Federated Farmers Bees Chairperson, John Hartnell

It has been a long time between drinks - our apologies for lack of news through the "BIG Picture" this year. Earthquakes and subsequent work with the "Farmy Army" took up a great deal of our policy adviser Shona Sluys' time. Then there were a few staffing issues , as you will see later in this issue, but hopefully things will be more settled in the new year.

A new season dawns, and New Zealand's beekeepers are hard at work building bee numbers, making splits and breeding new queens for spring replacements. This is a critical time as hives require feeding, both honey and pollen or there appropriate substitutes, to ensure they have sufficient pollination and honey gathering strength when required so I hope things have gone well.

In the North Island pollination of Kiwifruit is underway. Regretfully PSA and the Kiwifruit Industries determination to use antibiotic sprays on the affected orchards have raised many concerns for beekeepers. Antibiotic residues in bee products such as pollen, honey and beeswax would destroy key market confidence and see our quality products severely discounted or banned totally.

Understanding the risks this decision has triggered, it is not surprising that a large number of hives historically used for kiwifruit pollination before moving to the honey flow, have been withdrawn from the pollination market. Beekeepers consider protecting their export markets for quality single source honey varieties such as Manuka, takes precedence.

The 2010/2011 season saw a drop in honey production of 3083 metric tonne, with Marlborough, Nelson, West Coast and Canterbury being the most effected region followed by the Coromandel and the Bay of Plenty. This fall is a direct reflection of the weather conditions hampering honey collection, either too dry or too cold. Like farming and horticulture, our inputs rose considerably, in particular fuel, supplementary feed sugar, which cost up to a 45 percent premium over the 2009/10 season, labour and the cost of export honey drums.

 Nationally hive numbers have continued to increase, with 3,267 registered beekeepers, 23,449 apiaries and 390,523 hives. This increase was mainly in the North Island and is a reflection of the rising value and increased demand for Manuka honey across our world markets. Perhaps the work of the National Pest Management Strategy taking a hard line on non registration of apiaries and hives, an offence knowingly committed by both hobbyist and commercial beekeepers alike has also contributed to this.

 Market prices for pollen, propolis and Beeswax remain solid, although pollen production was well down last season and this is a trend that will continue I believe. Export of live bees (package bees, and queens) provided a good income stream in 2010/2011 and with ongoing reports of declining bee numbers world-wide this should continue. Canada was our largest market, taking 31.5 metric tonnes of packages. Export queens totaled 14,000 with Canada and the UK being our largest markets.

John Hartnell
Chairperson
Federated Farmers Bees
Phone: 03 349 5590
Fax: 03 349 5592
Mobile: 021 578 754
Email: john@hartnellnz.com

Your Chairman and committee members are constantly involved in a wide variety of issues that affect our industry, either through the Bee Products Standards Council or other industry-focused groups.

Pests and diseases remain a constant threat, with Varroa still very much on our radar; beekeepers in the lower South Island are facing the final assault, and many have under-estimated the impact this nasty mite has on a beehive. If humans do not intervene, the hive will die and quickly. Compounding problems for North Island beekeepers is the resistance being shown by the mite to synthetic pyrethroid active ingredients used in mitecides, this outcome mirrors the problems experienced in other countries which tend to kick in after ten years of constant treatment. The only option is to change chemical families, but availability is limited.

Pyrrolizidine Alkaloides - South Island Beekeepers have taken up the challenge and analysis work should be commencing this month. Pyrrolizidine Alkaloides (PA's) predominantly come from the Vipers Bugloss plant (Blue Borage) - Echimidine PA, it is a naturally sown plant which inhabits vast areas of country throughout the North and South Island.

Still on the industry radar is the threat of Australian imports and the Australian Honey Import Health Standard.  MAFBNZ have yet to finish the testing of samples collected after a NZ wide survey to test for Israeli Acute Paralysis Virus (IAPV), this will be concluded later this year, As will heat treatment trials about to be undertaken in a UK Lab to determine at what heat level AFB and IAPV can be neutralized. One could ask the question have we been traded for apples, I certainly hope not.

Pesticide Sprays - Beekeepers in intensive orchard regions report moderate to severe bee losses in some regions, this is a reflection of differing crops flowering at different times and the cross over effect of over-spraying or spray drift from one orchard or crop to another in close proximity.

Bee Safe, Spray Safe - It is a good time to remind orchardists, farmers and spray contractors to read the label and the recommended spraying times, don't kill the pollinator as without them life would be very different.

Honey Standards - The Bee Products Standards Council (BPSC) has employed Standards New Zealand to finalise and verify the honey standards currently used on a voluntary basis. This work will also include standards covering Activity and MG relating to Honey.

