Heritage & Harvest
50 Years of Pesticide-Free Heritage
By Oronde McNish | Edited by Verl Johnson
In 1976, long before "organic" became a global trend, Oronde McNish made a foundational commitment to the land at Rockbrook, St. Thomas. Driven by a vision of "Family Protection," he established a sanctuary in the foothills of the Blue and John Crow Mountains where chemicals and synthetic pesticides have no place.
For five decades, this pesticide-free approach has defined the Makabee Enterprise legacy. By choosing the difficult path of traditional, chemical-free beekeeping, Oronde has ensured that every drop of honey and every gram of beeswax maintains its raw, medicinal potency. This 50-year history of organic farming isn't just a record—it is a blueprint for the future of Jamaican agriculture.
As documented in 'Trees for Bees," book, co-authored by Daniela Williams and Oronde McNish, the health of the hive depends on the health of the forest. By protecting the flora of St. Thomas from chemical exposure, we protect the bees, and in turn, we protect the families who use our products.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does "Family Protected" mean?
It is our standard of purity. We ensure all products are free from pesticides and chemicals, making them safe for our family and yours.
2. Why is St. Thomas the ideal location for your hives?
The foothills of the Blue and John Crow Mountains offer a rich, diverse flora that allows for multi-floral, high-potency honey production.
3. Can I visit the Rockbrook apiary?
We primarily focus on our harvest and seedlings; however, you can learn about our methods through our book, "Trees for Bees," co-authored by Oronde McNish.
4. How do I buy Makabee products if they show "Sold Out"?
Ignore the "Sold Out" status on the website. To ensure fresh quality and local delivery in Jamaica, please message us directly on WhatsApp at 1-876-343-8753.