That kind of honey is good for baking. The Pierre area usually provides a fertile clover area, Brandt said. However, this year was a disappointment. As a result, bees won't be taken to Pierre. While the Brandts transport their bees, the colonies can't be set up anywhere.
Beekeepers look for prime spots, and South Dakota law requires three miles between beekeepers.
Brandt and Pepper gave a final check of the colony, adding some corn syrup to give the bees extra nutrients. The men took out honey, but the bees will rebuild the layer. When the time comes, the crews will move colonies with forklifts to save labor. In the meantime, the crews collect the finished product into 55-gallon drums for sale to packers. Pepper flashed a smile as he looked at the bees and their endless work.