Irbid, July 27 (Petra) - The Northern Jordan Valley Agriculture Directorate urged local beekeepers on Monday to take precautions to safeguard their hives and sustain honey production during the current heatwave.

Director Mohammad Nuaim noted that the region is a primary hub for Jordanian beekeeping, citing its high plant diversity. He stressed that heat-prevention is critical to keeping colonies healthy.

To protect hives from heat stress, the directorate recommends providing shade, proper ventilation, and a continuous source of clean water near the hives. Inspections and hive movements should be done during cooler early morning or late afternoon hours rather than midday.

Nuaim advised beekeepers to supplement feeding if nectar and pollen are scarce, monitor regularly for pests, particularly Varroa mites, and keep apiaries clear of weeds and debris.

Ahead of the upcoming harvest, he urged producers to leave enough honey in the hives to ensure colony strength and productivity, noting that healthy bee populations remain vital for crop pollination and regional food security.

//Petra// HA