Beekeepers in Newfoundland and Labrador can help ensure the province’s world-class honey bee population remains healthy and pest-free by registering their colonies in anticipation of upcoming mandatory registration, announced in June 2020 as part of legislation to protect honey bees. The online Honey Bee Registration Form is now available for beekeepers to register their colonies.

Honey bees in Newfoundland and Labrador are unique – the province is one of the last places in the world free from Varroa mite (Varroa destructor). This pest is known to decimate honeybee populations and transmit viruses and other pathogens that further weaken and ultimately kill entire colonies. The province’s honey bee colonies are also free of invasive pests, such as Small Hive Beetle, Honey Bee Tracheal Mite, and Greater Wax Moth.

There are approximately 130 beekeepers in Newfoundland and Labrador, operating some 800 colonies. Documenting the number of hives and their locations by registering and inspecting commercial and hobbyist operations can help prevent the spread of Varroa and other bee pests if an incursion occurs, or if pests become present in the province.

Protecting the pest-free and disease-free status of our honey bees is crucial to the agriculture sector and future development of Newfoundland and Labrador-based bee products, including nucleus colonies, queens, honey and beeswax products, pollination services, and secondary products.

For more information on apiculture in Newfoundland and Labrador, please contact Karen Kennedy, provincial apiarist, at 709-637-2662 or by emailing: karenkennedy@gov.nl.ca.

-30-

Media contact
Linda Skinner
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-637-2284, 632-8167
lindaskinner@gov.nl.ca