SummaryColony characteristics and profitability were examined for 3 systems of honeybee management in the North Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada: (1) moving bees for pollination (current system), (2) honey production without pollination, and (3) package and nucleus production with and without pollination, A total of 60 colonies were used, divided equally into 6 management systems. Gross profit/colony was highest ($109 or $104)* for colonies used for pollination and from which a nucleus or package was removed. The lowest profit ($14.36) was for colonies managed solely for honey production. Measurements of colony weight, sealed worker brood area and surplus honey production indicated that management systems which involve the most intensive colony management for pollination, honey production and bee production do not detract from overall colony vigour and yield the best income, and also can provide a new source of income through the sale of packages and/or nuclei.