Over the last few years, there has been a strong interest in honey bees and backyard beekeeping. So much so that in 2014, Tallapoosa County Extension hosted a Beginner Beekeeping Course. Surprisingly, over 70 people from all across the area participated in the first course. Soon after, the local Tallapoosa River Beekeepers Association was revitalized. Such success lead to another event in 2015 which resulted in over 50 folks attending the course. Beekeeping classes were offered again in 2017 and 2018 to train new prospects and future beekeepers. Beekeeping is in high demand.
Another Beginner Beekeeping Course is being planned and will be offered in January 2019. This educational opportunity will again be hosted by Tallapoosa County Extension and taught by members of the Tallapoosa River Beekeepers Association. The course will begin January 17, 2019 and be held on Thursday evenings from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Classes will be held on Thursdays – from January 17th through February 21st. All two hour classes will be held in Dadeville; facility location to be determined.
During the six classes, participants will gain basic knowledge to begin keeping bees, acquire and assemble the necessary equipment for the bees, and have the opportunity to obtain bees to go in the equipment.
Class topics include:
- Introduction to Beekeeping, Honey Bee Biology
- Diseases and Pests
- Installing Bees and Hive Management
- 2nd Year Management, Products of the Hive
- Hive Construction, Using Equipment
- Plants and Review
Cost of the Course is $45, and includes one book.
Our hope is the Beginner Beekeeping Course will increase the interest and importance of beekeeping with both youth and adults. If you would like to become a beekeeper or have any questions, please contact the Tallapoosa County Extension office at 256-825-1050 or mail in the Registration Flyer.