Obscure Occupations: The Bee Inspector
The Bee Inspector The Bee Inspector, as you probably guessed, does indeed inspect bees. Bee inspectors are employed, either permanently or seasonally, by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) in Northern Ireland, the National Bee Unit (NBU), a department of The Animal and Plant Agency in England and Wales, and in Scotland by the Directorate for Agriculture and Rural Economy. Their work is supported by law: The Bees Act 1980 and associated Orders must be adhered to by beekeepers. Every Bee Inspector is an experienced practical beekeeper, with additional training in recognising and controlling bee pests and diseases. Bee Inspectors also deliver comprehensive advice and training on apiary management and bee husbandry. Alongside apiary inspections, Bee Inspectors assist with research projects and field trials concerning bee health. Bee Inspectors are not particularly well paid for the degree of responsibility and expertise that they possess....