2008 Resolutions of the American Beekeeping Federation, Inc.
The following Resolutions were adopted at the Annual Business Meeting in Sacramento, California, Jan. 12, 2008.
1. SERVICES AND ASSISTANCE AT CONVENTION
WHEREAS, the American Beekeeping Federation is grateful for the cooperation, support and work of those who helped make the 2008 Convention a success; now,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF Executive Director be instructed to express our appreciation to the American Honey Producers Association, California State Beekeepers Association, the Sacramento Area Beekeepers Association and all others who contributed their time, efforts and resources to make this 2008 convention a notable national event for our beekeeping industry.
2. CONVENTION SPEAKERS, EXHIBITORS AND SPONSORS
WHEREAS, the exceptional speakers at this year’s joint ABF/AHPA Convention have significantly contributed to the success of this event and to the knowledge and understanding across our industry through those in attendance; and,
WHEREAS, the advertisers in the Convention Guidebook have underwritten the publication of a valuable convention and publicity resource; and,
WHEREAS, the sponsors of the refreshment breaks have enhanced the convention experience and assisted in the sociability of the convention; and,
WHEREAS, the Trade Show exhibitors have generated interest in the convention by the display of their inventories and have provided educational opportunities by showing their latest product developments and have generously donated merchandise to various fundraising activities; and,
WHEREAS, the American Honey Show entrants and sponsors have made it possible for some of the best of America’s honey, beeswax, hive products and related retail packaged items to be placed on exhibit; now,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF Executive Director be instructed to write letters of appreciation to the speakers, Guidebook advertisers, break sponsors, Trade Show exhibitors, and Honey Show sponsors and entrants for their participation and support for these special programs of our annual convention.
3. “THANKS” TO CONVENTION, PROGRAM COMMITTEES AND VOLUNTEERS
WHEREAS, the success of the American Beekeeping Federation’s 2008 Convention is largely credited to the help of volunteers; and,
WHEREAS, the seamless operation of our convention activities is the result of the dedicated work by the 2008 Convention Committee; now,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF express our sincere appreciation to Convention Committee Chairman Zac Browning, and all those who participated in preparation and planning for the 2008 Convention; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that commendations are due to Larry Connor and the presenters for their work on the Serious Sideline Symposium II.
4. AMERICAN HONEY QUEEN PROGRAM
WHEREAS, the American Honey Queen Program makes an important contribution to the promotion of honey; and,
WHEREAS, this promotion to the consuming public is a vital component of a successful beekeeping industry; and,
WHEREAS, the benefits and results of this program depend largely upon the dedication and efforts of the committee members; now,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that we acknowledge the work of the Honey Queen Committee, Chairperson Patty Sundberg, Assistant Chairperson Anna Kettlewell, 2007 American Honey Queen Kelly Tjepkes, and 2007 American Honey Princess Katie Klett for their positive representation of our industry during the past twelve months.
5. STANDARD OF IDENTITY FOR HONEY
WHEREAS, deceptively labeled and misbranded products, and adulteration of honey with other sweeteners or compounds are growing problems; and their increasing presence in the market is severely and adversely affecting honey prices, and threatens the image and reality of honey as a pure, natural and healthy sweetener; and,
WHEREAS, these misbranded and/or adulterated products may induce consumers to purchase the product under the false belief or impression that the product is only pure honey when they are in fact adulterated, and/or induce purchase of products with honey in the product name or front panel label under the false impression or belief that the product contains honey as its principal sweetener when the product contains no honey or less honey than other sweeteners; and,
WHEREAS, a Standard of Identity for Honey is urgently needed to protect honey consumers, honey packers and honey producers from false, deceptive and misleading product labeling, and the lack of a standard of identity of honey impairs the ability of the honey industry to protect the image of honey and protect consumers from adulterated and/or deceptively labeled products, and creates an emergency; now
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF urge FDA to adopt a Standard of Identity for Honey as expeditiously as possible; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the ABF use any and all legislative means to effect the adoption of a Standard of Identity for Honey; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the ABF request the aid and financial help of other industry groups, State and Local governments, other Farm and Commodity Lobby organizations, and FDA to achieve promulgation of a Standard of Identity for Honey as soon as possible.
6. NATIONAL BEEKEEPING RESEARCH COORDINATOR
WHEREAS, the beekeeping industry needs to access outside funds for needed research; and,
WHEREAS, the ABF has no one presently to seek out and obtain such funds; and,
WHEREAS, The Foundation for the Preservation of Honey Bees exists as a possible vehicle for such funds; now,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF Board of Directors consider the retention of a development officer to garner funds for future research projects.
