bake. Slice each orange into 4 rounds, then spread the honey and vanilla over the top. Lay onto a lined tray and bake for 10-15 minutes, then set aside.

Easter brunch, here we comeeeeeeeeeee ;)

2. Vertically slice each hot cross bun into 4 pieces, then combine eggs, cream, milk, sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Whisk to combine.

3. To make the spiced sugar, combine all ingredients in wide bowl.

Ingredients (serves 4)

4. Bring a pan to a med-high heat, then melt butter in the pan.

Roasted Oranges • 2 oranges, peeled • 2tsp runny honey • 1tsp vanilla extract or paste Hot Cross French Toast • 3-4 hot cross buns • 2 eggs • 1/3 cup cream • 1/4 cup milk • 1tbsp sugar • 1tsp ground cinnamon • Butter, for cooking ​

Spiced Sugar • 1/4 cup caster sugar • 1tsp ground cinnamon • 1/2tsp mixed spice • Zest of half an orange ​

5. Dip the bun slices in the egg mixture, leaving to soak on each side for 10-15 seconds. Drip off the excess mixture, then place into the hot pan.

6. Cook on each side for 2-4 minutes, or until each side is golden.

Remove from the pan, toss in the spiced sugar, then set aside and repeat until all slices are cooked.

Vanilla Mascarpone • 100gm mascarpone cream • 1/4 cup cream • 1tsp vanilla extract or paste

7. To make the vanilla mascarpone, whisk all ingredients in a bowl until thickened and smooth.

8. To serve, place the French toast on a plate. Lay down orange slices, sprinkle over speckled eggs and spoon over a dollop of mascarpone.

Crushed speckled eggs, for garnish 15

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Alberta Bee News

April 2023

APIARIST DOWNSIZING TIMED ONLINE BEE AUCTION

SWEETHEART POLLINATORS/JANEIL ENTERPRISES NEIL & JANINE SPECHT

EATONIA, SK LOTS START TO CLOSE ❘ WEDNESDAY, MAY 8TH ❘ 12:00 NOON SK TIME Bidding will open May 1st and all lots will close May 8th starting at 12:00 Noon SK time.

TIMED ONLINE ONLY BIDDING www.fraserauction.com

NLINE BIDDIN G

OPEN HOUSE

MAY 5-6

AT SALE LOCATION Come and inspect all the bees and items in the auction.

• APPROX 2000 DBL BROOD COLONIES • APPROX 6000 9-FRAME HONEY SUPERS • 2007 Freightliner t/a truck w/22ft flat deck, SK-SAFETIED, VIN# 1FVHCYDJ37HX51413

• 2010 Chevrolet 3500HD s/a dually truck w/11.5ft flat deck, SK-SAFETIED, VIN# 1GB6K0B61AF110788 • 2008 Freightliner t/a truck w/24ft flat deck, SK-SAFETIED, VIN# 1FVHCYBS58HA86900

• 2007 IH t/a truck w/bunk, 24ft 22ft flat deck, SK-SAFETIED, VIN#1HTWNAZR77J470858 • (2) HUMMERBEE articulating Rough

Terrain forklifts • 2008 Dodge 5500HD s/a dually truck w/15ft flat deck, SK-SAFETIED, VIN# 3D6WD76A08G118624 • Hive clamp that mounts to Hummerbee forklift

More to be added. Updated list will be available at www.fraserauction.com

BID AT www.fraserauction.com FRASER AUCTION SERVICE LTD.

Brandon, MB Auctioneer: Scott Campbell / Jesse Campbell P: 204-727-2001 F: 204-729-9912 TF: 1-800-483-5856 www.fraserauction.com E: office@fraserauction.com Licensed and bonded. P.L. License #918093. Member of M.A.A., S.A.A., A.A.A., A.A.C.

NOTE: Cheques of $50,000 or more must be accompanied by bank letter of good standing. For more information on this please call Fraser Auction 204-727-2001. Not responsible for errors in description. Subject to additions and or deletions. Property owners and Fraser Auction Service not responsible for any accidents. GST & PST where applicable. TERMS: Visa, MasterCard, Debit, Cash, E-Transfer, Bank Wire Transfer, or cheque. Sale conducted by FRASER AUCTION SERVICE 1-800-483-5856 www.fraserauction.com

16

April 2023

Classifieds

Alberta Bee News

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

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 2023.

