BEE PRODUCERS BENEFIT FROM LEGISLATIVE CHANGES

The Apiaries Act, 2005 was introduced into the Legislature today. The first Apiaries Act was enacted in 1923 with revisions made in 1979 and 1995. The new act is intended to update the existing legislation and ensure that the necessary legislative authority is there to support the honey industry's efforts to minimize the impact of bee diseases and pests.

"Saskatchewan beekeepers have one of the highest per colony honey production averages in the world," Agriculture and Food Minister Mark Wartman said. "We will continue to support them by consulting and working with them on strategies to counter any new disease or pest threats."

The changes are based on consultations with the Saskatchewan Beekeepers Association. The legislation does not affect the way the industry does its business.

"The viability of our industry is dependant on managing the health of our bee colonies," Saskatchewan Beekeepers Association President Tim Wendell said. "We need Saskatchewan legislation that will support the development of our industry."

"Saskatchewan beekeepers have demonstrated tremendous agricultural growth and diversification over the last 30 years," Wartman said. "The proposed changes will enable the industry to continue to control or minimize diseases and pests through up-to-date legislation."

Averaged over five years; there are about 1,250 beekeepers in the province, who have produced almost 18.5 million pounds of honey per year worth over $26.4 million annually.

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For More Information, Contact:

Scott Brown Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization Regina Phone: (306) 787-4031	Tim Wendell Saskatchewan Beekeeper's Association Yorkton Phone: (204) 564-2315
John Gruszka Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization Prince Albert Phone: (306) 953-2790