7. GENETICALLY ENGINEERED ALFALFA
WHEREAS, a U.S. District Court has issued an order to stop the proliferation and planting of genetically engineered Alfalfa (GE Alfalfa); and,
WHEREAS, APHIS is conducting an environmental impact study (EIS) regarding GE or “Roundup Ready” alfalfa; and,
WHEREAS, seed dealers and manufactures of GE alfalfa have requested that growers not place bees on or near properties planted with GE alfalfa in order to avoid cross pollination issues; and,
WHEREAS, there are concerns that GE alfalfa nectar and pollen would create unmarketable or even undesirable effects on the honey bees; and,
WHEREAS, proliferation of GE Alfalfa severely limit traditional honey bee foraging lands and opportunities; now,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOVLED, that the ABF submit letters to USDA/APHIS and the U.S. House and Senate Agriculture Committees requesting immediate suspension of the use and sale of all genetically modified varieties of alfalfa, until further research is conducted to ensure the safety and security of the agriculture community and related interests, including but, not limited to, honey bees and other pollinators.
8. CALIFORNIA SEEDLESS MANDARIN ORANGE PLANTINGS
WHEREAS, over one-quarter million colonies of honey bees are placed within the Citrus belt of Central California each year for honey production and crop pollination.;,
WHEREAS, some members of the California citrus industry attempted to impose a ban on the placement of honey bee colonies within two miles of certain mandarin orange plantings; and,
WHEREAS, if such a ban was enacted the ability of beekeepers to maintain colony health, produce citrus honey, and pollinate crops will be severely diminished as most of the citrus belt would be off-limits to honey bee colonies; and,
WHEREAS, the California State Beekeepers Association is participating in discussions with the California Citrus Industry in an effort to prevent the implementation of this potential precedent-setting ban; now,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF support the actions of the California State Beekeepers association in their efforts to help assure that beekeepers maintain their lawful right to keep bees throughout the citrus belt of California; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that ABF members be urged to contribute to the California State Beekeepers Association’s “Location Protection/Right to Farm Fund”.
9. NAP DISASTER BENEFITS
WHEREAS, USDA has established NAP, a crop disaster program for non-insured crops such as honey; and,
WHEREAS, when beekeepers apply for NAP benefits for honey crop losses there is some confusion among USDA-FAS personnel on payment type whether honey is a harvested or unharvested crop; and,
WHEREAS, the benefit difference between harvested and unharvested crop is substantial; now,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that ABF be in contact with USDA-FSA to resolve the confusion by having honey losses under NAP covered both as unharvested and harvested.
10. CONSERVATION RESERVE PROGRAM (CRP) LANDS
WHEREAS, the Conservation Reserve Program, administrated by The United States Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency and Natural Resource and Conservation Service plays an important role in the management of bee hive locations in many states by providing set-a-side acreages of land intended for the benefit of the land, wildlife, the environment, and the farm community; and,
WHEREAS, over time, management practices on CRP lands have changed, allowing stewards to use methods of weed control that often severely limit the intended benefit of beneficial legumes planted within the stands; and,
WHEREAS, some local FSA officials have deemed placing bees within contracted CRP acres a violation of CRP rules; and,
WHEREAS, the farm bill authorizes new enrollment of acres in CRP and other conservation programs allowing continued opportunities for beekeepers to potentially locate apiaries in CRP acres; now,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF conduct efforts to ensure that provisions exist for the placement of apiaries in all current and proposed conservation programs; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the ABF encourage the planting and cultivation of legume rich seed formulations for conservation acres using management practices that protect the intent of the program.
11. COLONY COLLAPSE DISORDER (CCD)
WHEREAS, large numbers of honey bee colonies have been lost due to Colony Collapse Disorder; and,
WHEREAS, continued losses of the current magnitude threaten the viability of the beekeeping industry in the United States; and,
WHEREAS, efforts to diagnose and control this disorder have not yet resulted in any clear causes or recommended treatment to overcome the disease; now,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF appoint a committee to investigate avenues of funding and research to address this disorder; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the ABF work with other industry organizations, honey bee researchers, and honey bee-dependent industries to procure funding for research and solutions.
12. BEE POLLEN FOR BEE FEED
WHEREAS, U.S. beekeepers have utilized pollen for many years to stimulate their colonies; and,
WHEREAS, with low production of pollen in the U.S. it is customary to import pollen for bee feed; and,
WHEREAS, the advent of CCD has raised concerns about bee nutrition and there has been a substantial increase in the use of pollen for bee feed; and,
WHEREAS, USDA-APHIS has begun to enforce heretofore unenforced regulations banning the importation of bee feed pollen and may attempt to prosecute users of imported pollen; now,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that ABF work with USDA-APHIS to resolve this dilemma.
