The governments of Canada and Ontario are increasing funding to the Honey Bee Health Initiative by up to $1 million, aimed at enhancing the resilience and competitiveness of beekeeper operations in Ontario. This additional funding seeks to empower more Ontario beekeepers to safeguard their colonies through the winter and protect against invasive pests, such as varroa mites, which pose significant threats to honey bee health.
Federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, emphasized the critical role of healthy bee populations in Ontario’s agriculture. “So many of the crops grown across Ontario depend on healthy bee populations,” he said. “We’re expanding this vitally important support for our beekeepers so they can safeguard their livelihoods and keep their honey bee colonies healthy and sustainable.”
The Honey Bee Health Initiative, part of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), was initially launched on September 15, 2023, with a budget exceeding $1.3 million. As of now, 218 projects have been approved under this initiative. It builds upon previous programs like the back-to-back Honey Bee Health Management initiatives under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP).
Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Lisa Thompson, highlighted the crucial role of honey bees in Ontario’s agriculture and food industry. “Honey bees play an important role in our agriculture and food industry as well as in Ontario’s ecosystem,” she said. “This increase to the Honey Bee Health Initiative demonstrates our governments’ commitment to the bee sector and production of honey throughout the province.”
The Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA) administers this initiative, which aligns with the goals outlined in the Grow Ontario Strategy and contributes to the stability of the food supply chain.
“The beekeepers and honey bee industry are vital components of Ontario’s food supply and food security,” stated Ian Grant, President of the Ontario Beekeepers’ Association (OBA). “The OBA welcomes the Ontario government’s additional investments in our industry and thanks Minister Thompson and the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership for their ongoing support.”
This funding increase underscores the commitment of both levels of government to supporting the resilience and sustainability of Ontario’s beekeeping sector and ensuring the continued health and vitality of honey bee populations across the province.