The rental of honeybee colonies is common in many areas of Ohio and is used in fruit, strawberry, legume, sunflower, and vine crop pollination. In these arrangements, there is usually an informal agreement or contract between the beekeeper and the grower. To avoid possible confusion and dispute, it is suggested that a written contract be used for the protection of both parties. A sample pollination contract is available through your local Extension agent or Extension Specialist, Apiculture, 1735 Neil Avenue, Columbus 43210.
Such a document should include the date or stage of bloom at which time bees are to be introduced into the field, removal date, fee to be charged for the initial rental, fee for additional moves, and an agreement concerning pesticides used by the grower. The beekeeper should provide a minimum standard for the colonies he is renting, a topic which will be discussed later in this bulletin under "Minimum Colony Strength." He should be willing to supply the grower with equipment to inspect the colonies as the beekeeper opens them. This also serves as protection to the beekeeper when he is able to show strong colonies. The grower will cooperate more if he sees the importance of good, strong colonies.
* All apiary locations must be registered with the Ohio Department of Agriculture, Reynoldsburg, Ohio.
Beekeepers who rent substandard or dead colonies of bees not only tarnish his reputation but also that of all beekeepers in the area.
Ohio crops requiring bee pollination often do not provide a surplus of honey. Many times colonies lose weight while they are 'hired' out to pollinate a crop. Growers should be aware of this situation and appreciate the risk the beekeeper takes in such moves. Lost honey production is just one of many factors beekeepers take into consideration in setting rental charges.