It is environmentally sound to compost plant debris from farm operations. If the grower decides to compost on his property, the Code requires that the agricultural waste be composted in a manner that does not cause pollution. Composting sites must be located at least 15 metres from a watercourse and at least 30 metres from any drinking water source. Acceptable composting practices are detailed in the Agricultural Composting Handbook . Three hives per hectare should provide adequate pollination for most orchards.
Pears require five hives per hectare.
Hives should be placed in the orchard when blossoming begins and after insecticide applications have finished to prevent poisoning of bees. Beehives should be removed immediately after completion of the bloom. See the Tree Fruit Production Guide for more details. Roadside fruit stands are considered farm buildings. The Canadian Farm Building Code 1990 contains standards for structural adequacy, fire safety, and health requirements in farm buildings.