What will I be doing?

Beekeepers raise and manage bees for honey and pollination services. Honey production is obvious, but what is pollination service? Many agricultural crops, such as fruits, require pollination. This service is done by bees. During the appropriate time of the year the orchard owners call you to have bee hives placed near trees. The bees do the rest.

“Wait a minute,” you say. “What if I live in the city?” Can do. You can manage a small hive from a large lot or you can keep hives on a nearby farm.

What will I need to start?

You’ll need bees. Besides that, you’ll need a home for them—hives. You’ll also need bee-handling equipment and a way of transporting the bees to farmers’ fields. You’ll also need some knowledge of bees and some experience handling them.

Where can you get these supplies and knowledge? Start by checking regional telephone books under “Beekeepers’ Supplies” and related headings. They can help you get books and training on beekeeping as well as offer ideas on making your business work.

Who will my customers be?

Customers for your beekeeping service include retail and wholesale honey sellers as well as orchard owners and other agricultural enterprises. You can find them through local beekeeper supply houses, the Department of Agriculture extension offices and the phone book.