Must have a minimum of 5 seasons working fulltime on a Canadian style commercial operation.

Duties include caring for honeybee colonies in the appropriate manner, coordinating the production of replacement bees & equipment; recognizing, reporting, monitoring hive health issues and applying appropriate treatment/ controls; supervise extracting lines; supervise small to medium teams of workers; drive (including std transmission & medium duty trucks) & daily maintain vehicles; operate & maintain other apiary equipment (including forklifts & pumps and extracting equipment); conduct bee yard maintenance; keep field and/or production records; Accommodation available. We are located at 833071 RR231 Grimshaw, AB Canada.

Please contact Mighty Peace Honey PO Box 1759 Grimshaw, AB Canada T0H 1W0. Rob 780 332 4862 or Fax 780 332 4822 or email mightypeacehoney@gmail.com

of pollination fiel_ds, monitoring and controlling bee health, keeping all required records, honey harvesting and extraction, construction of new bee equipment and maintain and repair 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 up to 70 lbs). A valid drivers license is required. Staff accommodations may be available.

7 apiary workers. Experience an asset but will be trained. Wage starting at 15.65- 17.00 per hour with a possible bonus (40 plus hrs/wk). Full time seasonal employment from April 2023 to sept 2023. Duties: caring for honeybee colonies in the appropriate manner, assisting Technicians with bees and equipment, harvesting and extracting honey, repairing and building new bee equipment. Must be able to work in a team environment. Ability to speak English an asset. Physical fit and able to lift up to 70 lbs.

Staff accommodations may be available. Please contact Sweetheart Pollinators/Janeil Ent Inc PO Box 155, Eatonia, Sask. SOL 0Y0 (306)463-8864 or Email to: sweetheart.pollinators@sasktel.net

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 2023; 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 2023; 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.

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 2023.

Must have a minimum of 2 seasons working fulltime on a Canadian style commercial operation.

Duties include caring for honeybee colonies in the appropriate manner, coordinating the production of replacement bees & equipment; recognizing, reporting, monitoring hive health issues and applying appropriate treatment/ controls; harvest & package honey & beeswax; supervise small teams of workers; drive (including std transmission & medium duty trucks) & daily maintain vehicles; operate & maintain other apiary equipment (including forklifts & pumps); conduct bee yard maintenance; keep some field and/or production records; Accommodation available.

We are located at 833071 RR231 Grimshaw, AB Canada. Please contact Mighty Peace Honey PO Box 1759 Grimshaw, AB Canada T0H 1W0. Rob 780 332 4862 or Fax 780 332 4822 or email andrewdicksonbeekeeper@gmail.com SWEETHEART POLLINATORS/JANEIL ENT INC 7km SW of Eatonia. Sask has the following positions available for the 2023 season: 7 Technician/Workers, Noc 8431 with a minimum of 2 years work in a Canadian Apiary. Full time seasonal employment from March, 2023 to October 2023. Wage starting from 17.00 to 20.00 (depending on experience with a possible bonus) 40 plus hrs/wk . Duties will include: caring for honeybee colonies, moving bees into and out

GOLDEN EARS APIARIES INC in Mission, BC, is seeking 11 Apiary Supervisors at $15.21/hr, starting Feb 1,2023 until Oct. 31/2023, 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 2023 season: 7 FARM SUPERVISORS (SKILLED WORKER, NOC 8252) with a minimum of 5 years(seasons) experience working at a Canadian apiary. Employment needed from March through October 2023; 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; 17

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, 2023 to November 15, 2023. 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

www.albertabeekeepers.ca

Alberta Bee News

April 2023

For Sale, Wolfe Honey Company: 5500 gallon honey bin w/heating coil. $14,500.00 Used Honey drums- $20.00 each Located in Guy, AB For more information please call Gilbert (780) 925-2282.

HEALTHY HIVE ESSENTIALS

18% CRUDE PROTEIN WITH PROBIOTICS

MANNLAKELTD.COM 866-773-3025

18

Alberta Bee News

April 2023

O D E M I N T E R N AT I O N A L

Y O U R PA R T N E R IN SALES WE BUY HONEY & WAX ASK FOR SÉBASTIEN OR PHILLIPE 1 800 567-3789 | info@honey.ca | odem.ca

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

MCW APIARIES has two positions available for Apiary Technician (NOC8431) starting February 1st to October 31st 2023. Must have at least three years of commercial beekeeping experience with wage staring at $18/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.

