Best Management Practices for Hive Equipment

A well-maintained and hygienic apiary can translate into a successful beekeeping operation.

Why practice diligent hive maintenance?

Beekeepers agree that the most important piece of equipment in the apiary is the beehive, the home of the honey bee.

Hive Maintenance

-  Proper maintenance extends the life of the hive.

          o  Check apiary for hive condition.

          o  Inspect for rotten, loose or broken boards and frames.

          o  Reconstruct, tighten or replace frame parts.

          o  Paint supers with light colors to beat summer heat.

          o  Take advantage of the winter months to do maintenance and prepare for the new season.

-  Check bee attire.

          o  Repair clothes, veil, gloves and bodysuit.

-  Inspect your essential two (2) pieces of equipment.

          o  Smoker and the hive or "universal" tool.

-  Maintain yard equipment.

          o  Inspect and repair trucks, trailers, loaders and forklifts.

          o  Repair bunkhouses, if applicable.

          o  Eliminate trash in the apiary.

          o  Practice fire safety when the bee smoker is in use.

Hygiene

-  Practice good hygiene with hands, gloves, and other equipment to reduce transmission of pathogens between colonies. 

          o  Replace comb with new foundation to minimize residual chemicals in old wax.

          o  Develop a comb replacement schedule.

          o  Purchase equipment only if it has a history of clean health.

Hive Security

-  Be aware that the probability of hive theft has increased with the increased value of pollinating crops.

          o  Keep equipment simple to identify.

          o  ID hives with a brand or name.

          o  Secure a signed contract when entering into a "wintering deal".

          o  Practice discretion when showing where your yards are located.

The Beekeeper's Goal

-  Keep your equipment in good condition.

-  Good maintenance prolongs the life of hive parts, clothing, vehicles, and other equipment. 

-  Good hygiene reduces the incidences of pests and diseases.

-  Hive security can minimize economic losses.