Last year in Ontario, the Ontario Beekeepers Association reported that 58% of hives died over the winter—as compared to acceptable winter losses of 15%. We can assume that similar mortality rates would be reported for native bees, if they had an association to speak for them.

Unless a hive is directly disturbed, bees of all kinds are extremely docile, and do not detract from the neighbouring environment. 1 in every 3 bites of food depends on bees, yet the City of Kitchener's Bylaw Enforcement Officers deem bees "pests." Lets call upon the City of Kitchener to use evidence and common sense in their lawmaking and enforcement.

Here is the by-law that is currently being applied to evict bees:

665.12.1 Safe condition - environment protected Exterior property areas shall be maintained in a safe condition and so as not to detract from the neighbouring environment. 665.12.2 Removal - required - specific items Without restricting the generality of Section 665.12.1, such maintenance includes the removal of: (a) rubbish, garbage, waste, litter and debris; (b) injurious insects, termites, rodents, vermin and other pests; (c) trees, bushes and hedges, including any branches or limbs thereof, which are dead, decayed or damaged, and brush; (d) noxious weeds pursuant to theWeed Control Act and any excessive growth of other weeds, grass and bushes; (e) wrecked, dismantled, inoperative, discarded or unlicensed vehicles, trailers, machinery or parts thereof, except in an establishment licensed or authorized to conduct a salvage, wrecking or repair business and then only if such establishment conforms with any relevant by-laws, Chapters or statutes; and (f) dilapidated or collapsed buildings, structures or erections, and the filling in or protecting of any unprotected well.