TEES BEES INC. requires: 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 2023 ($15.65$19/ 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 2023 ($15.65 - $17/ 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

MCW APIARIES has two positions available for Apiary Workers (NOC 8431), starting February 1st to October 31st, 2023. Must have at least one year of experience and a valid driver's license.

Accommodation available if required. Wages starting at $15.65/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.

19

SWAN APIARIES are seeking workers for the 2023 season, February 20- October 31 2023, 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

www.albertabeekeepers.ca

April 2023

Alberta Bee News

Classifieds

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

PLEASANT VALLEY HONEY LTD.(SW 15-46-27-W4 near Falun, AB) requires: Ten APIARY TECHNICIANS (NOC 8431) with a minimum of 2 years (seasons) experience working on a Canadian style commercial apiary with employment March thru December 2023 $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.

experience. On-Farm 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

BUSY BEE FARM LTD. near Hay Lakes, Alberta, requires Four Apiary Labourers (NOC 8431) with a minimum of 1 year experience in commercial beekeeping, wages ranging from $15.65 - $17.50/hour; Also required is Fifteen Apiary Technicians (NOC 8431) with a minimum of three years of experience in Canadian commercial beekeeping, wages ranging from $17.50 - $23.50/hour. All positions are fulltime (45+ hours/week) for the February 1st – October 31st, 2023 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

PALA’S VITAMIN HONEY FARM in Wembley, AB for the 2023 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, 2023. Staff accomm available. Contact Dan Pala, 721042 Hwy 724. Wembley, AB d.pala@telus. net, phone 780-832-5809, fax 780-766-3009

KONA QUEEN HAWAII Proud to be your first choice for Kona Italian and Carniolan Queens

Due to high demand, the majority of our spring production is booked.

Limited quantities may become available call to inquire.

Thank you for your understanding.

80 8-328 -90 16 | INFO@ KON AQ UEEN .COM WW W.KONAQUEE N. COM | @ K ONAQUE EN HA WA I I

20

April 2023

Classifieds

Alberta Bee News

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

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 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

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 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

productivity. All positions may require some night and weekend work. All applicants must be able to work in the presence of bees, be in good physical condition and able to work in a team environment. On farm housing is available.

Resumes: rongreidanus@gmail.com or via mail to: Greidanus Honey Bee Farm c/o 1005271 Alberta LTD, Box 1581, Stettler, Alberta, T0C 2L0

GREIDANUS HONEY MILL We require 5 Apiary Workers (NOC 8431) with a minimum of 1 year experience on a Canadian style commercial apiary to work in Northern Saskatchewan ($15.65/hr) in 2023. 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 2023 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

GREIDANUS HONEY-BEE FARM in Stettler, Alberta is accepting applications for the 2023 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, 2023 thru October 31, 2023.2 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, 2023 thru October 31,2023.

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 1,2023 thru October 31, 2023. All wages are negotiable based on experience and 21

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 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 2023.

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 2023. 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

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Alberta Bee News

April 2023

Top Quality Products for Beekeepers • Foundation

• Honey Containers

• Queen Rearing Supplies

• Mite Controls

• Beekeepers Apparel & Tools

• Extracting Equipment

• Hive Equipment

• Packaged Bees & Queens

• Novelties

We can handle your sugar requirements. Dry or liquid – small lots or trailer loads.

• Medications

Bee Maid buys light and dark beeswax at competitive prices.

THREE LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU: 70 Alberta Ave, Spruce Grove, AB 1-800-213-6131 625 Roseberry St, Winnipeg, MB 1-866-783-2240 Highway #3 West, Tisdale, SK 1-306-873-2521

Shop online

Beemaid.com Proudly Owned by Canadian Beekeepers

22

beemaidbeesupplies.com

April 2023

Classifieds

Alberta Bee News

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

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 2023.

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.

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 2023 (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

Location is #9 Hajash 190012 RR 142. Fax resume to 1-403-362-6506, call 1-403-501-4226 or email dejongshoney@gmail.com

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 2023 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, 2023 to Nov 1, 2023 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 7 positions available for Apiary Technicians (NOC 8431). Applicants must have two years of Apiary technician experience. The rate of pay is $15.65-$18.00/hr., depending on experience.

