Economic contribution of the beekeeping activity in producers of the dry forest of the province of Santa Elena

Abstract

Beekeeping in Ecuador has great potential for growth and development due to the social, environmental and economic importance it represents. This study was proposed to characterize the beekeeping activity and its economic contribution in the rural area of the Santa Elena Peninsula. A cross-sectional, non-experimental investigation was carried out. Surveys were applied to 150 beekeepers individually and collectively. The study variables were sociocultural characteristics, hives, harvested honey, products generated, income, expenses, profits, sources of financing, problems identified, type of economic activity, and marketing chain. It was observed that beekeepers are organized, receive benefits from the "Agromiesperan" association; prevailing the masculine sex over the feminine one, the age superior to 46 years and the primary educational level. 584 hives were registered in operation, 82.0% of the beekeepers managed between 1 to 5 hives; a significant number of them, 81.3%, do not apply any added value and are limited to producing honey. Problems with drought, insufficient flowering and pests have a negative influence on honey production. Economic activity significantly influences the income, costs and profits of beekeepers; those who develop it as a primary occupation manage more hives and higher honey production, generating more profits, followed by those who carry it out secondarily and finally those who carry it out alternatively. Beekeepers take advantage of different marketing channels, but the management of direct sales to the consumer.