I began pollinating apples in 1982. The price at that time was $22. I
thought that was pretty good - getting that check in June helped pay the bills.
In recent years the price has risen to $35 (I actually have been getting $30,
and the orchard moves the bees).
    I always knew the bees lost strength upon being moved. Rule of thumb is
they lose about a super of honey, and that about equals the pollination fee.
Well, I believe the bees lose more than that. Move half a yard sometime, and
compare the bees after pollination. Not only do the bees lose that super of
honey, but they lose enough strength to make a nuc. Also, you get way behind in
your spring work so you can get your pollinators ready on time for a contract
that has no date.
    I would think that taking all this into account, $50/colony/pollination
should be received.
                                            Mike

Dennis Crutchfield wrote:

> Hello folks,
> I was just wondering what a person should charge for hive rentals.
> preacher