New bee pollination awareness website launches

A new website has been developed to help crop producers get the full benefit of honey bee pollination. The BeeAware site aims to protect honey bees by promoting the increased yield honey bee pollination provides crops.

“BeeAware lets farmers know what level of bee activity their crops need. For instance, hives are essential for almond products, while avocados need about four hives per hectare to achieve optimum results,” said Minister for Agriculture Barnaby Joyce.

“It’s easy to take for granted pollination provided by honey bees because we currently have good numbers of healthy bees.

“One of our greatest protections is our farmers' observations. There are many countries now where pollination in horticulture is not the natural state of affairs.

“However, exotic pests pose a constant threat. Producers in countries overseas know that some pests of honey bees, such as the varroa mite, can reduce the honey bee population dramatically and, with it, crop yields.”

Contributors to the project include the Australian Government, the honey bee industry and pollinator-reliant industries, through the Pollination Program managed by the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation and Horticulture Australia Limited.

To find the BeeAware website, visit www.beeaware.org.au.