Our expanding beekeeping journey

As we step into 2025, we’re excited to focus on expanding our beekeeping operation. After a successful 2024, with high demand for our honey, we are now exploring new locations for additional apiaries. We're focusing on the Furness area and have already identified some promising sites currently under review.

Our growth in beekeeping goes beyond production—we aim to carefully monitor the ecological impact of our new locations. We are committed to ensuring that our operations do not negatively affect local biodiversity or native species. When surveying potential sites, we prioritise maintaining a balance and carefully consider the introduction of beehives to ensure harmony with the surrounding environment.

Our considerations for choosing new locations focus on ensuring harmony with the local ecosystem and minimising any negative impact. Below are the key factors we evaluate:

Impact on Native Pollinators

Competition for Resources: Honeybees can compete with native bees and other pollinators for nectar and pollen, potentially reducing the availability of resources for these species.
Displacement: Large honeybee populations may dominate ecosystems, outcompeting native pollinators.

Floral Resource Availability

Floral Overload: We assess whether there is enough forage for both honeybees and native species during the flowering season.
Seasonal Scarcity: In off-seasons, planting additional forage plants might be necessary to support all pollinators.

Spread of Diseases and Pests

Pathogen Transmission: Honeybees can transmit diseases and pests, like Varroa mites, to native pollinators.
Health Monitoring: Regular health checks and effective hive management help minimise these risks.

Genetic Diversity

Hybridisation: The introduction of managed honeybees could affect the genetic diversity of wild honeybee populations, which we strive to avoid.

Impact on Local Biodiversity

Ecological Imbalance: The presence of honeybees may alter the balance of pollination, favouring some plant species over others and changing the local ecosystem.
Endangered Species: We ensure our operations do not harm or outcompete any endangered species in the area.

Carrying Capacity of the Environment

Overpopulation: We carefully evaluate whether the area can support additional hives without exhausting resources or putting strain on the ecosystem.

Land Use and Surroundings

Pesticide Exposure: We select locations that are free from harmful pesticides to protect bees and other wildlife.
Natural Habitats: Special care is taken to avoid disturbing sensitive habitats like wetlands or forests.

Monitoring and Adaptive Management

Regular Surveys: We continually assess the impact of our apiaries on the local ecosystem.
Adapting Practices: Based on our observations and input from environmental experts, we adjust our practices as needed to maintain balance.

By taking these factors into account, we aim to foster ecological balance, protect biodiversity, and ensure our beekeeping operations are sustainable and environmentally responsible.