RICHMOND (WINA) – The state agriculture department will be taking applications for its 2023 Beehive Distribution Program beginning in a couple of weeks. State Apiarist Keith Tignor says honeybees are essential pollinators for fruits and vegetables consumed by humans and wildlife, and this program can help counteract dramatic honeybee losses the state has experienced over the past several decades.

The program provides hives only… the honeybees and protective equipMent acquisition is up to you. The application period begins August 28th and goes through September 12th. You must be a Virginia resident at least 18 years of age, and agree to assemble the equipment and occupy it with a honeybee colony within a year of receiving it.

To learn more about the Beehive Distribution Program or to submit an application beginning August 28, 2023, please visit the Beehive Distribution Program website. For more information, contact the VDACS Office of Plant Industry Services at 804.786.3515 or vabees@vdacs.virginia.gov