Page 25 - Agric Info Mag 2018 - 01

around SVG and set a positive example for the
through training and capacity building of young
farmers including women. many other farmers groups that were formed re-
cently. The integrity of the SVG Beekeepers Asso-
Local production of other by-products, for example ciation must always be preserved and maintain its
beeswax to reduce importation.
status as a non-political, not-for-profit organization
Our overall objective is to establish a platform for serving its members and clients for the interest of
the growth and sustainability of beekeeping in St. sustaining livelihood and the wellness of our nation.
Vincent and the Grenadines during 2018 – 2019 to
produce and replenish up to 200 hives annually sup- Even so, soon, we had envisioned that the honey
ported by an efficient bee breeding program. The industry will eventually contribute more than one
first aim is to meet our local demand for honey. A (1) million dollars to the agricultural sector in SVG.
total of 1800 gallon annually is achievable within
the next 2.5 years as long as the recommendations

Perone Hive

are implemented; after which, our industry can then
target exportation.

Since 2010, honey production has been over 1000
gallons. Our highest honey production was in 2012,
1748 gallons (equivalent to 874 cases of 750ml bot-
tles). Honey production has seen a reduction since
2012 even after having over than 500 domesticated
colonies since 2015. This was due to the challenges
previously mentioned. The apiculture industry in
SVG indeed is at a very critical point of growth.

The SVG Beekeepers Association now plays a cru-
cial role in achieving these goals for the honey in-
dustry. A vibrant association will lobby with all im- Local Honey
portant stakeholders, institutions, and people in and