Flowers for Healthy Bees - The SFF funded programme is just completing its first year. Dr Linda Newstrom-Lloyd has been active throughout the country talking to beekeepers and farmers, collecting pollen and plant samples. Linda and her team are still looking for two or three farms in the South Island on which to continue their research so if you are aware of anyone in your neck of the woods who may be interested pass on their contact details to Linda, direct, or to Bob Douglas at Federated Farmers (0800 327 646).

We will also be seeking additional funding for his project over the next weeks. We see the work that Linda is doing to be vital for the future of the industry as we strive to get more "bee friendly" farms, so please respond generously when the call comes - and urge others to do the same.

GMO - A recent ruling by the EU Courts has seen GMO Pollen (and honey) banned by EU markets. It is fortunate that New Zealand does not allow commercial crops of GMO plants as this is now a key issue across Europe. We must pay attention as a mistake or otherwise will impact across many NZ food sectors and damage the creditability of our food products. This ruling should keep NZ honey in the top tare of the world market.

West Coast - Hives came out of the winter this spring in very poor condition in most areas, the worst I have seen. We have had 18 percent losses and the remaining hives were weak making it difficult to split hives. I do not know how beekeepers in countries with CCD and 30 plus percentage losses manage to get hive numbers back each year.

Currently things have certainly improved with the hives looking a lot better at close to average condition and the losses recovered although there will be no extras. At this stage the sugar feeding would stop if we could get a run of fine weather. Quintinea and Kamahi are starting to flower and beekeepers are busy removing Varroa treatments and putting boxes on.

The weather has been wet over the last month with not much heavy rain and the odd fine hot day helping access to apiaries.  Snow on the ground in Blackball on the 5^th Nov was a real surprise this is usually a once in five or so yearly winter event. We will be hoping for a hot fine summer and a good season.

Hives will need testing for mites a couple of months after removing mite treatments, one area which had the strips removed three weeks ago already have mites visible on the drone brood when the boxes are split.  Last year hives showed signs of PMS after three months without treatment.

Gary Glasson

Mackenzie - This spring started off worryingly dry, with only a few millimeters of rain in both August and September. By the end of the first week of October the country side was starting to burn off.

Then it rained, 100mm for October and 12mm for the start of November, and what a difference.  I have not seen the High Country looking so good this time of year. We only need a few top up rains to keep the plants going and we should be in for a good crop.

As far as beekeeping goes, it has been a good spring. With very little wind and some nice hot days in between the rain the hives have done well, with a very good mating over all.

Varroa is under control, Varroa treatment strips start coming out this week and it will be interesting to see how much Varroa show up in the autumn.

It won't be long before the migration of hives to the higher altitude high country starts, as the hieracium is just starting to flower.

Hope you all are ready for a good crop.

Peter Bell

Central Otago - The winter was mild and damp with only a few frosts around minus ten. Hives had wintered down heavy due to a good tail end for most.

Some Varroa treatments were applied in late in Alexandra because small numbers of mite were found in April in areas thought still be varroa free. Some commercials used oxalic acid with varying success (the variance discovered in the spring), others used strips and treated everything as a rule.

Most Beekeepers report a good spring with reasonable willow and Dandelion. However a series of southerly weather systems has slowed things down. Further south it has been very wet with access to hives difficult.

Those doing pollination struggled to have really strong hives, although they had a short run at the willow before pollination which was unusual. Orchardists report average to good pollination in the cherries and good pollination in apricots.

The thyme flow is off to a shaky start with many hives looking strong but unable to forage because of the cold and swarming is an issue, with the stop-start weather.

On the bright side, with a wet October and November we are well set for a very good white honey season. It is two years since we have been able to have a go at comb honey so there is a good feeling of anticipation about.

Hive thefts have reared again, with three separate thefts of a total of 18 hives.

Varroa is of course well established around Queenstown, Cromwell and Wanaka. It has also been found at St Bathans and is likely to be found in Roxburgh with the movement of hives through pollination, this season. We have reports of some hives being treated for the first time and showing thousands of mites. Others that have been treated still showing a few in drone cappings.

Around Alexandra at least, we still have ferals - this includes feral hobbyists: some that are not part of any Organisations.

Roll on summer and some heat!

Michael Vercoe

Mid-Canterbury - We began checking hives in late August and found that generally they had overwintered well. Sugar feeding began in September and by mid September varroa was detected in some of the hives. We decided to treat every hive to simplify the process. The previous three treatments were done with Bayvarol so the decision was made to now treat with the alternative Apivar. So far no hives have been lost to varroa.

