Jeff,
 
    If you are planning to drive through the northern parts of the Canadian
    prairies (instead of Can. Rockies first and then northward) you will pass
    through the Peace River country in northern Alberta and British Columbia.
 
    The Peace may be considered the best honey producing area in the world
    (primary flow lasting perhaps 6-8 weeks resulting in crops of 200, 300, and
    sometimes over 400 lbs/colony!!).
 
    I recommend you visit french-speaking Falher (named itself Honey Capital of
    Canada).  For contacting commercial operators in the area, call Doug Colter,
    Chief Inspector, at (403) 837-2211.   In Fairview, there is the Agriculture
    College that offers professional training in commercial beekeeping (403)
    835-6633.  A highly successful program that offers training to overseas
    students as well.  Then, closer to the BC border, there is the Agriculture
    Canada Research Station at Beaverlodge.  This is among the most important
    apicultural research facilities in Canada (403) 354-2212.
 
    Then following the Highway westward, one reaches Dawson Creek in British
    Columbia with 'Mile 0" of the Alaska Highway (it is another 1523 miles
    before you can enjoy the nightlife of Fairbanks!.  Bring some spare tires
    because some sections are not paved).  On your way north, stop-over at
    North-Peace Apiaries right on the Highway (left side, you can't miss it,
    just before entering Fort St. John).  It is a large commercial operation
    that has established its fame with the commercial production of pollen. (Of
    course, they have honey too.)
 
    Beyond Fort St. John, wilderness starts.  By the time you get to Fairbanks,
    you may wish to contact a highly enthusiastic beekeeper who formed the
    Interior Alaska Beekeepers Association some years ago.  Call Stephen
    Petersen at (907) 457-2440.
 
    Have a wonderful trip.  Bring your veil because there are plenty of
    mosquitos in some areas in the summer.
 
 
    Paul van Westendorp                         [log in to unmask]
    Provincial Apiculturist                     ph.  (604) 576-5639
    BC Ministry of Agriculture,                 fx.  (604) 576-5652
        Fisheries & Food