The governments of Canada and Ontario are increasing funding to the Honey Bee Health Initiative by up to $1 million to help improve the resiliency and competitiveness of beekeeper operations in Ontario. The additional funding will help more Ontario beekeepers better protect their colonies over the winter and protect against invasive pests such as varroa mites which pose a serious threat to honey bee health.

“So many of the crops grown across Ontario depend on healthy bee populations,” said the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. “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, made possible through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), initially opened on September 15, 2023 with a budget of more than $1.3 million. To date, 218 projects have been approved. This initiative builds on previous programs, such as the back-to-back Honey Bee Health Management initiatives offered under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership.

This initiative is delivered by the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA). 

“Ontario’s beekeepers and the honey bee industry are integral parts of Ontario’s food supply and food security,” said Ian Grant, president of the Ontario Beekeepers' Association (OBA). “The OBA welcomes the Ontario government’s further investments into our industry, and thanks Minister Thompson and the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership for their continued support.”

Ontario beekeepers can apply for cost-share funding under the initiative as of June 3, 2024 and the intake will remain open until funding is allocated. Up to 50 per cent of the costs of approved projects may be funded under the initiative. Ontario beekeepers with fewer than 50 colonies are eligible for up to $4,500 total on approved projects and beekeepers with 50 or more colonies are eligible for up to $25,000.

Source:  Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada May 21, 2024 news release