UPDATE 2011: The Bee Project is over! It seems the hives we had on the plots were just to close to their allotment neighbours. Several plots became unworkable whenever the bees were active, with some members reacting severely to stings. Our bee beekeepers tried everything they could but the problem remained. So, the bees have been relocated and all the materials used on the project re-deployed around the site. The bee suits have been donated to Lancaster Beekeepers for education work.
Many thanks to all who contributed to try and make it work.
After several requests to keep bees on the plots we are establishing an area for hives on the allotment site.
We are restricting bee-keeping to this area so we know that we are keeping the right amount of bees in a sustainable way.
We have been awarded funding to establish the plot by...
and...
Lancashire Green Partnership Awards
Here's what our first beekeepers want to say about bees on our plot...
Imagine how your allotment would look if there were
no bees to pollinate your vegetables, fruit and flowers? This is not a make believe scenario as
sadly there has been a dramatic decline in the number of bees in the UK and
abroad. Indeed, without beekeepers
to care for honeybees they could disappear within the next few years.
The B-Plot will provide space for up to 4 beekeepers, with no more than 2 hives each. The new ‘B-Plot’ would be surrounded by a 6 ft fence, a locked gate and hedging. The hives would be secured to the ground and strapped to prevent them being knocked over in the event of unwanted intruders.
The new ‘B-Plot’ will cost the Fairfield Allotment Association nothing. There are grants available for the setting-up costs (fencing, hedging and gate) and the beekeepers will provide their own bees and equipment
Any allotmenter can apply to keep bees on the ‘bee plot’ but will be expected to first complete the courses offered by Lancaster Beepers http://www.lancaster-beekeepers.org.uk/ and have taken, or be intending to take, the basic exam of the British Bee Keeping Association http://www.britishbee.org.uk/ Bee keeping is a fascinating hobby but it is also a serious and responsible undertaking. For these reasons allotment holders interested in keeping bees need training and must have a good understanding of how to care for their bees.
Of course, there will be allotment holders who are interested in bees and beekeeping but do not want or are unable to keep bees. Part of the funding applications for the ‘bee plot’ will include bee suits for 2 adults and 2 children. This will enable anyone wanting to see what bee keeping is about at close quarters. The beekeepers will also be delighted to share their interest and enthusiasm.
The B-Plot is now up and running and the hedge is about to be planted (October 2010) to help form a more substantial barrier for the bees and make it look more attractive!