Applicants must be able to work in the presence

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 $15.65 - $ 16.00/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 2023 (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, 2023) and one Apiary worker (from June 15 to September 15, 2023) 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, 2023 to November 1, 2023. $16/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.

23

MOUNTAINVIEW HONEY near Cayley, Alberta is seeking interested applicants for 3 positions as Apiary Supervisor NOC 8252 (40+ hrs/ wk) seasonal employment. The applicant must have a minimum of 5 years (seasons) experience working in a Canadian style commercial apiary environment with a minimum of 3 years as an Apiary Technician. Wages will be set by the NOC guidelines approx. $15.65 - $19.00 per hour, depending on experience. Possible bonus may also apply. Duties will include Supervising and working with Apiary technicians, caring for honeybee colonies, moving beehives into an out of canola pollination fields, monitoring and controlling bee health issues, honey harvesting and extraction, construction of new beehive equipment, all duties associated with a Canadian style commercial Apiary. Must be able to drive a lift truck. The applicant must have a valid drivers licence recognised by the province of Alberta.

Ability to speak English is an asset, must be physically fit, & be prepared to work in a fastpaced team environment. Staff accommodations available. Please fax, mail, or email you resume to Mountainview Honey, Attn: Terry Greidanus, at Box 126 Cayley, AB, T0L 0P0. or jobs@ mountainviewhoney.com GREIDANUS FARMS INC.at Granum, AB requires 17 general farm workers (NOC 8431) from March 9, 2023 to November 9, 2023. $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 2023 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.

www.albertabeekeepers.ca

Alberta Bee News

April 2023

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April 2023

Classifieds

Alberta Bee News

EMPLOYMENT

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EMPLOYMENT

Seeking six (6) Apiary Workers at $17.00/hr for seasonal/full time position. (54.00 hrs/ wk) As Apiary Worker you are required to assist management and apiary technician with beehive maintenance, this involves cleaning, checking, treating and feeding colonies, honey harvesting and extracting. Apiary Worker must have a minimum of one year of experience.

Seeking six (6) Apiary Technicians at $18.00/hr for seasonal/full time position. (54.00 hrs/wk) As Apiary Technician you are required to work with, supervise and instruct other employees.

Other requirements include maintaining field records, monitoring and reporting to management. Apiary Technicians must have a minimum of two years of experience. Accomm for all positions are provided. Bonuses apply.

Email grapiaries@gmail.com.

Greidanus Apiaries Ltd. 56107 Range Road 245, Sturgeon County, AB, T8R 0M1.

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/pickup 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

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.

WESTLOCK HONEY PRODUCERS INC. Located at 59332 RR15 Westlock County is seeking applicants for the following positions available in the 2023 season: 4 Apiary Technicians (NOC 8431). $15.65 - $21/hr depending on experience. Full time 45+ hrs per week Feb thru Oct 2023. 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 2023. ($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 2023 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, 2023, up until November 16, 2023, weather depending. Some evening, night and weekend work will be required. Accommodations are available if required. All applicants must

HICKS HONEY FARMS LTD. Near McLennan, AB 77405 RR 193A is seeking for the 2023 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, 2023 and goes until November 5, 2023. 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 25

LALLIER APIARIES Located at 56226 Range road 64 Sangudo, AB is in need of one (1) apiary worker (low skill worker) for the 2023 season; wage $16/hr. The position is full time (40+ hrs/ wk depends on the weather). The season willstart on March 2023 until October 2023. 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. PARADIS HONEY LTD. 5023-50 St & SW4-78-23-W5 Girouxville, AB Requires 1 FARM SUPERVISOR NOC 8252 for fulltime (40+ hrs/wk) year round employment ($16.00 - $20.00/hr - bonuses possible) depending on experience. Applicant must have a minimum of 5 yrs (seasons) in a Canadian commercial apiary. Duties include assist management in bee colony management & harvest crop. Recognize, report, monitor hive health issues. Operate and maintain farm machinery and equipment. English an asset.Valid driver’s license an asset. 4 APIARY TECHNICIANS NOC 8431 $16.25 - $19/hr (bonuses possible) depending on experience for full time (40+ hrs/wk) from Feb to Nov, 2023. Must have a minimum of 4+ yrs experience working with bees in a Canadian style commercial apiary. Some 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. Duties include assist management in bee colony management & harvest crop. Operate and maintain farm machinery and equipment. English an asset. Valid driver’s license an asset. APIARY TECHNICIANS – NOC 8431 (8 positions) ($15.65 - $17.00/hr with possible bonus) for full time (40+ hrs/wk) from Feb to Nov, 2023. Must have a minimum of 1+ yrs experience working with bees in a Canadian style commercial apiary. Applicants must be able to work in presence of honeybees (Apiary work) & will assist with colony management & harvest crop. Some 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, experience or education required. All positions

