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Post by camkbell on Jun 11, 2013 11:32:57 GMT -5
Hey hey,
We were at our farm plot on Foreman Flats the other day, and we were talking to the landowner about getting a beehive to keep on the property. Has anyone tried a hive or two? Do we need to fence it in (maybe even electric fence) so bears can't get it? Will it be alright for us to check on it once or twice a week (not every day)? And finally, whats the approximate cost of setting up one hive?
Thanks!
Cam
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Post by garrendennyfarms on Jun 15, 2013 21:45:51 GMT -5
Getting a beehive is a good idea, but the problem is locating one this time of year. Most of the beekeepers that sell "nucs" take orders into March and then provide them in May. I am buying a nuc/hive right now and its $150 and I am providing the lid, bottom and box. $5 for each extra frame.
Checking on the hive twice a week should be plenty. But if you are not living there you would probably want to run an electric fence to prevent bears from getting in. I had a bear in my hives once, not pretty!
Maureen
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Post by currentcreekfarm on Jun 24, 2013 14:36:25 GMT -5
We have gotten into bees this summer. So far it's been very rewarding. I have put together a spreadsheet with the cost of everything so far for one hive and the tools required. I'm not sure how to post it here though. Bee Maids website is where you want to look for supplies. Also try not to purchase used equipment unless you can get it inspected to ensure it is disease free. Yes, there are diseases that affect bees but don't be discouraged. The end result in raising your own bees is the satisfaction of watching your colony grow healthy and strong. Then there's the honey! As for an electric fence, I think it's a must. try to get a charger that puts out at least 10 kV. You want to give that bear a poke that will discourage him from ever returning. also use aluminium fence wire as opposed to the poly wire. Aluminium is a better conductor. Let me know if you want that spreadsheet and how I post it here.
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Mandi
New Member
Posts: 24
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Post by Mandi on Jul 5, 2013 19:19:00 GMT -5
I have put together a spreadsheet with the cost of everything so far for one hive and the tools required. I'm not sure how to post it here though. What about uploading it to Google Drive and posting the "view" link here? I'd love to see the spreadsheet!!! I can help with the uploading if you like; either by providing guidance or by uploading it on my account (with credit to you of course). Feel free to email me at lonepinefarmbc[at]gmail[dot]com and we can sort it out
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Post by camkbell on Jul 10, 2013 23:58:25 GMT -5
Thanks for the tips everyone! I doubt we'll get around to it this season, but lots to think about for future years. We will definitely plan to install an electric fence.
It would be great to see that spreadsheet too - I like Mandi's suggestion to upload files onto Google Drive. Hope that works out,
Cam
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