How Many Beekeepers in the US

Beekeeping Growth in the United States

Beekeeping, also known as apiculture, is a practice that has been around for thousands of years. It involves the maintenance and care of bee colonies, with the primary goal of harvesting honey and other products such as beeswax, pollen, and royal jelly. In recent years, beekeeping has gained popularity in the United States, with many people starting to take an interest in this practice. In this article, we will explore how many beekeepers there are in the US and describe the growth of beekeeping over the last 10 years.

How Many Beekeepers Are There in the US?

The number of beekeepers in the US has been steadily increasing in recent years, but it is difficult to provide an exact figure as there is no central database or registration system for beekeepers. However, based on estimates from various sources, it is believed that there are around 200,000 to 250,000 beekeepers in the US.

Beekeeping is not just limited to commercial beekeepers who have thousands of hives. It is also a popular hobby among individuals who keep bees in their backyards. According to a survey conducted by the Bee Informed Partnership, an organization that tracks the health of honeybee colonies in the US, about 70% of beekeepers have fewer than 25 hives. These small-scale beekeepers are an essential part of the industry and play a crucial role in the pollination of crops and the production of honey.

Growth of Beekeeping over the Last 10 Years

The last decade has seen a significant increase in the popularity of beekeeping in the US. This growth can be attributed to several factors, including increased awareness about the importance of bees in pollination and the decline of honeybee populations due to diseases, pesticides, and habitat loss.

According to data from the USDA, the number of honey-producing colonies in the US has increased from 2.4 million in 2009 to 2.7 million in 2020. This increase in honeybee colonies can be attributed to both commercial beekeepers and hobbyists.

The growth in beekeeping has also been fueled by an increase in demand for local honey and other bee products. Consumers are becoming more conscious of the importance of supporting local agriculture and the benefits of consuming raw, unprocessed honey.

Furthermore, the rise of urban beekeeping has also contributed to the growth of beekeeping in the US. Many cities have now legalized beekeeping, allowing individuals to keep bees in their backyards or on rooftops. Urban beekeeping not only provides a source of fresh honey and other products but also plays a crucial role in pollinating urban gardens and parks.

Another factor that has contributed to the growth of beekeeping in the US is the availability of resources and support for beekeepers. There are now numerous organizations, such as the American Beekeeping Federation and the Bee Informed Partnership, that provide education, training, and resources for beekeepers. These organizations also play a crucial role in tracking the health of honeybee colonies and promoting research to improve beekeeping practices.

Beekeeping has experienced significant growth in the US over the last 10 years. While it is difficult to provide an exact figure on the number of beekeepers in the US, it is estimated that there are around 200,000 to 250,000 beekeepers. This growth can be attributed to various factors, including increased awareness about the importance of bees in pollination, the decline of honeybee populations, and the availability of resources and support for beekeepers. As beekeeping continues to grow in popularity, it will play an increasingly crucial role in ensuring the health of honeybee populations and the sustainability of our food systems.