Tennessee Enhances Beekeeping Services

“Bee pollination is estimated to contribute as much as $118 million in additional value to Tennessee crops, so it is vital to keep our bee colonies healthy,” said state Agriculture Commissioner Ken Givens. “By registering Tennessee beekeepers, we are helping protect a very important resource to the state.” 

 

Honeybees play an important role in increasing the quantity and quality of many agricultural crops as well as assuring the reproduction of countless species of plants including wildflowers. Also, honeybees provide several other products that are enjoyed by Tennesseans such as honey and bees wax.

 

State law requires all apiarists/beekeepers be registered with TDA, and every three years they must re-register. Offering registration online registration allows the state apiarist to contact beekeepers in the event of a disease outbreak or aerial pesticide spraying in their area. Registration also gives the beekeepers the opportunity for free inspections to make sure their colonies are healthy.

 

Another exciting announcement is the new Beemaster classes being offered through the University of Tennessee. The classes provide information on how to become and succeed as a beekeeper. They are taught by Dr. John Skinner of UT Extension and state apiarist Michael Studer. This course also qualifies beekeepers for 50 percent cost share through the Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program.

 

“The beemaster classes will hopefully get more people involved in this industry and give them the tools to have healthy colonies,” said Studer. “The classes provide good information that is applicable to the novice beekeepers and the more experienced.”

 

TAEP is a state funded program established by Governor Phil Bredesen and supported by the General Assembly to increase farm income in Tennessee by helping farmers invest in better farming practices and by encouraging diversification and innovation. Through TAEP, farmers can qualify for 35 - 50 percent cost share on a variety of projects. Beekeepers can qualify for cost share enhancement assistance in order to enhance their honeybee operations and increase their pollination services and honey production. This includes apiary expansion, beehives, honey processing equipment and trailers for pollination service.

 

For more information on TDA’s Apiary Section, visit www.tennessee.gov/agriculture/regulatory/apiary. For more information on the UT Beemaster Program or to register for a class, visit http://bees.tennessee.edu/beemaster.htm.