www.albertabeekeepers.ca

April 2023

Classifieds

Alberta Bee News

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

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 available. Rural area. Apply: info@paradishoney. com or mail to Paradis Honey Ltd, c/o Lise Paradis Box 99, Girouxville, AB T0H 1S0.

Company Ltd. 10609 McGrath Road, Rosedale, BC V0X 1X2 tel: 604-794-3315; fax: 604-794-3085; jobs @workerbeehoney.ca

is considered an asset, along with, a valid driver's license. Duties of an Apiary Technician include but are not limited to site preparation, site maintenance, colony management, honey extraction, and preparing hives for winter. Hours of work are minimum 40 hours per week or more. The salary for Apiary Technicians is $15.65 - $25.00 per hour.

SEVERSON HONEY FARM at 48143 Range Rd 204 Camrose, AB is seeking for the 2023 season from Feb – Nov 1: 8 apiary workers (NOC8431) with a min of 1-year experience, wages starting at $16.52/hr & 7 Apiary Technicians (NOC8431) with a min of 2-3 years experience, wage starting at $16.50/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 8431 (6 seasonal positions available, January to November 2023) - $17.75/ 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. Apiary Worker NOC 8431 (8 seasonal positions available, February to October 2023) - $16.15/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 8431 (8 seasonal positions available, February to October 2023) - $15.65/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.

All positions are physically demanding and 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

GOOD MORNING HONEY LTD.in Parkland County, AB (51516-RR15) is looking for: (2) APIARY TECHNICIANS ($17-$20/hr depending on experience) NOC8431 for employment during March thru October 2023 season. The positions are seasonal full time (44+ hrs/wk). Some weekend, evening and night work required. Onfarm 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 experience) NOC8431 with employment during March thru October 2023 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 2023 season. This position is seasonal full time (44+ hrs/wk.)

Some weekend, evening and night work required. On-farm accommodations available.

Located 10 min SW of Stony Plain, Alberta. The Apiary Labourer MUST be able to work in the presence of honey bees. Applicants must be in good physical condition. Experience is an asset.

Production bonus payments may be included for all positions. Email resumes to Richard at albertahoney@gmail.com or send mail to 2-51516 RR15 Parkland County, AB T7Y 2E8.

Clearly indicate which position you are applying for. These are seasonal jobs that do not start until March of 2023.

YAREMCIO HONEY is seeking 8 full time seasonal Apiary Technicians (NOC 8431) for the 2023 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 26

NIXON HONEY FARM in Red Deer County, Alberta is accepting applications for the 2023 season on a seasonal full time basis. The following positions need to be filled: 5 APIARY TECHNICIANS (NOC 8431) Full time employment (40+ hrs/week) $1721/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. One of these positions is from February 2023 thru June 2023 The other four positions are from February 2023 thru October 2023.

13 APIARY WORKERS (NOC 8431) Full time (40+ hrs/week) $16.52 -19.50/hr depending on experience, possible bonuses. Minimum 1 year experience. Duties include: woodwork (building bee related equipment), caring for bees in an appropriate manner, assisting technicians with bees and equipment, assisting with moving bees, assisting with honey harvest, extraction and packaging, assisting with bee yard and equipment maintenance, cleaning of working/production areas. One of these positions is from July 2023 thru October 2023. The other twelve positions are from February 2023 thru October 2023. 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 S.S. HONEY INC. S.S. Honey Inc. is looking for 4 positions to be filled for the upcoming 2023 bee season. 2 Apiary technicians (NOC 8431) from April 1 2023 to October 31 2023.