13. REGULATION OF HONEY BEE SUPPLEMENTAL FEEDS
WHEREAS, supplemental feeding of honey bee colonies is essential in many commercial beekeeping operations. Pollen and other ingredients of supplemental feeds, in many cases, are imported and/or produced in the United States and moved in interstate commerce. As such, when fed to honey bee colonies, feed components are stored in the hive and could be contaminants in honey. Such would include certain medications and chemicals intended as feed preservatives or for honey bee disease and parasite prevention and control; and,
WHEREAS, honey bees, under USDA Statistical Policy and Internal Revenue Codes are classed as livestock. Therefore feed for honey bees should be regulated under laws and regulations dealing with animal feed; now,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF request the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Association of American Feed, Fertilizer and Pesticide Control Officials regulate commercial honey bee feed diets to insure no additives would harm honey bees or adulterate honey.
14. NATIONAL HONEY BEE PEST SURVEY
WHEREAS, the importation of honey bees from other countries is occurring in unprecedented numbers and other petitions are being reviewed by USDA-APHIS. Tremendous losses of honey bee colonies in the fall/winter of 2006/2007 occurred due to “colony collapse disorder” or other unresolved causes. Viral diseases have been introduced into the U.S. and are vectored by introduced parasites. These events prove undoubtedly that the U.S. beekeeping industry is vulnerable to other exotic pests and the USDA should take stricter measures to prevent the introduction of exotic pests. But first, a baseline of honey bee diseases, parasites and other pests of honey bees must be established to adhere to international policy and trade agreements in order to restrict movement of honey bees into the U.S; now,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF urgently request USDA-APHIS and USDA-ARS to fund and implement such a survey as soon as possible at levels necessary to conduct surveys, not only for Tropilaelaps clareae, but for virus complexes, varroa species and their variants as well as other unknown organisms capable of adversely affecting honey bee health. Such survey should utilize current infrastructure among cooperating state agencies to collect and prep samples for USDA analysis. Therefore, assuming state cooperation in supplying in-kind services utilizing current personnel, ABF requests that adequate funding be budgeted and approved for this much needed baseline survey beginning in 2008.
15. HONEY BEE IMPORTS
WHEREAS, there is concern that imported honey bees may contain known and unknown honey bees pests and diseases; now
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the American Beekeeping Federation go on record as requesting that USDA-APHIS immediately suspend all live honey bee imports into the United States, including both queens and honey bees, until further research can demonstrate that these imports hold no harm for U.S. honey bees.
16. UPDATED METHODS FOR HONEY BEE PEST AND PATHOGENS IDENTIFICATION
WHEREAS, since new pathogens and Africanized honey bees are being found in new southern states, there is a need for a quick identification of these pests and pathogens in the field and laboratory, especially Tropilaelaps clareae, Nosema ceranae, Apis mellifera scutellata (AHB) and Apis mellifera capensis. Also, research is need to develop methodology to identify other mite species as well as other species of pests not yet found in the United States; now,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF request USDA-ARS to set up a quick and immediate identification for honey bee pests and pathogens. With new technology, such as the honey bee pathogen chip (SNP Chip), methods of identification of pests and pathogens must be updated to meet current challenges needed for faster identification in the field and laboratory and to meet emergency management needs.
17. ANNUAL NATIONAL BEEKEEPING CONFRENCE
WHEREAS, the 2008 National Beekeeping Conference in Sacramento California enjoyed a large attendance; and,
WHEREAS, many industry vendors, scientists, inspectors, and beekeepers have attended and benefitted from a unified convention; and,
WHEREAS, a spirit of cooperation and mutuality has pervaded this convention, especially as evidenced by ABF and AHPA working cooperatively; now,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF continue to make every effort toward the establishment of an annual national beekeeping conference.
18. SUCROSE AT WORLD PRICES
WHEREAS, supplemental feeding of honey bee colonies in an integral part of honey bee colony management; and,
WHEREAS, sucrose sugar is frequently used in supplemental feeding of honey bee colonies; now,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that U.S beekeepers be able to purchase, as animal feed, granulated sugar at off-shore prices.
19. OFF-ROAD DIESEL TO MOVE BEES
WHEREAS, the honey bee is the number one pollinator of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and wild trees, bushes, and blooming ground covers; and
WHEREAS, many honey bee colonies are moved to crops requiring pollination on trucks that use diesel fuel; now,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that beekeepers be able to purchase off-road diesel for movement of honey bee colonies.
20. BEEKEEPER CROP INSURANCE
Whereas, USDA has approved two pilot crop insurance programs for honey in several states; and
Whereas, USDA has not yet implemented these approved crop insurance programs, and made them available for beekeepers;
Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved, that the ABF request that USDA-RMA make the approved pilot crop insurance programs immediately available to beekeepers.
Continuing Resolutions 2008
The following Resolutions, originally adopted in the year indicated, were approved as Continuing Resolutions at the Annual Business Meeting in Sacramento, California, Jan. 12, 2008.
