Almond Bloom in California

The Almond bloom is starting in California. There are tens of thousands of acres of Almond trees in California. Northern California is one of very few places in the world to grow Almond trees. Almond trees start blooming in February and depending on the variety, may bloom into March. Over a million colonies of bees are needed for pollination. Beekeepers can receive up to $200.00 per colony to pollinate an Almond growers crop. If you do the math 200 x 1000 colonies= $200,000.00 for six weeks of work. It sounds like easy money but it takes work.

Pallets of bees in an Almond Grove

Payment is based on colony strength. Weak hives are paid much less than strong hives. Prices are based on frames of brood in a colony.
almond bloom 2016 
The Almond bloom is critical for Minnesota beekeepers. We have Minnesota beekeepers in California pollinating the Almonds. Also, our bees come from this area. The pollen and nectar coming in from the Almond blooms stimulate bee colonies. Queens will increase egg production during this time. Large quantities of drones will also be produced. This increased hive production will be the package bees and queens coming to Minnesota/Wisconsin in April.
Where ever there is money to be made there are scoundrels pouncing on the hard working beekeepers. Thieves can make off with your bees.
http://www.nbcnews.com/business/business-news/bee-thieves-buzz-killjoy-almond-growers-n514956