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

Alberta Bee News

April 2023

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EMPLOYMENT

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EMPLOYMENT

and are not limited to: Hive Management, Detecting Hive Diseases, Treating Hive Diseases, Extraction of Honey, Operating Farm equipment. Apiary Techs are required to be team leaders and must be able to manage a team.

2 Apiary workers (NOC 8431) from April 1, 2023 to October 31, 2023. 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

vesting, extraction, equipment maintenance and associated duties. Jun-Oct Apiary Harvest Worker will also assist with winter hive preparation. Contact Butz Apiaries, butzbuzz@ gmail.com. PO Box 36 Carnwood AB T0C 0W0

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, operating and maintaining apiary equipment including trucks and forklifts, and coordination of some workers.

BUTZ APIARIES 1 Apiary Harvest Worker for Jun-Oct, 2023 and 1 Apiary Harvest Worker Jul-Sep, 2023. Starting $16.52/hour according to NOC 8431 guidelines. 45 plus hrs/wk. 1+ year Canadian commercial beekeeping experience required and must be physically fit and able to work with bees. Duties include honey har-

WILDROSE COUNTRY APIARY LTD. n Smoky Lake AB, is seeking to hire 4 seasonal apiary Technicians (NOC 85100) from March thru October 2023. $16.52-20hr 30-60 hours a week. 1 year experience is required. Specific skills include colony management, honey production, spring & winter preparation, and general maintenance on the farm. Must be physically fit and prepared to work in an efficient team environment. Expect some weekend and evening work. Located in a rural setting. Worker accommodation is provided.

Email: wildrosecountryapiary@gmail.com 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) $16.52-$22.00/hr. depending on experience for full time (45+ hrs/wk) employment February thru October 2024. No educational requirement. Must have a minimum of 2-3 27

- (10) APIARY WORKER(s) (NOC 85100) $16.52$19.00/hr. depending on experience for full time (45+ hrs/wk) employment March thru October 2024. No educational requirement. Must have a minimum of 1 year (season) working fulltime on a Canadian style commercial apiary operation as an Apiary Worker or in the min. capacity of an Apiary Harvester/Labourer. All duties related to Canadian style commercial apiary associated with assisting Beekeepers/Apiary Technicians with Spring, Summer, Fall colony management, moving colonies, maintaining of apiary equipment, and all aspects in the collection extraction/processing of honey.

All positions may require some evening &

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April 2023

Classifieds

Alberta Bee News

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weekend work. All applicants must be in good physical conditions and able to work in a fastpace 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 Todd Eastman at P & J Apiaries Inc., p.j.apiaries.applicants@shaw.ca (Location 61232 – RR240 Westlock Co. AB.)

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.

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 2023) in Guy, AB. Wages will be set by the NOC guidelines and is currently $15.65 per hour. 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 accounting@ honeybunny.ca; or by fax: 780-925-2943.

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- $16.52 per/hr. The positions are available on a seasonal/full-time basis (45+ hrs. per week) for May to October 2024. Apiary Harvester duties include honey harvesting, collecting & processing of honey No educational requirement, experience an asset. Apiary Harvester position may require some evening & weekend work. All applicants must be in good physical conditions and able to work in a fast-paced team environment.

Experience an asset. All Applicants must be able to work in the presence of bees. Apply with resume to Todd Eastman at P & J Apiaries Inc., p.j.apiaries.applicants@shaw.ca, Fax.: 780 349 6610. (Location 61232 – RR240 Westlock Co. AB.) PHILPOTT HONEY PRODUCERS LTD. located 10 kms north of Brooks is accepting resumes for Apiary workers for the 2023 beekeeping season. The position starts Feb 1st, 2023 and carries on until Oct 31st, 2023. 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, 2023. 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

AP HONEY FARM LTD in Wanham AB for the 2023 season is seeking two positions for Apiary Technician (NOC 8253) $15.65 - $17 with two 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, 2023. Staff accomm available. Send resumes to Artur Pala palashoney@ hotmail.com or fax 780 694 2282.

P & J APIARIES INC. We are seeking interested applicants in the Westlock County area for the following positions, including... (6) APIARY LABOURER(S)- NOC 8431 (6) Positions- $15.65 per/hr. The positions are available on a seasonal/ full-time basis (45+hrs. per week) for May to October 2023. Apiary Labourer duties include honey harvesting, collecting & processing of honey No educational requirement, experience an asset. Apiary Labourer 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.

