By Laura Steiner, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Milton Reporter
In a bid to support beekeepers in Ontario and bolster the health of honey bee populations, eligible apiarists are now eligible to apply for cost-share funding through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP). This funding initiative aims to facilitate operational improvements that mitigate biosecurity risks, reduce overwintering losses, and manage or prevent the introduction and spread of honey bee pests and diseases.
Funding applications will be accepted continuously as long as program funds remain available.
Key details of this vital program include:
Applicants must have a minimum of ten (10) or more colonies registered with the Provincial Apiarist under the Bees Act for the current beekeeping season in 2023.
Successful applicants must have completed a pest management course related to honey bees, specific to Ontario, within the past two years. Alternatively, within the last five years, they should have attained a diploma or degree in beekeeping from a recognized college or university.
Eligible approved costs will receive a 50% cost-share, up to a maximum of $25,000 per registered commercial beekeeper (with 50 or more registered hives) or $4,500 per registered hobbyist beekeeper (with fewer than 50 registered hives).
To qualify, expenses cannot have been incurred, invoiced, or paid for before submitting an application and receiving written approval. An exception exists for honey bee stock, which can be supported retroactively to April 1, 2023.
Sustainable CAP represents a five-year (2023-2028), $3.5-billion investment by federal, provincial, and territorial governments to enhance the competitiveness, innovation, and resilience of the agriculture, agri-food, and agri-based products sector. This comprehensive initiative includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities, along with a $2.5 billion commitment, shared 60% federally and 40% provincially/territorially, for programs devised and delivered by the provinces and territories.