The wildfires in July that affected the Landes and Gironde regions have significantly impacted…

The wildfires in July that affected the Landes and Gironde regions have significantly impacted beekeeping. The Adana (Agency for the Development of Beekeeping in New Aquitaine) has reported the loss of 420 colonies, with numbers still provisional as some areas remained inaccessible as of July 30. Around ten professional beekeepers have suffered losses in their hives and equipment, and some have had to halt sales due to canceled outdoor markets. The long-term effects include a decline in honey-producing flora such as heather, broom, and strawberry trees, which will affect production for several years. Since the fires are not classified as natural disasters, affected operators are ineligible for agricultural disaster aid. In the meantime, solidarity efforts are underway, including emergency transhumance, temporary locations, equipment support, and soon, donations of colonies and swarms. Adana is also seeking collaboration with the forestry sector to find new apiary sites.