From the Fields

Fall is finally here and beekeepers are readying their bee hives for winter and next year's almond pollination. The dry conditions through the state and around the country are causing concern for healthy, strong colonies come Feb. 1.

Honey production was down and pollen sources were diminished. The costs are increasing and the political climate has an impact on all of us.

Our company and most beekeepers are doing our best to feed our honeybees quality pollen substitute and sugar to build and maintain strong colonies. Natural pollen is always a plus and to help the beekeeper, farmers (almond growers especially) can apply techniques to increase forage for native pollinators and honeybees.

You can join farmers who are practicing "bee friendly farming." Information can be found on the website Partners for Sustainable Pollination at http://pfspbees.org/contact.htm.

Permission for use is granted, however, credit must be made to the California Farm Bureau Federation when reprinting this item.