Newbee in Nova Scotia seeking advice

[Adam Foster Collins]

Hello All,

I'm getting excited about taking the leap into beekeeping in the spring here in Nova Scotia, and am researching in preparation.

I have been around bees all my life, as my father and grandfather have always kept bees in Vermont - where I spent summers.

But I'm thinking about starting my own beekeeping with Top Bar hives.

I have questions, and thought it might be easier if i keep them in one thread.

Forgive me if I ask some dumb ones.

First, as I prepare to build hives over the winter, I wonder about which design I might use. I've heard that shorter, deeper hive might work better in this climate. Does anyone have suggestions there? We're actually less severe here than Vermont of Maine. But it tends to be wet and windy, with a lot of fluctuation in temperature - without long deep freezes.

Secondly, we have a limited number of places to obtain bees here, and most are offered in the spring in nucs. How would one go about putting bees from regular frames in a nuc into a TBH?

I thank you for any information you can provide. I'm glad to see people here to talk to - my girlfriend is already tired of the subject as my interest builds - I can't shut up about it!


Adam

[Adam Foster Collins]

I'd also like advice on books I might take a look at on Top bar hives and beekeeping with the TBH. I have been reading a lot online, but I'd like some books as well.

Thanks!

Adam

[laurelmtnlover]

Would recommend any reading of Michael Bush http://www.bushfarms.com/bees.htm

and Dennis Murrell http://beenatural.wordpress.com/

[Adam Foster Collins]

Thanks.

I've seen both sites - read a lot on Michael Bush's site, and also some on Dennis'.
The fact that both of them post here is a major reason for me joining this forum.


Adam

[rpcroll]

Hi,
I can't help much with advice since I have only started one Langstroth this year, but I would love to hear of your progress and see your hive once it is set up. I do not know of anyone around who has TB hives. Are you registered with NS Dept Agriculture? The NS bee inspector may be able to help you. Are you associated with the Hfx Honeybee Soc?
Roger
Hammonds Plains

[Adam Foster Collins]

Hi Roger,

I'm just getting into it. I've been considering it for years, but only just recently discovered TBH's and I'm really interested in that. Being a designer, I like the idea of something I can experiment with. Plus I found out that it is legal to keep bees in the city. I've never even heard of the Hfx Bee Society...

I have no bees yet, no hive, nothing but interest. Right now, I'm working on the design of my hive. Then I'll build two over Christmas at my father's in Vermont. (He's got two Langstroth's and wants to try TBH's as well). Then I'll return to Halifax and build two for myself.

So I'm still looking around for local sources of bees and equipment. Where did you get yours? And how did you do this year on Hammonds Plains?

Good to hear from you!

Adam

[rpcroll]

Adam,
I just came across a page for the Hfx Soc, recently. I think they are about the same stage as you. Just planning now.
http://halifaxhoneybees.wordpress.com/
I got my nuc and equipment from Foote Family Farm in the Valley. Small, funky farm operation but very nice and helpful. Actually you can find their honey at Farmer Clem’s outlets. I think they get their woodenware/equipment from Country Fields, just outside Moncton, and they get their stuff from FW Jones. Yes, there is a bit of a mark up, but nobody seems to be gouging.
As mentioned earlier, you should also get in touch with Joanne Moran, who is the NS Bee agent. jmoran@gov.ns.ca You are required by law to register your hives in Nova Scotia for the sake of disease control. They, however, do not disclose the list to anyone to protect your privacy. No need to worry that your neighbours will find out from them. Nothing like the backyard chicken crisis of last year. I can also give you some info on the NS Beekeepers Assoc. if you would like.
My own hive is doing okay, but had a very slow first year, presumably due to cold wet weather for most of the summer. I still only had a single box by the end of summer and so another local beekeeper in Tantallon lent me a full honey super to tide the girls over winter. (Very, very nice of him!).
Keep in touch.
Roger

[BEES4U]

But I'm thinking about starting my own beekeeping with Top Bar hives.

You might consider a standard of the industry called a Langstroth hive because it's a lot more manageable.
Regards,
Ernie

[Adam Foster Collins]

Thanks Ernie,

I know the langstroth well, as my father uses it. I'm planning to use the TBH for the sake of trying it.

Roger,

I took a look at the hfx society, and sent them a message. I also attempted to contact Ms. Moran a few days ago but haven't heard back yet.

I'll let you know how things go. Thanks again for the info.

Adam

[PerryBee]

Hey Adam and Roger:

Good to see some added representation from Nova Scotia on here!
Roger is correct in that you have to register with the Province (no cost) and it does come with the added benefit of free information should you need it. Joanne can get very busy at times (she covers the whole Province on a part-time basis) but she will get back to you. I started several years ago with 3 nucs from George Foote as well and buy most of my supplies from Country Fields in New Brunswick. Like Roger said, the markup is not that big a deal.
Adam, as for your girfriend being tired of the subject I had to laugh, my wife gave up talking to me about bees long ago, that's why we join forums like this. We can connect with others that "get it" and feel sorry for those that don't.

Perry (in Lunenburg)