LESSON 8: Selecting the Apiary Site
There are several factors you should consider when selecting a site to place your hives. One of the most important factors is: will there be a sufficient food source near the bees? Bees can forage usually 1-1.5 miles away from the hive fairly easily, so make sure there are food sources within that radius. Open fields with clover are excellent sources as well as near fruit trees and blackberry bushes. Take the time to examine your area to see what kinds of plants are available. Spring sources of nectar and pollen from willow, fruit trees & dandelions are very helpful for colony build-up during the spring.
Next, you want to inspect the actual land where the hives will be placed. First, make sure there is adequate wind protection for the hives. Trees or hedges at 
ground level in the direction of the prevailing winds are a must. Second, don't select an area that is in the shade too much. Long dead grass around the hives can add warmth to a hive and allows for faster colony development. When the weather gets really hot later in the summer it can be necessary to move the hive into a partially shaded area so the bees don't overheat.
When actually placing your hive on the site you have chosen there are a couple of things you should do. First, the entrance should be facing the morning sun. Second, the hive entrance should be leaning forward just a bit like in the picture.
Other factors to consider when selecting a site are:
- Avoid Flood areas
- Can animals get to the hives (ie bears or cattle)
We've spoken to beekeepers in Alaska and they've told us that the best way to keep hives safe is with electric fencing around the hives or electric netting draped over the hive. We've also heard that having a barking dog helps keep bears away but that's more anecdotal.
Even with fencing, we've had reports of hives being pillaged by a very determined bear.
The "clear cuts" and "newly planted" areas of the pine plantation grows all manor of wildflowers; jasmine, honeysuckle, beggars lice, etc.
How many hives can I place on the 6 acres and still be productive hives?
Sorry for the delay in a response.
There really isn't a right answer to this question. Bees can fly up to 7 miles from their hive so they'll find food sources. Some people say 30 hives per acre, but it's hard to really say and put a hard and fast number on it.
If you're new, we'd suggest starting smaller to perfect your hive management skills, then work your way up. Also be sure to check your local ordinances as sometimes city, state, counties, etc have "interesting" rules regarding beekeeping.