Queen rearing also began in September with 4500 cells raised and these have been placed into hives and into surplice tops. The deadline to have all cells out by Christchurch Show weekend - 10 November was met. 

The weather over the spring has been wet and cold ...not a lot of sunshine and not good conditions for mating. We have looked at some hives where cells were inserted in earlier runs and found 90 percent of queens have mated. Quite good as surprises go!!

The rain has left the countryside looking very lush and green, so hopefully and given the right weather conditions it will be a good year for honey production. With 2400 hives booked for carrot pollination the honey take will not be as substantial as it could otherwise be though.

Christmas Greetings to all

John Syme

North Canterbury - Having come through the winter many beekeepers, including myself had higher than normal losses, highlighting the timing of autumn treatments is critical to achieve healthy over wintering stock.

Spring beekeeping has been a trial due to changeable weather, but bees are looking good although a little behind normal strength for this time of year. The rain however, is setting us up for a really good season, providing we don't get North West Gales during nectar flow, as happened last season.

All we need now is the heat to hang around for more than one or two days at a time to activate the nectar flow. Here's hoping for heavy supers.

Organophosphate Reassessment - The assessment by the Environmental Protection Association (EPA) on the phase out of organophosphates continues and submissions were made on 30 November 2011. We received over 200 replies to a survey of members and this was very useful in the formation of our feedback. There was a mixture of responses ranging from support, to the phase out, to concern that some farming management practices will be placed at risk if certain products are no longer available. The EPA has recently been in touch seeking "informal" advice on how to proceed with the review. We have provided some suggestions including a more in-depth survey of actual operators prior to making any further decisions. We are currently working with the EPA to make sure outcomes are workable for farmers.

Biological Control Agent Approval - The EPA has recently approved the application by the Waikato Regional Council to import a biological control agent (Colaspis argentinensis) for the control of the moth plant (Araujia hortorum). The moth plant is a problematic weed species in various parts of the country. We supported the application based on risk analysis and viewed the imported beetle as posing no harm to agriculture.

Biosecurity Reform Bill - The Biosecurity Reform Bill has been reported back by the Primary Select Committee to the House and awaits a second reading. We raised a number of serious concerns we have with the Bill, including the changes to border inspection, Import Health Standard formation, Government Industry Agreements and the Pest Management strategy formation. On assessment a number of useful changes to the draft Bill have been made. Although the changes made are an improvement a number of concerns regarding levies and farmers paying for readiness and response activities continue to progress. On a positive note the legislation is not expected to progress prior to March 2012 and there is still a number of opportunities to work through our concerns with MAF.  It is critical  the Bill enhances our biosecurity and that Government listens to the concerns being raised by the primary sector industry.

Government Industry Agreements - A Primary Industry Group meeting was held at Federated Farmers on 20 September 2011 to discuss current progress with the Government Industry Agreement (GIA) and to assess where common interests sit between different industries. The GIA is being progressed by Government as a way of industry and Government sharing the responsibility and costs for biosecurity readiness and response. A total of 22 industry group representatives were in attendance, with some representing more than one industry group. Wayne McNee (MAF CEO) attended the meeting for a set session. As an outcome a working group has been established to work with MAF to ensure that industry and MAF work as partners rather than in isolation when developing the GIA Master Deed of Agreement. A further meeting is planned for the 19 December and positive changes to the current GIA process are expected.

Conference 2012 - A "Go it alone" conference has been planned for the Bee Industry group for 2012. After a combined conference with the Federation's Grains section, this year we will be concentrating on bees issues.

In line with our policy of moving conference around to see how various areas cope with different conditions, the executive has decided to hold the 2012 conference in the Twizel/Mount Cook area. Peter and Ali Bell will be looking after much of the local arrangements and these include a half-day field trip, possibly by bus with the conference dinner being held at Mount Cook.

Dates have been tentatively set at 23-24 May 2012 so make a note of this in your diaries and keep a watch on the Bees web pages for further details.

Staff Changes - Some staff changes within Federated Farmers have impacted on the Bee Industry Group.

Industry Group Manager, Bob Douglas, was to step down with Policy Adviser Shona Sluys taking over the sole responsibility for the Group. However, some restructuring within the Federation has seen the Bees and Grains Policy Advisers positions combined with Shona and her sister Carly  the Grains Advisor leaving the Federation.

A BIG/Grains Industry Advisor, Nick Hanson has been appointed. He is currently working for CRT as a grains and seed administrator/trader and has a Masters degree in political science. Nick is due to start officially on 19 December and will liaise with Bob Douglas and Mark Ross as he takes full control of the Bees Group.

