MBiz

21 MBiz | november 2016 by how many people have shown interest in the initiative, either by signing up for rooftop demonstrations or approaching them with questions as they go about their work. "I remember coming down from a workshop we did at the Fairmont, and a bunch of guests were in the lobby, like businessmen in suits," says Nikkel. "I was holding an observation hive with a couple of frames of bees, and they stopped us and were so excited that there were bees on the roof. They wanted to know why they were up there, and what the bees would eat … how can they help, and what they should plant in their gardens." The bees in question are European honeybees, a docile but industrious breed whose numbers start at 10,000 to 20,000 per hive in the spring, and grow to 40,000 or 50,000 at peak season. Each hive is capable of producing up to 25 kilograms of honey, which is harvested and bottled in a CFIA-inspected facility, but requires no further processing beyond that. "Honey is one of those amazing foods that's better the less refined it is," says Kirouac. "Right when you crack the hive and stick your finger in there, it's good to go." Both Nikkel and Kirouac hope the city makes further amendments to its bylaws, allowing beekeeping in industrial districts or even residential areas. For one, the move would result in increased varieties of honey, since as Nikkel points out, flavour profiles change based on the plant life that's proximal to each hive. >> BEEPROJECT APIARIES Beekeeping is a family affair for Lindsay Nikkel and Chris Kirouac (seen here inspecting hives). The couple have expanded their operation to Winnipeg rooftops at Red River College, the Fairmont Winnipeg and other locations. Honey harvested from downtown hives is flavoured by urban flowers the bees pollinate. Photos courtesy of Beeproject Apiaries

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