Goods and Services Provided
[Updated December 5th/2011]
General Update
Alfalfa crops got off to a good start after an early stubble burn. There was surplus moisture in spring with a few low spots drowned out. This created a perfect spot for Canada Thistle and we mowed down the worst patches. The crop grew well with a reduced bee population of 1.75 gal/acre, and a later bee release July 8-10. The bees had great weather in our area and we finished the year with a good crop & early harvest. Bee reproduction is expected to be well over 2 times.
Leafcutter Bees For Sale
The bees were released later and population densities were down, but they did great. Estimated reproduction may be as high as 2.5 and we expect to have 400 gallons of leafcutter bees for sale. Bee harvest should be complete before Christmas.
Alfalfa Seed For Sale
We had a good crop and great harvest. Our crop has been sold to a Saskatchewan seed processor and we do not have any alfalfa seed for sale this year.
Business Opportunity
We are searching for one or more young people to enter this business. We will provide an excellent opportunity to the right person(s) by providing equipment, shop facilities, necessary supplies. We provide the knowledge and experience and you provide labor in return. This can be a great opportunity.
Surplus Equipment
We have some surplus equipment for sale that we no longer require:
1) 35 +/- Metal frame bee shelters - C/W covers & pegs
2) Four blue plastic shelters on wood bases
3) Two Cold Pak Units (Air condtioners for small incubators)
4) 400 +/- Used 3"x48" nest blocks
5) 100 +/- Used 3"x42" nest blocks
6) 100 =/- used 3"x24" blocks
Custom Pollinating
We seek to expand our custom pollinating services in 2013 and are searching for areas with bush or shelter belts. We believe this is a good venture for farmers with smaller land plots and look forward to developing the alfalfa industry between Lanigan and Craven. Anyone interested in this service should contact us well in advance. A good alfalfa stand requires long term planning. We are very interested in buying or renting land in this area.
Material Handling and Management
Having spent many years in heavy industry, we can offer much information and advice on the handling and storage of leafcutters and related equipment. Efficient use of storage space in shops is very important.
Specialty Crops & Leaf Cutter Bees
As you are aware, the honey bee industry is suffering. We continue to explore and develop the use of leafcutter bees as an alternate and perhaps more effective pollinator in many different crops.
Alfalfa & Leaf Cutter Bee Industry
As grain prices increased over the last few years, some people in this industry have quit or downsized. In the past two years. leaf cutter prices were high. Some producers decided to take profits and sold all or most of their bees. Where does this leave current bee supplies? If you feel this would be a good industry for you, please give us a call. We have helped new growers get started and can offer some good advice.
New Ideas
There is nothing constant in this world and we enjoy the opportunity to converse and work with people in new ventures. We have talked with people in several different countries and fields of interest regarding alfalfa and leafcutter bees. All ideas are worthy of discussion.
Affilations:
Saskatchewan Alfalfa Seed Producers Association
(Name changed to Saskleafcutters in January/2011)
Sask Alfalfa Seed Producers Development Corp.
Sask Forage Seed Development Corp.