Texas – Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller spoke at the 2025 Texas Beekeepers Association Annual Convention in Waco, emphasizing the importance of local beekeepers and honey producers to the state’s agricultural economy. The event is the premier gathering in Texas for the beekeeping community, showcasing producers and their work.
“Texas beekeepers are a vital part of our agricultural economy, but they’re also on the front lines of protecting the pollinators that keep our entire food system thriving,” Commissioner Miller said. “I’m proud to join this year’s convention and let our producers know that TDA stands with them, in the field, the market, and at the Capitol.”
Over the past decade, the Texas Department of Agriculture has awarded the Texas Beekeepers Association more than $300,000 through federal Specialty Crop Block Grant funds to support honey production and pollinator health. TDA will also soon provide $100,000 to Texas A&M AgriLife to establish a Texas Bee Testing Center, aimed at improving disease detection and protecting colonies.
Honey and honey-related products generated over $60,000 in sales at this year’s State Fair of Texas, highlighting growing consumer demand. According to Texas A&M AgriLife, Texas beekeepers produced more than 4 million pounds of honey this season, valued at nearly $9 million with an average market price of $2.24 per pound—the strongest output the state has seen in years.
Founded in 1880, the Texas Beekeepers Association serves as a professional organization promoting the bee-related industries across the state. The Annual Convention allows producers to learn about new innovations and connect with peers.
“Texas has a long and proud history of honey production and beekeeping,” Miller said, “but today’s beekeepers face challenges like disease, rising costs, and difficult weather. That is why TDA is committed to doing everything we can to support them.”
