Busy Times Begin for Estonia's Beekeepers as Spring Arrives

As spring unfolds across Estonia, beekeepers are entering a bustling season marked by the blooming of willows and the arrival of bees foraging for pollen. This time of year is critical for hive management, as beekeepers conduct inspections to assess the health of their colonies following the winter months.

Spring Inspections Yield Mixed Results

Professional beekeeper Lembit Liin, based in Koeru, reported a positive outcome during his initial examination of the season. He noted, "The bees wintered very well and have eaten about half of their winter feed." However, Liin also expressed caution about the potential for food shortages that often arise at the end of May, particularly when weather conditions become unpredictable.

Liin praised the spring climate, stating that the bees benefited from warmer weather as early as March, allowing them to undertake cleansing flights. This healthy start prompted the queen bee to increase egg production. Despite a brief cold spell at the beginning of April that slowed colony growth, Liin confirmed that the recent return of pleasant weather has led to considerable brood development, indicating a thriving bee population.

Challenges Faced by Hobbyist Beekeepers

Not all beekeepers share the same level of success. Hobbyist beekeeper Heino Kuusmann from Köisi village discovered that a significant portion of his colonies did not survive the winter, with ten out of fourteen bee colonies perishing.

This year, budget cuts have impacted support for beekeepers. The Agricultural Registers and Information Board (PRIA) previously provided universal funding for bee colonies, extending to hobbyist beekeepers, but this financial assistance has been reduced. Despite these cuts, beekeeping enterprises that contribute to food security remain eligible for state support.

Financial Assistance for Beekeepers

Helen Michaels, chair of the Estonian Beekeepers Association, explained that the state's support for beekeeping enterprises amounts to approximately half a million euros for this year. The funding is primarily aimed at food producers, including businesses with at least 16 registered bee colonies with PRIA. These regulations ensure that the support channelled into the industry contributes to food security across the region.

As the beekeeping season progresses, the efforts of Estonia's beekeepers will play a crucial role in the overall agricultural landscape, with hopes of a successful season ahead.