Use of Honey Yield Data to Assess Damage to the Beekeeping Industry of the United States

Honey yield data for each of the 48 conterminous United States were analyzed to determine their usefulness for assessing impact of apicultural problems on the beekeeping industry. Data for 43 years yielded sufficient statistical structure to suggest establishment of assessment standards. Honey yields fluctuated widely from year to year for individual states but relationships between states showed considerable constancy. There were also regional trends. We suggest that national honey production regions be established to aid in assessment of impact of tracheal mite infestations, Africanized bees, and Varroa mites on the beekeeping industry.