CR1. ADDITIONAL FUNDING FOR BEE LABS (1999)
WHEREAS, there is a need for additional funding for USDA-ARS Honey Bee Labs; and,
WHEREAS, the American consumer is concerned with food safety; now,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the American Beekeeping Federation investigate ways of securing additional government funding for research for both honey bees and honey quality.
CR2. FREE TRANSPORT OF BEES AND EQUIPMENT (2000)
WHEREAS, the normal flow of bees across state lines is vital to the well-being of the domestic honey bee industry and the broader agricultural industry; and,
WHEREAS, the obstruction of the movement of bees across state lines would create an undue economic burden on the beekeeping and agricultural industries; now,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the American Beekeeping Federation continue to urge all regulatory entities to preserve the rights of movement of honey bees and equipment with minimal restraint.
CR3. NEED FOR MORE HIVE TREATMENTS (1999)
WHEREAS, the beekeeping industry has only a small number of compounds and methods for the control of parasites and diseases; and,
WHEREAS, resistance to treatments is exacerbated by the limited methods and compounds currently available; and,
WHEREAS, competitive marketing of these compounds is necessary to maximize efficiencies and reduce costs to the beekeeping industry; now,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the American Beekeeping Federation urge all interested parties to work toward these goals; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the ABF encourage USDA-ARS and other governmental and private agencies to seek additional compounds and methods of control.
CR4. SMALL HIVE BEETLE (2000)
WHEREAS, the small hive beetle is a serious and dangerous pest which threatens the domestic honey bee industry; and,
WHEREAS, other agricultural industries that are dependent on pollination by honey bees are threatened; and,
WHEREAS, Coumaphos is the only approved treatment available for use on this pest inside the beehive; and,
WHEREAS, Coumaphos was given a FIFRA, section 18 registration for only one year which is currently expiring; and,
WHEREAS, the development of chemical resistance by a target pest is a likely occurrence with the use of a single chemical treatment; now,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the American Beekeeping Federation urge USDA-ARS to explore other means of control of the small hive beetle for both in-hive and apiary treatment; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the ABF urge EPA to extend the Section 18 registration of Coumaphos.
CR5. ADULTERATED HONEY (2001)
WHEREAS, there is honey, both domestic and imported, being sold in the United States which is adulterated; and,
WHEREAS, this adulterated product is affecting the price of honey in our marketplace in a negative way; and,
WHEREAS, detection methods need to be improved and made more economical to make enforcement possible; and,
WHEREAS, enforcement of adulteration regulations and laws is insufficient to protect the public; now
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the American Beekeeping Federation supports developing better low cost methods of detecting adulterated honey; improving enforcement of the law and helping to make laws with more punitive damages for adulterated honey; regular government testing for adulteration of honey; and pursuing indictments of offenders of adulteration laws and regulations.
CR6. HONEY BEE POLLINATION RESEARCH (2001)
WHEREAS, honey bee crop pollination is critical for the continued success of U.S. food production; and,
WHEREAS, crop pollination is a major activity in the increasingly diverse honey bee industry; and,
WHEREAS, research is needed to help beekeepers provide effective pollination; now,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that USDA’s Agricultural Research Service; Cooperative State Research, Education and Extension Service; National Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program; and Economic Research Service be requested to increase their emphasis on honey bee crop pollination research.
CR7. WORLD TRADE POLICIES (2001)
WHEREAS, World Trade Organization rules and regulations are forcing import and export changes; and,
WHEREAS, bee populations of the U.S. will be negatively impacted by foreign bee populations if imported or transported through the United States; now,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the American Beekeeping Federation ask USDA agencies to consider aiding and supporting the gene pool and populations of the U.S. honey bees as well as taking maximum precautions to avoid importation of unwanted traits and pests.
CR8. HONEY BEE ECOSYSTEM ENHANCEMENT (2001)
WHEREAS, wild, non-cultivated flowering plants are essential and aesthetically pleasing components of our planet’s ecosystem; and,
WHEREAS, honey bees enhance the productivity and propagation of most flowering plants, thereby increasing the biomass and fruit and seed production of wild, non-cultivated flowering plants; and,
WHEREAS, greater plant productivity provides increased forage for wildlife, accelerates development of plant communities and plant cover for conservation programs, erosion control and natural succession following wildfires, logging, or other ecosystem disruptions; and,
WHEREAS, federal, state and private organizations which promote ecosystem preservation, enhancement and regeneration do not always consider the valuable ecosystem services provided by honey bees and the potential benefits of including honey bees in ecological preservation, enhancement or renewal programs; now,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the American Beekeeping Federation encourage additional research to define and quantify the nature and extent of honey bee contributions to natural ecological systems, publicize and communicate the results of such research when conducted; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the ABF urge all appropriate federal and state agencies to include honey bees as integral components of our forests, greenbelts, parks, preserves, reclamation, conservation and other land management programs.
