Sweet deal: Virginia agriculture officials look to boost honeybee population with free hives

State agriculture officials want to boost Virginia’s honeybee population by offering free beehives to residents.

Only a limited number of participants will be eligible to receive three do-it-yourself hives. The owners will be responsible for the rest including personal safety equipment and honey processing.

State Apiarist Keith Tignor said honeybees colonies have suffered losses in past years and are essential pollinators for a third of all Virginia fruit and vegetable crops.

Applications can be submitted after July 20 by clicking here.

(IMAGE: E. Amendola / Associated Press)