B.C. government shines light on vital contributions of honey bees

The B.C. government is recognizing the tireless efforts of some thankless workers – bees.

To honour the pivotal role bees play for both British Columbians and the agriculture industry, May 29 was proclaimed the Day of the Honey Bee.

“Honey bees and pollinators may be tiny but they contribute so much to our food supply, our ecosystem and our daily lives,” said Lana Popham, minister of agriculture and food.

“I’m passionate about supporting B.C. bees and our amazing beekeepers, and I am thrilled we are extending the Bee BC programs so we can continue to see community projects around the province that promote bee health while boosting our food security and food economy at the same time.”

The Bee BC Program helps support regional projects with “research, hive sustainability and public awareness and education” said a government statement.

The program will be extended for three years and will receive $225,000 of new funding and applications for the program will open Monday.

Heather Higo, president of the BC Honey Producers Association (BCHPA) said this program improves the security of the food chain by ensuring a thriving bee population.

“This translates into better food security for British Columbians, through improved food systems and gives beekeepers access to important tools and support in their continued efforts to keep bees safe,” Higo said.

According to the government statement, “honey bees and native pollinators … contribute an estimated $250 million to $300 million per year to the provincial economy”