2011 has been a difficult year for bees and beekeepers. The very hot, dry weather of the summer meant the bees had difficulty getting sufficient pollen and nectar. Then the rains of September kept them inside and they consumed what honey stores they had just to stay alive. The queens stopped laying eggs to preserve food supplies. In September a number of colonies swarmed, which is virtually unheard of so late in the season. Beekeepers have been frantically feeding their bees, but are worried that the bees may starve as the winter progresses.
YOU CAN HELP
• Learn more about bees and how crucial they are to our survival
• Plant a pollinator garden
• Avoid pesticide use
• Become a backyard beekeeper
LOCAL RESOURCES
York County Beekeepers’ Association
York County, PA Master Gardener Program


