What data do I need to create an apiary?

Apiary name, address or GPS coordinates, optional veterinary registration number, plus notes on distances and access.

How do I set distances between apiaries?

In BeeInTouch, you can define a radius to visualize minimum distances. This helps avoid overcrowded locations and robbing.

Can I edit apiaries later?

Yes. You can open, adjust, rename, or archive locations at any time. Changes appear immediately in the overview and on the map.

What is the registration number used for?

The veterinary registration number strengthens traceability, disease prevention and transparency towards authorities and customers.

FAQ – Creating an Apiary

Creating an apiary

With BeeInTouch, you can easily and clearly manage your apiary sites. Precise documentation of each location is key for traceability and transparency – and it also helps you as a beekeeper to place hives at the correct distance from one another. You can define the radius yourself. In just a few steps, you can create, update, and manage all site data.

For a visual guide on how to create an apiary in BeeInTouch, see this YouTube-Video.

Plan well: Criteria for choosing a suitable apiary location

Choose a sensible combination of morning sun and wind protection: early sun activates foragers, while a light windbreak reduces stress. A nearby water source is ideal; otherwise, provide one yourself. Check forage availability throughout the season (spring, summer, late flow) and avoid excessive apiary density – this reduces robbing and disease pressure. Also consider access, theft protection & distance from busy paths or playgrounds.

Setting up an apiary – step by step

Step 1: log in to the BeeInTouch system

Log in to BeeInTouch using your details.
Go to the main menu and select „Stände“.

Step 2: add new apiary

Click on „Plus“-Symbol to create a new apiary.
Enter the basic data:
- Apiary name: Unique designation (e.g., "Orchard North", "Forest Forage South").
- Address or coordinates: Select the point on the map or enter GPS data.
- Registration number: Official number from the competent veterinary authority (if available).
- Radius/Minimum distance: Define a distance to control apiary density and prevent robbing.

Step 3: save new apiary

Review your entries and click „Speichern“.
The new apiary appears on the map and in the overview.
Occasionally perform a quick on-site check: access, ground, wind/sun, disturbances.

Step 4: overview & editing

In the overview, you’ll see all created apiaries with name, position, and optional notes.
Click a location to adjust the name, coordinates, radius, or notes. Changes are applied immediately.

Best practice: distances, neighbours & documentation

With the BeeInTouch radius tool, you can visualise distances, detect overly close placements, and avoid robbing risks. Keep sensitive areas (schools, playgrounds, public paths) in view and notify landowners or neighbours if needed. You can also store contact details for the local veterinary authority and set automatic to-dos for migratory movements – such as reminders for registration, deregistration, or health certificate updates.

Consistent apiary documentation strengthens traceability and quality assurance. It simplifies migrations, inspection planning and harvest management – including clear assignment of batches in your hive or harvest records. This way, you work efficiently, transparently and securely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need GPS coordinates?
Not mandatory, but they improve accuracy. Alternatively, a precise address is sufficient – however, without GPS data, you won’t receive weather forecasts for the location.

How large should the minimum distance be?
It depends on terrain, forage, and colony count. Use the radius as a guide: more distance reduces robbing and simplifies apiary management.

Can I rename or move a location later?
Yes, all data is editable. Changes are immediately reflected on the map and overview.