Beekeeping 101 class to be offered on Saturday

Beekeeping 101 class to be offered on Saturday

AMBER TOWNSHIP — Scottville Beekeepers of Mason County will host Introduction to Beekeeping 101 on Saturday, March 25 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Mason County Reformed Church, 45 S. Amber Rd. The one-day intensive program provides a basic foundation for anyone interested in beekeeping. It brings together the wisdom of seasoned beekeepers as well as “newbees” just getting started and even those still in the phase of considering. The cost of the class is $5 (cash only) plus a non-perishable food donation. 

During the morning portion of the course, participants will have the opportunity to learn firsthand from a cross-section of Mason County’s most experienced beekeepers including Ed Malkowski, Mason County’s own “Patron Saint of Bees”. The use of exceptional visuals will bring to life the mysteries of the hive, sharing the life of the queen, the workers, as well as the few in number but indispensable drones.

Hands-on activities are planned for the afternoon sessions. The overview will cover current best practices in beekeeping including bee biology, installation, safe handling, maintaining a hive, pollination and what to expect to see in the hive as the season evolves. Mason County Bee Supplies will have equipment on site for demonstration and sale.

The goal of the club is to provide a foundation for success for anyone interested in exploring the fascinating world of beekeeping. After attending the one-day intensive, there will be a basic understanding of what’s involved, along with knowledge of the terminology . Through the club, beginners are assigned a seasoned mentor to assist with unknowns, developing awareness and skills over the course of a season. Field trips to members’ apiaries will provide hands-on, real-time learning and experience.

Scottville Beekeepers meet on the third Thursday of each month at Scottville United Methodist Church,                         114 W. State Street in Scottville from 6:30 – 8:30 pm. Meetings are free.

Further information can be found at www.scottvillebeekeepers.org or on Facebook. For more information or to RSVP, contact Lenny at 773-320-8828 or ifneedbee10@gmail.com .