All the razzamatazz of the Parliamentary elections may be over but our lobbying will still go on. Federated Farmers Bees sent a message to all political parties though the Federation's 2011 "manifesto", reminding them of the importance of the work of bees and how it is essential that the bee must be protected through national biosecurity policy and practice. This is the message"

"The once bright future of the honey bee in New Zealand is under serious threat. The arrival of the Varroa mite in 2000 dramatically changed the future of the bee industry. As it has spread Federated Farmers has seen the decimation of New Zealand's feral/wild beehives, effectively halving the total bee pollination workforce. Without human intervention, this aggressive mite will kill every bee colony in New Zealand.

Pollination provided by the bee industry contributes at least $4.5 billion annually to New Zealand's economy and underpins a further $12.5 billion of export revenue from the horticulture, arable, pastoral and beekeeping sectors. No other industry sector holds such a responsibility; pollination delivers much of the food we eat and a large portion of the products which we export as a nation.

The increasing importance of agricultural sustainability and food security means that honey bee decline both in New Zealand and internationally is of serious concern. Aside from habitat loss, the main issues leading to a pollinator crisis in New Zealand are increasing honey bee pests and diseases, declining floral resources leading to pollen shortages and bee malnutrition and undervaluing the vital role of the beekeeping industry to the economy.

Significant threats to New Zealand's bee population and horticulture, arable and pastoral industries come in the form of bacteria, viruses and invasive insects. Any combination of these combined with Varroa can be devastating and do irreparable damage. It is vital that as a country we recognise the immense value the honey bee delivers and accordingly take immediate steps to strengthen our protection of this key sector. Part of this process must be strong and successful biosecurity measures.

The Federation considers robust Import Health Standards are another crucial tool for the protection of our bee industry. When this fails our industry and many others are put in jeopardy.

The importation of ‘artificial' pollen for use in the kiwifruit industry which occurred under an Import Health Standard relating to nursery stock was unacceptable. The bee industry was never consulted and therefore there were no protocols for testing the pollen for viruses or bacteria. Unfortunately, this may have led to the introduction of PSA into New Zealand kiwifruit orchards. This is an example of why stricter controls are needed on all bee related products coming into New Zealand.

The American Foulbrood Pest Management Strategy's ten year review is still a work in progress and the current strategy stands, almost three years since the review was initiated. This performance offers little comfort for an industry that has driven this strategy and has strived to achieve the goals which were set."

Federated Farmers was encouraged by responses from two political parties in particular and while (at the time of writing) it looks like these may be on the opposition benches we will be reminded them of their support.

To read Federated Farmers ‘Biosecurity Matters' media release click here.

To read Radio New Zealand's article on the Green Party's stance on use of pesticides on honey bees click here.

Two leadership courses will again be held next year. Details about the courses can be found on our website, click here to find out more.  

Getting Your Feet Wet -  Level 1 courses will be held in 2012 on 22 - 23 February, 16 - 17 May and 4 - 5 April and 24 - 25 October.

Shining under the Spotlight - Level 2 courses will be held in 2012 on 4 - 5 April, 11 - 12 July and 28 - 29 November.

These courses provide members with valuable opportunities to develop their leadership skills to benefit both the sector and their businesses.

Use your Membership and SAVE - Extract value from your membership by joining up for the Mobilcard "at pump" or the Allied Petroleum "farm delivery" fuel offers. Call 0800 FARMING (0800 327 646) and our team can connect you with the appropriate fuel business partner. You can also call them direct on 0800 Mobilcard (0800 732 277) or Allied Petroleum freephone 0800 383 566. The Federation is using the scheme for the Field Officer's vehicles as it reduces the operational costs.

Benefits available to all members from Federated Farmers Sponsors and Partners - Federated Farmers is proudly sponsored by many key businesses that give members special offers and great purchasing discounts off products such as mobile communications, paint, water tanks, health insurance, clothing, stationary, Bunnings products, accommodation, tyres and much more.  Click here to see what is available to all members when you show your Federated Farmers New Zealand membership card.

Considering new staff? - Call our customer services team on 0800 327 646 (0800 FARMING) to order the correct employment contract for your staff needs.  An up to date range of Individual Agreements is available including Fixed Term, Casual and Permanent employment contracts.  These employment products are just $50 + GST for members, non members may also purchase these at the unsubsidised price of $150 + GST. 

If you have any questions or comments about matters in this newsletter, or anything else relating to the bee industry, please contact the Bee Industry Group executive or committee by clicking here. Alternatively, you can contact our customer services team on 0800 327 646.