Relocate hives away from pesticide-treated areas

Move your apiary at least 3-5 km from fields, orchards, or residential areas with known pesticide applications. Scouting a location surrounded by diverse wildflower meadows, woodlands, or organic farmland dramatically reduces colony exposure to harmful chemicals.

Why It Works

Honey bees forage within a 3-5 km radius of their hive. If that radius overlaps with conventionally sprayed crops -- particularly during bloom when bees actively collect nectar and pollen -- exposure is nearly unavoidable. Relocating removes the colony from the contamination zone entirely, which is more effective than any mitigation applied at the hive.

Tips

• Research local crop spray schedules through your county agricultural extension office before choosing a site
• Move hives at night when all foragers are inside, and secure entrances with foam strips
• Talk to neighboring landowners to confirm no aerial spraying occurs nearby
• If permanent relocation is not feasible, temporary moves during peak spray season (spring and early summer) still reduce exposure significantly
• Place hives at least 5 km from the original site so foragers reorient to the new location