Beekeepers on the Northern Rivers can get the latest information on American foulbrood and other pests and diseases of bees at a meeting hosted by the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) at Casino. DPI Senior Regulatory Inspector Anne Webster said all beekeepers, amateur and commercial, are encouraged to attend this important information session on pests and diseases and best management practices. “The meeting will also address registration issues and the legal requirements for beekeeping, and will provide the opportunity for people to ask questions directly to DPI Regulatory Specialist and apiary inspectors about their beekeeping operation,” Ms Webster said. “Discussions will cover American foulbrood disease, which is the most serious brood disease of honey bees, found in all states in Australia. “American foulbrood disease is a notifiable disease under the NSW Apiaries Act 1985. “There is a persistent low level of infection in NSW, with early and accurate diagnosis of this disease essential for effective control. “After the formal session beekeepers are welcome to inspect some hives and observe best practice brood inspection for disease and how to sample hives for disease diagnosis.” The information session will be held at the Greenridge Hall on the Casino Coraki Rd, Casino on Tuesday 13 October 2015 starting at 9.30am. Participants are asked to bring their own lunch. Beekeepers attending the practical component of the information day should wear appropriate clothing and a veil. Information is available from Anne Webster, Senior Inspector Regulatory, Coffs Harbour on 6650 3111. Detailed information on pests and diseases of honey bees is available on the DPI web site http://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/agriculture/livestock/honey-bees/pests-diseases