09/09/1994 52200

APIARY INSPECTOR

DEFINITION: This is field work related to the enforcement of the Pennsylvania Apiary Act. Responsibilities include the inspection of apiaries for the detection and control of contagious diseases and mite parasites.

Work involves seasonal activities in the detection, proper diagnosis and control of contagious diseases of bees and the tracing of sources of infection in an assigned area. Employees work with beekeepers, demonstrating methods of controlling and preventing the spread of bee diseases. Work is outlined by a supervisor and may include instructions pertaining to special investigations or inspections. Work is checked by inspection and review of reports.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Visits beekeepers and inspects honey bee colonies.

Checks compliance with existing laws, rules and regulations.

Promotes the prevention and control of communicable disease among honey bees.

Advises and directs the disposal of infected apiary equipment according to existing rules and regulations.

Issues reports of apiary inspections and maintains records.

Reports violators of law, rules or regulations.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of bee-culture and of prevalent bee diseases and necessary control measures.

Ability to comprehend and learn the Apiary Act.

Ability to handle bees without gloves in order to prevent spreading bee diseases. An inspector must be able to tolerate being stung repeatedly.

Ability to maintain records and to compile reports.

Ability to establish effective contacts with beekeepers, and to present information relating to bee-culture and disease control.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: One year of experience as a beekeeper or in related work affording a knowledge of bee handling and bee disease or one year of college course work, majoring in a biological field including a course in apiculture; or 6 months beekeeping experience and a beekeeping short course;

                                                                                                                                                               or

Any equivalent combination of experience and training.