CR9. USDA CROP INSURANCE (2001) Revised (2008)
WHEREAS, the USDA offers crop insurance to many growers and producers of agricultural commodities; and,
WHEREAS, crop insurance is currently not available for honey; and,
WHEREAS, USDA crop insurance offers valuable protection against catastrophic financial losses caused by events beyond the control of the producer; and,
WHEREAS, The United States Department of Agriculture Risk Management Agency (RMA) has approved a pilot crop insurance program for honey in selected states, but has not implemented those approved programs for the 2008 crop year; now,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the American Beekeeping Federation urge the Secretary of Agriculture and RMA director to immediately implement the approved crop insurance pilot program for honey and expand it as soon as possible to at least the top ten honey producing states; and,
THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the ABF share its concern of RMA’s delay with members of the U.S. House and Senate Agriculture Committees.
CR10. NATIONAL HONEY RESEARCH AND PROMOTION BOARD CONTINUATION (Adopted in 2002; Revised in 2004)
WHEREAS, a national honey research and promotion board is essential to promote the use of honey, to conduct and to administrate vital honey research, to protect the industry from adverse publicity and to increase the total consumption of honey; and,
WHEREAS, a national honey research and promotion board promotes U.S. special varietal honeys with unique ongoing programs and research; now,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the American Beekeeping Federation support the continuation of a national honey research and promotion board; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the ABF will continue to work toward improving a national honey research and promotion board to meet the needs of the honey industry.
CR11. PESTICIDE REGISTRATION PROCESS (2003)
WHEREAS, pesticides applied to crops and range land continue to adversely affect the health and viability of honey bees and other pollinators; and,
WHEREAS, the U.S. EPA requires pesticide registrants to submit data pertaining to adult bee toxicity as part of the pesticide registration process; and,
WHEREAS, honey bee brood damage or death, decreased queen and/or drone viability, diminished learning ability and other problems have all been linked to certain pesticides; now,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF urge EPA to consider brood damage and other sub-lethal effects, as well as toxicity to adult bees as requirements of the pesticide registration process.
CR12. HONEY CHEMISTRY AND PESTICIDE RESEARCH FACILITIES (2003)
WHEREAS, honey bees have recently demonstrated significant potential to aid national defense and detect agents of harm while functioning as environmental sentinels; and,
WHEREAS, honey has been used as means of concealing contraband in international commerce to aid terrorist organizations, and the presence of dangerous compounds in the environment may be reflected by their presence, or in a corresponding increase of their concentrations, in honey and/or beeswax; and,
WHEREAS, many pesticides share common structural motifs, modes of physiological action, and neurological effects with compounds potentially used in chemical warfare; and,
WHEREAS, deeper understanding of honey chemistry, contaminant and adulterant detection methodologies, as well as the development of a library of honey samples and standards would aid exploiting the environmental sentinel function of honey bees, and deter use of honey as a means of concealing weapons and other agents of harm; and,
WHEREAS, further study of the effects of pesticides upon bee behavior would increase the potential utility of honey bees as environmental sentinels; now,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF support the establishment of facilities to conduct honey chemistry research, develop a comprehensive library of honey samples and test methods for detection of foreign compounds in honey, and to provide analysis and recommendations to minimize the accumulation of dangerous residues in honey; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the ABF support the establishment of research facilities to investigate the effects of pesticides or other xenobiotics on honey bees, and recommends that EPA consider the effects of these substances upon bee behavior, as well as acute toxicity, when evaluating new pesticides for possible registration.
CR13. REGISTERING NEW ACARACIDES (2004)
WHEREAS, the accumulation of acaricide residues in wax and other hive matrices poses serious problems for bees and beekeepers; and,
WHEREAS, continuing use of the extremely limited repertoire of registered acaricides is causing rapid development of mite populations with elevated tolerance of those compounds; and,
WHEREAS, there is the need for a robust arsenal of weapons to combat Varroa destructor and other honey bee parasites; now
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF encourages EPA to accelerate review and approval of novel acaricides based upon compounds widely used in Canada and Europe, which are efficacious and economical, but result in minimal accumulation of residues in wax and honey, specifically including oxalic acid and similar chemicals.
CR14. APPLIED RESEARCH BEEKEEPING BUSINESS POSITION (2005)
WHEREAS, the U.S. Beekeeping Industry has experienced unprecedented challenges, namely honey bee pests, diseases, and honey imports over the last 20 years; and,
WHEREAS, this industry has spiraled downward in numbers of sound beekeeping operators and bee colony numbers during this time period, even as demand for pollination escalated; and,
WHEREAS, this industry greatly needs an applied research business position to support the industry at the national level, to assist the pollination, honey production, queen rearing, package production and equipment businesses; and,
WHEREAS, improved attention to business basics will ensure a successful bee industry in the future, now
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the ABF support the establishment of an Applied Research Beekeeping Business Position at a Land Grant University in the United States.
