(Dmitry Grigoriev)

By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

funding will be retroactive

Province commits money to help Alberta’s beekeepers

Jun 7, 2020 | 10:33 AM

The Government of Alberta, with help from Ottawa, says it will support the province’s beekeepers during COVID-19 by providing $1 million in aid.

The Agriculture and Forestry ministry is introducing the funding under what’s called the Canadian Agricultural Partnership program. Money will become available this summer, but will be retroactive to cover issues faced this spring.

“Beekeepers not only help pollinate important crops across Alberta, they make delicious honey products. They have a crucial role in Alberta’s agriculture sector, which is why we are committed to supporting beekeepers with an investment of up to $1 million,” says Devin Dreeshen, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry. “This new program will keep our bee industry competitive after this difficult year.”

It’s noted in a release that because of COVID-19, it’s become more difficult to import more affordable colony replacements from New Zealand and Australia.

“The Alberta Beekeepers Commission is very pleased with the support of the Ministry during this challenging and exceptional time,” adds Jeremy Olthof, president of the Alberta Beekeepers Association. “The commission is grateful for all the hard work and vision to creating a sustainable future for beekeepers by the minister and ministry staff in the development of this new CAP program.”

Sunday theft

Lacombe Police Service investigating two thefts at local arena

27m ago

Last seen Nov. 28

Located: Jimmy Eagle, 27, of Maskwacis

Dec 14, 2025

the situation is dire

Two deaths, possibly from cold exposure, raise alarm amid Red Deer shelter situation and plight of homeless community

Dec 12, 2025

The funding will support 168 commercial beekeepers in Alberta and approximately 13,000 replacement colonies.

The Canadian Agricultural Partnership is a five-year, $3 billion federal-provincial-territorial investment in the agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector.

Alberta produces 41 million pounds of honey annually, contributing $67 million to the economy.

RELATED: Bee expert: A wilder lawn can let pollinators thrive