No educational requirement, 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. HONEY MEADOWS FARM is located 10 km south of Calgary at 226012 72st St. E Foothills, Alberta. We are looking to hire 14 beekeepers for the 2023 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:8431- $15.65/ 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.

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SEVERSON HONEY FARM at 48143 Range Rd 204 Camrose, AB, requires 3 Apiary Supervisors/ Forman (noc8253) for the 2023 year. Must have a minimum of 5 yearexperience in commercial beekeeping, wages start at $17–$21 depending on experience. Must be able to supervise 3-4 people & operate trucks & equipment.

Be organized, maintain records, work in team environment. This position is full-time 40+ hrs/ week. On farm accomm avail. Please send resume to Russell at rads@netkaster.ca 780-608-0076 SUPERNUC APIARIES located near Granum, AB (251032 TWP RD 104) has the following positions for the 2023 season. APIARY TECHNICIAN (NOC 8431) 1 position; wage starting at $16.50 - $20.00/hr, and APIARY WORKERS (NOC 8431) 2 positions: starting at $15.65 - $18.00/hr, needed full time (45+ hrs/wk) from Mar 1, 2023 through October 31, 2023. Apiary technicians must have a minimum of 3 seasons of full-time experience in a Canadian commercial apiary and have the ability to supervise/train staff, have knowledge in commercial hive management for pollination, honey production and queenrearing and the ability to assess hive health and care for them in the appropriate manner. Apiary workers must have a minimum of 1 season full time experience in a Canadian commercial apiary. Duties include assisting technicians with beehive maintenance and treatments, building

April 2023

Alberta Bee News

Classifieds

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

FOR SALE

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.

depending on experience. Bonuses Possible) February thru November 2023. 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 & 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

FOR SALE: 4 full hives, 10 frames, 2022

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-$22/ hr depending on experience. Bonuses possible) February thru November 2023. 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/hr.

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

FOR SALE HONEYBEAR APIARIES LTD. in Leduc completed our major downsizing in 2022 to just 200 hives put into winter. This spring I will decide if I keep hives beyond 2023. There may be a very limited number of brood chambers, supers, nucs and bee blowers available. This spring the Dakota Gunness uncapper, frame lifter and roller assembly, three Dadant 60 frame extractors with speed controls, several moyno pumps and a nice 10 barrel SS honey tank may be sold. Text Barrie Termeer at 780-446-6924 for updates and pictures and to get on the waiting list.

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queens.

Please contact John 780.454.8886 or 825.440.9895.

Kolodij

FOR SALE: 60 totes, food grade. Located in Brooks. Call 403-501-4787

FOR SALE: Commercial beekeeping operation in Sask. selling 1000 colonies at end of 2023 pollination season. Available last week of July (p.s.

3 fields in Bow Island hailed out and colonies AVAILABLE NOW). Double brood chamber, avail with super if required (additional). $450 each for small qty; larger quantities price negotiable.

Colonies located Medicine Hat, AB, and Bow Island, SK. Contact Neil at sweetheart.pollinators@ sasktel.net or 306-463-8864.

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 NUCS FOR SALE Our (5X2) 10 deep frame nuc colonies with laying queens are great for getting your beekeeping season off to a strong start. Nucs come pre-Treated for Varroa, Nosema, and AFB and are ready for installation. Orders typically are ready for pickup in the Fraser Valley area late April early May. We have an excellent record of highly productive healthy honeybees. Nucs are raised in the Fraser Valley and will be inspected by provincial apiculturist for interprovincial sale.

Your Nuc order includes: • (5x2) 10 deep frame nuc box • 2 actively laying queens • 2 strong deep frames of brood and young larvae (all stages) covered with Bees.

• 2 strong deep frames of feed (Honey) and Pollen covered with Bees.

Now accepting orders for Spring 2023 delivery ($325 per nuc). There is a limited supply; place your orders early to ensure that your order will be filled.

Contact: info@paradisvalleyhoney.com Or Danny at 780-837-0302. Paradis Valley Honey, www.paradisvalleyhoney.com

www.albertabeekeepers.ca

Alberta Bee News

April 2023

PM40010040

RETURN UNDELIVERABLE ITEMS TO Alberta Beekeepers Commission 11434 – 168 Street Edmonton AB T5M3T9 30