CR15. HONEY LABELING REQUIREMENTS (2006)
WHEREAS, the ABF was a participant at the roundtable meetings sponsored by the National Honey Board in San Antonio, TX in December, 2004; and,
WHEREAS, the ABF is concerned about the image of honey being portrayed by misleading labeling; and,
WHEREAS, the roundtable participants agreed that a course of action requiring the misuse of the word honey in describing the contents of a syrup blend of honey must be stopped; and,
WHEREAS, the roundtable participants agreed that the amount of honey present in such a product should be prominently displayed on the front panel of the label as a percentage of pure honey; and,
WHEREAS, the presence of these products is damaging the image of pure honey and could interfere with the use of pure honey and cause confusion with the consumer; now,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF pursue changes to existing law and require the percentage of pure honey to be prominently displayed on the front label of all liquid sweetener products which purport to contain honey, or which contain “honey” on the front panel of the product or use “honey” in the product name.
CR16. HONEY PURITY PROTECTION PROGRAM (2006)
WHEREAS, protecting the pure image of honey is a fundamental priority; and,
WHEREAS; recent issues of chemical and biological contamination, economic adulteration, and food safety (Homeland Security) have led to increased testing and monitoring of honey and honey handling practices; and,
WHEREAS, the U.S. honey industry has no formal guidelines published to outline safe and sanitary honey production and handling practices; and,
WHEREAS, the U.S. honey industry lacks the necessary testing and certification process to allow universal access to the world markets; now
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the American Beekeeping Federation pledge its support for the work of the NHB ad hoc committee and toward a workable Quality Assurance Program and encourage other industry organizations to embrace these goals.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the ABF approve and endorse the USDA/AMS/PPB Extracting Facilities Survey developed by the NHB ad hoc committee or similar procedures and specifications as recommended best practices and extraction facilities guidelines; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the ABF support the implementation of a voluntary Quality Assurance program in conjunction with USDA, using the supplier audit developed by the NHB ad hoc committee or similar procedures and rules as the guideline for extraction facilities.
CR17. HONEY COUNTRY OF ORIGIN (2006)
WHEREAS, current honey labeling practices are confusing and sometimes deceptive, and
WHEREAS, the current practices of honey labeling for identifying country of origin do not accurately reflect the true source of the honey in the package
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF work to establish mandatory and accurate country of origin labeling regulations.
CR18. TRANSGENIC CROPS (2006)
WHEREAS, transgenic crops, genetically modified organisms, and other biotechnologies are transforming production agriculture, with both obvious and potential benefits to beekeepers and apiculture, but also presenting unprecedented actual and potential hazards to pollinators and the environment; now
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF attempt to assess the relative potential risks and benefits of various transgenic cultivars and any associated GMO crop management practices, and when significant risk-of-harm scenarios are identified, communicate the ABF’s concerns to the entities responsible for development, propagation, sale and/or marketing or promotion of potentially dangerous transgenic crops and management practices, as well as appropriate regulatory authorities, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the ABF cooperate with other groups and organizations in pursuit of the aims of reducing the actual and potential perils of genetically modified crops and their attendant management practices for pollinators and the resources upon which pollinators depend.
CR19. NATIONAL PEST SURVEY PROGRAM (2006)
WHEREAS, a National Pest Survey Program compliant with OIE guidelines will be essential for the collection of data on the existence and distribution of honey bee pests within the United States in order to develop objective scientific rationales for the exclusion of exotic honey bee pests and honey bees from countries infested or infected with exotic honey bee pests; and,
WHEREAS, a National Pest Survey Program conducted according to OIE regulations will be necessary to secure permission to export honey bees and honey bee queens; and,
WHEREAS, the Apiary Inspectors of America support a National Pest Survey Program to be conducted under the auspices of the USDA-APHIS, and the participation of the AIA and the Apiary Inspectors from the several states having active apiary inspection programs would potentially reduce the costs and increase the quantity and quality of data collection in any Pest Survey; and,
WHEREAS, the USDA-APHIS has the necessary experience and expertise to conduct such an OIE compliant National Pest Survey Program, and has begun to develop feasibility studies to define the requirements, components and cost of such a program; now,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF urge the Secretary of Agriculture to develop a National Pest Survey Program, and work to obtain support of pollination dependent producer groups and cooperatives to endorse and support ABF and AIA efforts to develop and conduct a National Honey Bee Pest Survey Program.
