Intro to Backyard Beekeeping Workshop & Apiary Tour

Introduction to Backyard Beekeeping – What the true beginner beekeeper needs to know to get started! Focus on urban, backyard beekeeping. Workshop in partnership with the Center for Land-Based Learning.

Are you thinking about starting a backyard hive, curious about what’s involved with beekeeping or just want to learn more about bees? Intro to Backyard Beekeeping is a great introductory class for you. The class is designed for absolute beginners so, no prerequisite knowledge is required. You can walk in knowing absolutely nothing about bees and walk out with practical knowledge ready to get started with your own backyard beehive.

Weather permitting we will also have an apiary tour and hive inspection demonstration and hands-on practice. Please wear appropriate clothing such as pants, closed-toe shoes/boots, socks, bring or wear a long sleeve shirt and leave off the perfumes or heavy scents. If you have your own beekeeping gear such as suit, gloves, veil/face protection bring it with you!

This class will focus on natural beekeeping practices in an urban setting, some DIY beekeeping ideas and skills to make sure you know all of your options to keep your bees healthy. Even if you have read a few books, taken some other classes or already started keeping bees, this interactive class will still have a lot to offer you. Topics covered will include:

• Basic bee biology
• Identifying and using beekeeping equipment
• Safe hive placement
• General maintenance and hive inspections
• How to discuss your new hobby with neighbors
• Processes and life cycles within the colony
• Diseases, pests, and treatments
• Troubleshooting and tips for beginner success
• Preparing hives for winter