Are you a beekeeper (or aspiring beekeeper) living in Virginia? Do you like free stuff?
If you answered yes to both of these questions, you’ll be pleased to learn that beekeepers in Virginia can apply to receive free equipment, starting July 1.
In an effort to counteract hive losses due to disease and exotic pests, the state’s 2019 General Assembly approved $125,000 for the Beehive Distribution Program. The program aims to increase the number of hives throughout the state.
Last year, Virginia approved the same program, with great success and an overwhelming response.
Virginia residents age 18 or over can apply to receive up to three beehive units. Successful applicants will be registered as beekeepers in the state. This means that they must keep their hives in Virginia and cannot sell them out of state.
It also means that the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has the right to inspect the hives for pests and diseases, to prevent them from spreading. In the past 10 to 15 years, the state lost about half of its beehives to these menaces.
If you’re thinking of applying, don’t hesitate! Online applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis, and applications will close when all of the program’s funding has been spent. Last year, all available equipment was claimed by the end of July.
At Marshall’s Farm Natural Honey, we take a hand-crafted approach to traditional honey production, cultivating our hives in the unique microclimates of the San Francisco Bay Area. Place your order today and taste the difference!