CR20. HONEY DEFENSE FUND USAGE (2006)
WHEREAS, the ABF is interested in preserving the image of honey; and,
WHEREAS, there is an initiative to create some quality assurance standards; and,
WHEREAS, the quality assurance task force, an ad hoc committee of the National Honey Board, is working on the preservation of the image of honey; and,
WHEREAS, the ABF has funds that are designated for the defense of honey, the ABF Honey Defense Fund; and,
WHEREAS, honey is in danger of losing its great image by the introduction of imitation honey and honey blends; and,
WHEREAS, there may never have been a time when honey’s image is in such danger of being compromised; now,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF use Honey Defense Funds, at the Board of Directors discretion, to fight for the great image of honey by helping to fund worthwhile projects in the ad hoc committees as well as other projects as they see fit.
CR21. CANADIAN TRADE (2006)
WHEREAS, some Canadian officials have suggested informally that US law should be changed to allow importation of Canadian honey bee colonies into the US, and
WHEREAS, exportation of US colonies to Canada should be permitted by Canadian law if any change to US law is made,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF demand reciprocal benefits and equal treatment for US honey bee exports to Canada if Canada petitions for a change in US law to permit Canadian imports to the US.
CR22. USDA HONEY CHEMIST (2006)
WHEREAS, adulteration of honey by sweeteners and other compounds has reached crisis levels, threatening the economic viability of the honey industry and domestic beekeeping and constitutes fraud on the consumer,
WHEREAS, current methods for detection of honey adulterants are unable to identify many potential compounds that may be used to adulterate honey
WHEREAS, contamination of honey with other compounds also threatens the U.S. beekeeping and honey industry; and,
WHEREAS, development, testing, validation and certification of new methods for detecting adulterants and contaminants are urgently needed and would promote honesty and fair dealing with consumers by enabling detection and elimination of counterfeit products from the stream of commerce; and,
WHEREAS, conducting the necessary research to enable development, testing, validation and certification of new methods requires state of the art laboratories, outstanding personnel and a library of validated honey samples; and,
WHEREAS, existing USDA research facilities, infrastructure and expertise would accelerate development of critically important technologies and methods, and provide a natural complement to the current work of USDA in answering the needs of the beekeeping industry; now,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF petition Congress to appropriate funds to provide laboratory facilities, equipment, personnel, and material and initiate a research program on the chemistry of honey, potential and actual honey adulterants, potential honey contaminants, and blends of honey and honey adulterants toward the end of developing, testing, validating and certifying new methods for the detection of adulterants and contaminants in honey.
CR23. ENFORCEMENT OF LABELING LAWS ON HONEY PRODUCTS (2006)
WHEREAS, a body of law, including federal and state statutes, regulations and common law imposes rules regarding labeling of products which have common and usual names; and,
WHEREAS, federal and state statutes, regulations, and common law imposes rules which prohibit deceptive, misleading and confusing product labeling, especially labeling which is dishonest and/or promotes unfair dealing and consumer fraud; and,
WHEREAS, notification of producers, manufacturers, distributors and retailers that they produce, manufacture, distribute or sell products that violate current law might dissuade future violations and lead to voluntary compliance with current law; and,
WHEREAS, notice of violation of current law, accompanied by written demand that further infraction of regulations, statutes and common law cease, and demand that the producer, manufacturer, distributor or retailer desist from future violations of law might dissuade additional violations of law and would be a necessary prelude to submission of any complaint to adjudication in any event; now,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF continue to pursue FDA cease and desist orders or other civil remedies to restrain the deceptive and misleading labeling of honey and honey products.
CR24. ORGANIC ACIDS PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT AND CONTROL (2006)
WHEREAS: the U.S. bee industry is facing catastrophic losses of bee hives, threatening pollination of agricultural crops, including almonds and many others, because varroa mites, small hive beetles, and tracheal mites have developed resistance to many products registered as treatments for varroa mites, small hive beetles, and tracheal mites; and,
WHEREAS, organic acids, including formic and oxalic acids, have demonstrated efficacy in providing control of varroa and tracheal mite infestations; but may require that specific dosages and treatments of organic acids be established for different colony strength, colony equipment and environmental variables; and,
WHEREAS, organic acids are often naturally present in honey, and some are exempt from residue tolerance levels because they occur naturally, volatize quickly and present minimal risks of human toxicity when ingested at levels that accumulate in honey and other hive products after treatment applications; and,
WHEREAS, the costs of development and registration of products containing organic acids are substantial, but the likelihood of obtaining intellectual property protection for new products relying upon organic acids as the active ingredient are low; consequently reducing the economic incentives for entities to pursue development and registration of products containing organic acids; now,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF continue its ongoing efforts to expedite regulatory approval and registration of safe, efficacious products containing organic acids, and especially oxalic acid by submitting and pursuing an application for registration of oxalic acid as a biopesticide for control of varroa.
