Florida's Bee Colonies On The Rise Thanks To New Program
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TALLAHASSEE (CBSMiami/AP) — Things are looking up for the bee industry in the Sunshine State.
Florida's managed bee colonies have increased by more than 145 percent in the last eight years, thanks to a successful partnership between beekeepers and growers.
The state started a program two years ago that encouraged beekeepers and agricultural growers to share best practices, including ways to use pesticides that would help both industries thrive.
The voluntary partnership has helped ensure the safety of bee hives near citrus trees. It's is now part of a strategy released by the White House.
State agriculture officials say bee colonies play a critical role in helping pollinate Florida's agricultural commodities and stabilizing the nation's food supply.
Citrus and honey production and pollination services for many agricultural commodities are important sectors of Florida's $120 billion agriculture industry.
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