Organic beekeeping is like natural beekeeping, except that it is governed by very stringent regulations set by the FDA. You can be an all natural beekeeper, yet still not meet all the requirements of an organic beekeeper.
Natural beekeeping is a term that has been set by the beekeepers themselves, so it is not really regulated by legalities, whereas organic producers are. Legality...that is the main difference between organic beekeeping and "natural" beekeeping.
There are actually three main factors that both the natural beekeeper and the organic beekeeper focus on, the hive, and the place where the bees get their nectar from, and the environment the bees are in. Let's take a closer look at all three and go into a bit more detail on each of these three main factors....
The Place where the Nectar Comes From
The reason why there are so few organic beekeepers is because the FDA requires that the hives be located in isolated areas away from population, traffic, farm fields that are treated with chemicals, industry, and away from landfills. Now the hard part is that bees fly as far away as four miles. That is why the area has to be isolated. Now, natural beekeeping is not as stringent, but natural beekeepers are ever watchful for stagnate water, chemicals in the air, and want to know where the bees are getting their nectar from and keeping it as clean as possible from harmful chemicals.
Most commercial bee keepers do not practice natural beekeeping techniques. This has lead to an overall weakening of the bee colonies, because of the amounts of chemicals these commercial beekeepers use to avoid mites and other illnesses. They also feed their colonies with supplements and syrups, which beekeepers, who practice natural beekeeping do not.
The Management of the Hive
Most natural beekeepers want well constructed hives, which are designed well with the best interest of the bee in mind. They tend to get hives that are made out of cedar, because this type of wood keeps its warmth better and doesn't tend to warp.
Natural beekeepers will also pay attention to ventilation, water sources, and the location of the apiary, and the areas from which the nectar will be extracted. The water sources will need to be clean. Bees tend to cool their hive in the summer with water droplets, and are not really picky about where they get their water from.
Hopefully this article will help you realize the difference in natural and organic beekeeping. This information can assist you when starting out or learning how to start beekeeping, or if you are just beginning beekeeping.
Now, get out in the sun and start your beekeeping today!
