I've been asked by an orchard to keep my bees there for pollination. I'm inclined to do it as there is serious forage for bees. In fact, it is 1.5 miles from my house, so the bees probably work this land anyway.
The orchard sprays different things from April to July. They've said that they will give me 24 hours notice when then spray, and will spray the block' that is upwind from the apiary in the early morning or late evening, which ever works best for the bees.
How can I make this situation work? I have a friend who keep his bees on the far side of the 170 acres and he kicks my butt in honey production every year with similar bees and skills. Averages about 100 lbs a year from each hive, even last year which was BAD here in Massachusetts.
Thoughts? I'm planning to keep 25-30 hives here and need some advice from a beek who has actually done this.
Thanks in advance!
The orchard sprays different things from April to July. They've said that they will give me 24 hours notice when then spray, and will spray the block' that is upwind from the apiary in the early morning or late evening, which ever works best for the bees.
How can I make this situation work? I have a friend who keep his bees on the far side of the 170 acres and he kicks my butt in honey production every year with similar bees and skills. Averages about 100 lbs a year from each hive, even last year which was BAD here in Massachusetts.
Thoughts? I'm planning to keep 25-30 hives here and need some advice from a beek who has actually done this.
Thanks in advance!