CR25. U.S. HONEY PROMOTION (2006)
WHEREAS, the American Beekeeping Federation has supported the National Honey Board and its work from the inception of the NHB, and
WHEREAS, the membership of the ABF has greatly benefited from the NHB’s promotion of honey, in particular varietal honey promotions and consumer promotional literature, and
WHEREAS, the future focus of activities of the NHB may change,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF recommit itself to, supporting, augmenting and funding activities that promote consumption of US Honey, especially US honey varietals, production of US honey, and the continued creation and dissemination of information about and uses of, domestically produced honey; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the ABF initiate investigation and contingent planning activities in pursuit of those goals mentioned above, including identification of programs or functions which might be continued in whole or part by the ABF if the NHB is replaced by another research, education and promotion board with reduced producer representation; including ABF investigation of potential funding mechanisms, negotiations with prospective staff, and all other activities which might enable efficient transition and implementation of any such programs or functions.
CR26. SMALL HIVE BEETLE (2006)
WHEREAS, the small hive beetle, Aethina tumida, and the varroa mite, Varroa destructor, both cause substantial damage to honey bee colonies and beekeepers in infested areas, and threaten the domestic beekeeping industry; and,
WHEREAS, the small hive beetle is not easily controlled with conventional pesticides applied in a safe manner; and,
WHEREAS, the control of the small hive beetle with conventional means poses the additional risks of bee mortality, morbidity, reduced productivity, contamination of hive matrices with chemical residues, and the development of resistance to chemical controls; and,
WHEREAS, varroa mites have developed resistance to several conventional pesticides; now
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF urge USDA-ARS to increase the level of funding for research being conducted at the Center for Medical, Agricultural, and Veterinary Entomology in Gainesville, Fla., to develop semiochemically based, environmentally safe and biorational methods for the control of the small hive beetle.
CR27. ESTABLISHING NOTIFICATION POLICY (2006)
WHEREAS, the ABF has no policy regarding ABF officers testifying in civil lawsuits affecting the beekeeping industry;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that ABF officers be encouraged to make the ABF Board of Directors aware of their participating in trials involving bees prior to their involvement.
CR28. SYSTEMIC INSECTICIDES
WHEREAS, the use of pesticide treated seed of nectar-producing crops is becoming more common; and,
WHEREAS, the nectar and pollen from these plants may be harmful to pollinating insects visiting those blossoms; now
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF attempt to assess the potential risks to insect pollinators; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that ABF cooperate with other groups and organizations that have the aim of reducing the potential damage to pollinating insects from crops using pesticide-treated seed.
CR29. HONEY PROMOTION AND EDUCATION (2007)
WHEREAS, the promotion of honey and the importance of the honeybee to our American food supply are basic to the fundamental purpose of the ABF; and,
WHEREAS, educational films regarding the honey industry, such as Bee Movie and books that further the image and value of honey, such as the Hibernation Diet will benefit the beekeeping industry; and,
WHEREAS, beekeepers may benefit from the production and distribution of the aforementioned movie and book; now,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF explore opportunities to educate and inform the public of our industry and its importance through activities related to this book and movie.
CR30. EXPANDING LABOR FOREIGN LABOR OPPORTUNITIES (2007)
WHEREAS, many beekeepers cannot find an adequate supply of labor to fit their business needs from within the borders of the United States; and,
WHEREAS, current labor programs (H2A) prevent foreign workers from obtaining a legal work status that would allow more than short-term status in a position; and,
WHEREAS, current law also does not allow H2A beekeeper workers to move from state to state as many beekeeping operations do; and,
WHEREAS, the H2A program allows custom harvesters to travel from state to state; now,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF pursue legislative avenues to affect changes to the H2A program to allow migratory beekeepers the same opportunities as custom harvesters using the H2A program; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the ABF support legislation that would allow foreign beekeepers easier access to long-term work permits, green cards, and visas, specific to the beekeeping industry.
CR31. U.S. POSTAL SERVICE SHIPMENT OF QUEENS AND PACKAGE BEES
(Adopted in 2002; Revised in 2004; Revised 2007)
WHEREAS, honey bee queens (queens) and honey bee swarms (package bees) must be shipped from bee breeders in the South, Southwest, West and Hawaii, to commercial beekeepers, pollinators, farmers, orchardists, backyard gardeners, and hobbyist beekeepers all over the United States in order to provide critical pollination services wherever needed; and,
WHEREAS, beekeepers, bee breeders and those that depend upon honey bees for pollination have always been and remain dependent upon the United States Postal Service for reliable, efficient and affordable shipment of live queens and package bees, a service that the USPS has historically provided to this relatively small but vital industry which supports so much of U.S. agriculture; now.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the ABF urge USPS to continue this invaluable service to our industry.
