The province of Prince Edward Island is looking for a few good beekeepers to expand the Island's bee population and increase pollination through a new program.

 

The Pollination Expansion Program would assist with the purchase of new hives for existing beekeepers and for those looking to get into the industry.

 

Right now, there are 46 beekeepers on the Island responsible for about 6,300 hives.

 

"We are looking at having a more diverse agricultural crop sector here in P.E.I., so some of the crops that we're seeing that are increasing do have a requirement of pollination," said Sebastian Ibarra, an agri-environmental specialist with the province.

 

"We're hoping that with increasing the pollination capacity, those crops will have access to the bees needed to pollinate them," he said. 

 

Under the program, the province would help pay for new hives, bees and frames as well as funding education required for new beekeepers.

 

"One hive could cost anywhere between $300 to $600 depending on where you get your equipment and your bees," explained Ibarra.

 

"Some of these crops wouldn't produce fruit if they weren't visited by bees, so that's why they're essential. They are vital," he added.

 

There are requirements to be considered for the program — beekeepers must be 19 or older and must provide colonies for wild blueberries or other fruit crops. They must also have a minimum of five years of beekeeping experience, be employed by a beekeeper for at least five years or be enrolled in a commercial beekeeping course.