wildflower honey

​In the spring of 2023, The Pasture started a small honey operation to complement our meadows, planted with native wildflowers and grasses. Our harvests yield a honey that is light in color but rich in flavor. 

​Raw wildflower honey is unique in taste, structure, and texture, due to its polyfloral sources and the natural pollen, bee propolis, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals contained in the honey. ​​

Wildflower honey has many potential benefits, including:

• Antioxidants: Wildflower honey contains antioxidants that can help protect organs from oxidative stress and cellular mutation, which may lower the risk of cancer and other chronic diseases.
• Immune system: Honey's antioxidants can boost the immune system and help treat colds caused by infections.
• Digestion: Honey's enzymes can help with digestion and nutrient absorption, and the simple sugars in honey can be absorbed directly into the bloodstream.
• Inflammation: Wildflower honey can help treat certain types of inflammation because it contains the original amount of pollen, bee propolis, and trace vitamins.
• Sore throats: Wildflower honey's viscous texture can soothe sore throats and dry coughs by creating a layer over the throat's tissue and mucous membranes.
• Allergies: Local wildflower honey may help treat allergies by soothing sore throats and acting as a natural cough suppressant. It may also help with hay fever reactions to pollen.
• Energy: Wildflower honey can help boost energy levels because it contains rich carbohydrates, essential sugar, and minerals.
• Blood Sugar: Wildflower honey is also a healthier alternative to processed sugar because it has a low glycemic index, making it a good option for people who need to watch their blood sugar levels.

bees and agriculture

Eastern North Dakota is rich in cropland with a focus on corn, potatoes, sugar beets, grains, sunflowers, and beans. Honey bees are invaluable to a healthy agricultural economy, pollinating a significant portion of our crops (80% per farmers.gov) and contributing to the value of production.
 
Unfortunately, bee populations across North America have dropped at notable rates, likely due to dwindling habitats, diseases, parasites, and environmental contaminants. This decline can be slowed or reversed with sustainable agricultural practices that protect pollinators and promote healthy, high-value plants and habitats. Per the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a study from Montana State University found that rangelands enrolled in rest-rotation grazing produced better habitat for native pollinators than pastures with no livestock grazing.
 
With our farm’s environmentally friendly practices, we hope to positively impact the number of active and healthy bee colonies in Eastern North Dakota, promoting increased yields and quality crops for both growers and consumers in our community.