Beekeeping 101 Course The last few years there has been an increasing interest in beekeeping in the county and the state. The reasons for the increase in interest variessome are looking for an opportunity to make extra money from pollination contracts and honey sales, others are looking to get an ag use tax exemption, and many just want a few hives for a hobby. Whatever the reason, bees are not only vital to our environment, but also our food supply.
It is estimated that 30% of all the food consumed in the U.S. is produced from bee pollinated plants. Most fruit, nuts, and vegetable products would not be available if there were no bees to pollinate them. Bees are also important pollinators of legume forages like clovers, alfalfa, and vetch that are used for beef and milk production. The USDA estimates that $20 to $30 billion dollars in agriculture production depends on pollination by bees in the U. S.
To help support this interest the Comanche County Agrilife Extension office will be hosting a “Beekeeping 101” program. The program is designed for beginners and individuals interested in getting started with beekeeping. Topics will range from honeybee biology, equipment, getting started with bees, basic colony inspections and management, and other foundational topics. It will be an excellent opportunity to get a step ahead of the learning curve for beginners and should offer some additional insight for those that already have hives. Texas A&M Apiculture Specialist Omar Martinez will be the presenter for the program.
The program will be held on Friday November 6th from 10 AM until 3 PM at the Comanche Community Center. There is no charge for the program, and we ask you please RSVP by calling (325)-356-2539. This will be an excellent program for those with an interest in beekeeping and apiary management.