Honeybees
Welcome to the Honeybees Program!
Honeybees are a not native to the United States, and are classified as a livestock species. These helpful pollinators generate honey and wax that can be used for food and other products. This site will provide helpful information for those interested in beekeeping as well as established beekeepers.
This material is based upon work supported by USDA/NIFA under Award Number 2021-70027-34722.
Beekeeping Resources
Beekeeping has been increasing in popularity. Whether you are interested in beekeeping, or just want to learn more, we are working to provide accessible resources. In general beekeeping is governed by the Oklahoma Apiary Act, which provides regulations as well as protection for beekeepers. Since bees are livestock, beekeepers can benefit from USDA farm support programs for registered hives. More detailed resources and contact information are available below.
For questions regarding ODAFF apiary licenses, inspections, and complaints, please contact Joe Rackley, ODAFF State Survey Coordinator and interim State Apiarist at (405) 205-2709 or via email at joe.rackley@ag.ok.gov.
Beekeeping
Introduction to Beekeeping Online Course
This course is designed to help prepare you with the basics of beekeeping.
Additional Information
Honeybee Resources
Extension Resources
OSU Extension researchers have released publications to assist those with an interest in beekeeping and honey production.
- Beginning Honey Beekeeping Equipment and Associated Costs
- Bee Budget Spreadsheet
- Beekeeping-Honey Harvest Methods, Costs and Breakeven Calculations
- Beekeeping Multiproduct Costs and Break-Even Calculations
- Disaster Assistance for Honeybee Producers
- Honeybee Diseases and Their Recognition
- Nectar and Pollen Plants of Oklahoma
ODAFF Forms
The Oklahoma Department of Ag, Food and Forestry offers assistance to those interested in beekeeping.