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Welcome to the Apiary Program

The purpose of this program is to prevent the introduction and/or spread of regulated honey bee diseases, parasites, and undesirable genetic material in resident and migratory honey bee colonies, as well as encourage and maintain interstate movement of honey bees for crop pollination and honey production.

Major responsibilities of the program include: licensing of resident beekeepers and permitting the entry of migratory bees from other states into Maine; inspection of resident and migratory honey bee colonies for regulated diseases and parasites; surveying commercial bee keeping operations for Africanized honey bee; and educating beekeepers, growers, and the general public about bee keeping techniques and the value of honeybees to Maine agriculture.

Anyone who keeps honeybees in the state MUST obtain an apiary license (see LEGAL NOTICE - Registration of Bees). Print an Application for an Apiary License (pdf).

Go to the Maine State Beekeepers Association website for information on beekeeping in Maine.

A list of beekeepers that are willing to collect colonies of bees that have swarmed (swarm collectors) is now available online. Call (207) 287-3891.

 

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