The Future of Beekeeping in South Dakota looks bright for agriculture [Video]

RAPID CITY, S.D. (KOTA) – South Dakota historically ranks between 1st and 5th in the nation in total honey production, making beekeeping a huge part of the agriculture in the state. As agriculture is South Dakota’s number one industry, beekeeping is essential to the Mount Rushmore state.

“Researchers tell us that one out of every five bites of food that humans consume has been directly affected by the honeybee,” says beekeeper and beekeeping instructor at Western Dakota Technical College, Timothy P. Moran.

Beekeeping is a key player in food security. Without the strength of bee hives in the area, South Dakota’s agriculture would struggle. Pollination is essential in the growth of alfalfa, buckwheat, legumes, sunflowers, and more.

“Particularly here in the Black Hills, the ecosystem, and it’s a sensitive ecosystem here in the Black Hill, without the honeybee, pollinating trees, pollinating plants that other animals sustain their life with, we …