Apiary Lease

Background
The Suwannee River Water Management District is seeking bids for the lease of six 0.25-acre sites located on two tracts of land in Alachua County for the purpose of conducting an apiary operation. This initiative aligns with the District's mission to manage and protect water resources while supporting agricultural practices.

Work Details
The contract involves leasing six 0.25-acre sites, which together provide a minimum of 10 acres for foraging. Each site can accommodate between 120 to 360 honey bee colonies. The lessee must comply with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Beekeeper Compliance Agreement, which includes maintaining proper signage and colony management practices.

Specific requirements include:
1. Placement of colonies at least 100 feet from any trail unless approved otherwise.
2. Permanent marking of apiary sites with the apiarist's name.
3. Warning signs indicating the presence of colonies must be placed at least 50 feet from the colonies.
4. The annual rent will remain constant over a three-year lease term.

Period of Performance
The lease term is three years from the effective date of the lease agreement, anticipated to start on January 15, 2025.

Place of Performance
The apiary operation will take place on two tracts located in Alachua County: High Springs Wellfield Tract and Santa Fe River Ranch Tract.