1. Finding a Place for Your Bees Finding the right spot for your apiary is a critical early decision. Once placed, hives are difficult to move. Many factors point to the right place.

2. Four Primary Factors to Consider in Apiary Placement 1.Accessibility 2.Sunny, dry ground 3.Protection from Wind and Animals 4.Isolated from view

3. Accessibility Small spaces work well, but ease of access is imperative. Vehicle or cart access works best.

4. Sunny & Dry Ground An apiary must be placed on dry, well-drained ground. THE MORE SUN, THE BETTER ! Access to water nearby is important.

5. Wind Protection Wind protection, esp. from westerly winter winds.

6. Protection from Animals Fences may be needed to protect hives from bear.

7. Isolated from view Do you really want your neighbors seeing you looking like this?

8. One thing not to sweat… …the plants living nearby. Bees commonly forage 3+ miles from their hives. 3 miles = 18,093 acres.

9. Other Thoughts on Apiary Site Selection Directional attitude Hives should face EAST to SOUTH Windbreak North to Northwest side Maintain accessibility Air flow Helps ventilation of the colony AVOID DAMP, SHADED SPOTS.

10. Water source Needs to be consistent Provide vs. neighbor’s pool They love muck. Vehicle Access Ease of care vs. harassment Downhill vs. uphill Sun Full sun preferred Keep vegetation down Not near Confined animals Sidewalks.

11. Selecting the Worst Apiary Site Low area – cold Poor air flow Difficult access, requiring long carries up hill Hives in full shade Large animal access.