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Unveiling sweet success: hewanorra honey show & st.

The event was held at the Hewanorra Beach Resort in St. Lucia, from March 15th to 17th, 2019.

The Importance of Beekeeping in the OECS Region

Beekeeping is a vital activity in the OECS region, providing essential services such as pollination and honey production. The region’s diverse flora and fauna create a unique environment that supports a wide range of bee species. The OECS region is home to over 100 species of bees, including the Caribbean honey bee (Apis mellifera carolinensis), which is endemic to the region. Beekeeping plays a crucial role in maintaining the region’s ecosystem, as bees pollinate a wide range of crops, including fruits, vegetables, and flowers.*

The Challenges Facing Beekeepers in the OECS Region

Despite the importance of beekeeping, the region’s beekeepers face several challenges, including:

  • Colony collapse disorder (CCD): A phenomenon where worker bees disappear or die, leaving the queen and a few nurse bees behind. Varroa mite infestations: A parasite that attacks bees, weakening their immune system and making them more susceptible to diseases. Habitat loss and fragmentation: The destruction and degradation of natural habitats, making it difficult for bees to find food and shelter. ## The 4th OECS/Hewanorra Honey Show and the 12th Caribbean Beekeepers Congress**

    • The 4th OECS/Hewanorra Honey Show and the 12th Caribbean Beekeepers Congress

    The 4th OECS/Hewanorra Honey Show and the 12th Caribbean Beekeepers Congress brought together regional beekeeping experts and enthusiasts.

    The show also featured a variety of educational workshops and demonstrations, including beekeeping techniques, honey harvesting, and bee health.

    The Honey Show: Celebrating the Region’s Beekeeping Community

    The Honey Show was a vibrant celebration of the region’s beekeeping community, showcasing the creativity, resilience, and dedication of its members. The event was a testament to the importance of bees in our ecosystem and the impact of their decline on our environment.

    Artistic and Culinary Contests

    The Honey Show featured a range of artistic and culinary contests that highlighted the region’s beekeeping community’s creativity and passion.

    The Apiculture Economic Scoping Study

    The Apiculture Economic Scoping Study is a comprehensive assessment of the economic potential of apiculture in the OECS region. The study aims to provide a thorough understanding of the industry’s current state, identify areas of growth, and develop strategies for sustainable development.

    Background

    Apiculture, the practice of beekeeping, has been an integral part of the OECS region’s agricultural sector for centuries. The region’s unique geography, with its tropical climate and rich biodiversity, makes it an ideal location for beekeeping. However, the industry has faced significant challenges in recent years, including declining honey production and increasing competition from imported honey.

    Key Findings

    The Apiculture Economic Scoping Study revealed several key findings that highlight the potential for growth and development in the industry:

  • The OECS region has a significant potential for honey production, with an estimated annual production of 10,000 tons. The region’s bee population is estimated to be around 1 million, with a growth rate of 5% per annum. The main honey-producing islands in the OECS region are Dominica, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The main honey varieties produced in the region are Acacia, Manuka, and Wildflower. ### Recommendations

    • Recommendations

    Based on the study’s findings, the following recommendations are made to support the development of the apiculture industry in the OECS region:

  • Establish a regional apiculture association to promote the industry and provide support to beekeepers. Develop a national apiculture policy to guide the industry’s development and provide a framework for sustainable practices.

    The event, which took place in St. Lucia, brought together over 200 participants from 15 countries, showcasing the importance of bee conservation and the role of beekeepers in protecting the environment.

    The Importance of Sustainable Beekeeping

    Sustainable beekeeping is a crucial aspect of environmental conservation, as bees play a vital role in pollinating plants and maintaining ecosystem balance. The loss of bees can have severe consequences, including reduced crop yields and decreased biodiversity.

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