Pollenation Services

[BEE BOB]

What's a reasonable amount to charge for setting up a beehive for crop pollenation?

Thanks.

[shawnwri]

Depends on the crop and what the market will tolerate. I've seen a low of free to highs over $100 for almonds in California.

[Pete0]

Check out the following link: http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/plant&pest/statelist.shtml
This is the info I used to determine what I charged per hive last year. Possibly NC has a similar type site.

Let us know what you determine your fees will be.

Pete0
Bena, VA

[BjornBee]

Bee Bob, Way too many variables. Type crop, local pricing, supply and demand, past expectations and agreemenets, length of pollination, site agreement, etc. I would check with some local bee groups. And don't be afraid of asking some farmers. They may be few, but some beekeeper will talk and some farmer will let you know what he's paying. Local information is the best.

[BjornBee]

BTW, its refreshing to hear someone starting out (I'll assume) that you actually want to get payed the benefit from your labor, and costs. Too many start out offering free pollination for nothing more than a poor honey site.

[BEE BOB]

Thanks all.