Monitoring System Enhancing the Potential of Urban Beekeeping

Featured Application The monitoring system presented in this work may be applied as a means of honey bee observation and a source of information about the beehive environment, in particular in the framework of urban beekeeping. Urban beekeeping has become increasingly popular, despite having different objectives than the large-scale professional/commercial one. Not so much focused on financial profit, urban apiculture provides valuable educational opportunities, promotes the greening of cities, and creates environmental awareness. Many companies and institutions make it a valuable component of their public relations strategy. Urban beekeeping benefits may be enhanced by applying specialized technical infrastructure. In particular, the use of modern technologies attracts the younger generation to be involved in beekeeping. This paper aims to present the abilities of the automatic monitoring system, which meets the goals of urban beekeeping. The set of equipment consists of a sensor module, video cameras, a unit for data acquisition, and a system for data transmission, presentation, and visualization. The monitoring system allows for real-time observation of the beehive interior and entrance. It continuously measures selected physical and chemical parameters of the beehive atmosphere and provides a record of the beehive's weight. Additionally, ambient air is monitored for reference. The video streaming and measurement results are available to the public online through the dedicated webpage. System performance was evaluated regarding the interactions with honey bees, sensor measurement characteristics, and data collection efficiency. Three months of operation in the urban apiary confirmed that the system is fully functional and fulfills its objectives. System development continues.

Automated summary

This work presents a monitoring system that can be used for honey bee observation and to gather information about the beehive environment, especially in urban beekeeping. Urban beekeeping, with its focus on education, green cities, and environmental awareness, has become increasingly popular. Specialized technical infrastructure, including modern technologies, can enhance the benefits of urban beekeeping, attracting the younger generation to get involved in beekeeping.