In Delaware, all beekeepers must register their hives with the state. The Department of Agriculture issued a reminder of the requirement this week.
The registration form is available here: http://dda.delaware.gov/plantind/forms.shtml
The program is part of an initiative to maintain bee populations in the state. Bees pollinate 15 to 30 percent of the food we eat, according to the USDA. Delaware growers produce a slew of crops dependent on pollination, including watermelons, cucumbers, strawberries, cantaloupes, apples, blueberries, cranberries, squash, pumpkins and brambles.
The Department launched its Managed Pollinator Protection Plan earlier this year. The plan offers best practices and strategies for growers, beekeepers and pesticide applicators to help pollinators thrive. Delaware’s Beekeeping Law also appoints a State Apiarist, who manages the regulation and inspection of bee colonies in the state.
