New Generally Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices (GAAMPs) include minor changes to section on honeybees in 2025
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) have approved sections in the Generally Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices (GAAMPs) that have impact on beekeepers and the honeybees they raise. These updates and guidelines in the GAAMPs don’t serve as laws or rules but more as guidelines and recommendations to keep neighbors in your community content and safe. Following state and federal regulations that pertain to safe beekeeping is still required to prevent harm to the surrounding ecosystems, habitats, and neighboring communities. The Approved GAAMPs for the year of 2025 will also guide beekeepers on how to avoid nuisance litigation.
The process to update the GAAMPs starts early in the year as the committee of experts make revisions they determine fit. Revisions are based off new science, industry experts, and nuisance complaints. In summer, the committee submits changes and accepts public comment, which is then incorporated into the draft. In fall, the advisory committee chairperson proposes changes to MDARD, who then accepts the proposal for the upcoming year.
As of 2025, the changes made to the Care of Farm Animals GAAMPs is minor. The reference for some of the information within the section has been updated. As new research is conducted, whether that be field, office, or lab work, advancements take place. Leading to information that supports ideas and innovation. State research on honeybees involves safe handling, transportation, and other husbandry methods. The updated references in the honeybee section support new research and already established information. Other animal management revisions were added to the Care of Farm Animals section, although honeybee management stayed almost identical.
The GAAMPs is very important as it encourages an environment that is suitable for the beekeeper, bees, and neighboring properties/neighbors. Although the approved 2025 Care for Farm Animals section didn’t have many notable updates, refreshing and familiarizing yourself with this year’s GAAMPs will lead to safety and success!
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