Israeli Honey Production Plummets Amid Habitat Loss
Honey production in Israel has significantly declined over the decades, with average yields per hive dropping from as high as 80 kilograms in the past to around 35 kilograms today. This decrease is attributed to the loss of natural grazing lands due to development, road construction, and deforestation, which reduces the availability of food for bees. Kibbutz Yad Mordechai, a symbol of Israeli honey production since its founding 90 years ago, was an early pioneer in beekeeping, with its initial success attributed to pioneers like Lucya (Lusia) Friedman. In the early days of the state, Yad Mordechai's bees produced an average of 50 kilograms per hive, with peaks of 80 kilograms, benefiting from abundant natural flora.
Beekeepers like 84-year-old Pini Nachmani, a former Israeli Air Force pilot who took up beekeeping after being held captive in Syria, recall a time when citrus groves provided high honey yields. However, newer citrus varieties produce less honey, and the overall reduction in natural foraging areas forces beekeepers to transport their hives to more distant locations like the Golan Heights. Nachmani now cultivates various honey types, including Ziziphus-Za'atar, cotton, eucalyptus, and carob.
Beyond honey production, bees are crucial for pollinating agricultural crops, a service valued at billions of shekels nationally. Gil Shachberg, CEO of the Pollination and Honey Council, which registers approximately 540 beekeepers, highlighted efforts to manage grazing areas and ensure bee survival. The council is actively working to improve bee habitats by planting trees and plants that provide nectar, including a pilot project to reintroduce the Ziziphus tree, known for producing high-quality, sought-after honey.
Historically, the importance of beekeeping to the Israeli economy and community was recognized even in the early years of the state. A 1952 publication from Kibbutz Yad Mordechai noted the improving natural conditions and the significant contribution of beekeeping to the kibbutz's economy, despite its relatively small scale.
