Decades-Old Ordinance Bans Beekeeping In New Bedford

A local man says he would like to see beehives and beekeeping in New Bedford.

There's one problem though....a 1976 ordinance bans the practice in the Whaling City.

Ecotoxicologist Dr. Michael Patnaude says he wants to see the City Council take steps to either repeal or revise the ordinance.

Patnaude tells WBSM's Taylor Cormier, more and more people are embracing beehives and all that comes with it.

Patnaude says many communities are now allowing beehives with restrictions that would require education or certification for the would-be beekeepers.

The City Council last week sent the matter on to the Appointments and Briefings Committee for a hearing.