.. rst-class:: bee-header

Crop Pollination
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.. qa::

   Why is there demand for pollination services from commercial
   farmers?

   In most areas, there are not adequate numbers of native pollinators
   (bees) to do the job.  Most commercial farmers do not keep honey
   bees. Managing bees year-round requires specialized
   knowledge. Modern agriculture also relies heavily on large-scale
   monocultures, which, bloom all at once, lack sufficient wild
   pollinators and require supplemental managed pollinators to ensure
   adequate fruit set.

.. qa::

   What is the percentage of all US managed colonies required for
   California almond production?

   70–80% of all managed honey bee colonies in the U.S. during bloom.

.. qa::

   What important food plants do NOT require pollination services?

   These crops are primarily wind-pollinated, self-pollinated, or
   vegetatively propagated: Banana, barley, cassava, coconut
   (partially wind/insect, but not bee-dependent for yield), corn,
   millet, potato, rice, rye, sorghum, sweet potato, and wheat

.. qa::

   What percent of the human diet requires insect pollination?

   Pollinators are essential for about 35% of global crop production
   volume and a much higher percentage of nutrient-rich foods

.. qa::

   Name some important nutritious crops in the U.S. that require
   pollination services?

   * Almonds (entirely dependent on insect pollination)
   * Apples
   * Blueberries
   * Cranberries
   * Cucumbers
   * Melons (watermelon, cantaloupe)
   * Strawberries
   * Pears
   * Kiwi

.. qa::

   What are some Georgia crops that rely on pollination services?

   * Blueberries (South Georgia, e.g., Alma region)
   * Apples (North Georgia, e.g., Ellijay)
   * Cucumbers (South Georgia, e.g., Moultrie)
   * Watermelon, squash, and other vegetables

.. qa::

   What are the advantages to farmers of renting pollination services?

   * Increased fruit set (more flowers develop into fruit)
   * Higher yields
   * Larger and more uniform fruit
   * Earlier ripening (higher market value)
   * Improved fruit quality (shape, sugar content, shelf life)

.. qa::

   What is the most important thing a beekeeper can provide for crop
   pollination?

   Strong, healthy colonies.

.. qa::

   What colony strength is recommended for pollination contracts?

   Typical commercial standards include 6–10 frames covered with bees
   and at least 4–6 frames of brood. Colonies should be queenright,
   disease-free and with low mite levels.

.. qa::

   Why is a pollination contract important?

   A formal contract protects both beekeeper and grower.

.. qa::

   What are some key elements a pollination contract should include?

   * No pesticide applications during bloom (or clear communication
     protocols)
   * Hive placement and density
   * Rental fees and payment terms
   * Dates of delivery and removal
   * Liability for pesticide damage
   * Without a contract, pesticide exposure can result in total colony
     loss, far exceeding pollination income.

.. qa::

   Why is timing of hive placement important?

   If colonies are placed too early bees may forage on competing blooms
   (clover, weeds) and may not be strong enough for peak bloom. Move bees
   just as crop bloom begins (5–10% bloom) Include placement timing in
   the contract to avoid misunderstandings.

.. qa::

   What environmental factors can limit pollination success?

   * Rain: reduces foraging activity
   * Temperature: bees typically forage above ~55°F (13°C)
   * Wind: reduces flight and flower visitation
   * Crops may bloom under poor conditions, but pollination can still
     fail if bees cannot forage.

.. qa::

   Why is hive placement within the field important?

   * Honey bees prefer to forage close to the hive.
   * Typical effective range is a few hundred feet to ~½ mile, with
     most activity near the hive.
   * Distribute colonies throughout the field, not just along edges
   * Avoid clustering all hives in one location
   * Ensure access for trucks but minimize disturbance

.. qa::

   When and how should bees be moved?

   * Timing: Move colonies at night or very early morning when foragers are
     inside
   * Secure entrances (screened for ventilation)
   * Use top ventilation to prevent overheating
   * Strap hives securely during transport
   * Minimize travel stress and vibration