The provincial government says it's moving to help beekeepers rebuild their colonies and maintain the essential role honeybees play in the pollination of agricultural crops.

Due to harsh winter conditions this year and other pollinator health issues, the province's bee colonies are expected to experience higher than normal mortality rates.

To help offset these losses, Ontario is providing one-time financial assistance of $105 per hive.

The funds will go to beekeepers who have 10 or more hives and lose more than 40 per cent of their colonies between January 1st and October 31st.