On April 11 of this year, Ukrainian beekeepers plan to hold a picket near the walls of the Verkhovna Rada due to problems with poisoning bees. This was announced by the director of agro-industrial development of the Sumy Regional State Administration Alexander Maslak of the Department on the air of the UA: Sumy television channel.

One of the most painful issues for beekeepers is the poisoning of bees with pesticides, which farmers cultivate their fields. Last year, such a problem was in several areas of the Sumy region. Affected beekeepers held rallies trying to defend their rights.

The Union of Beekeepers of Ukraine estimated that 20-40 thousand bee colonies were lost in 2018, and the economy did not account for UAH 50 million. According to Alexander Maslak, the problem is that not all agricultural enterprises use permitted chemicals. In addition, beekeepers are not always properly informed.Farmers must report on their plans to introduce “chemistry” to beekeepers and local authorities in 3 days. It is necessary to warn all apiary owners who are within a radius of 10 km. Another problem is the lack of official registration for many beekeepers. Not everyone has passports for their bee colonies and apiaries. In case of death of bees, they cannot demand compensation. Beekeeping is a very promising industry for Ukraine. The country has already become a powerful exporter of honey and has every chance to strengthen its position in the global market. Unfortunately, now the Department does not have a specialist who specializes in beekeeping, summed up Alexander Maslak.