Membership in the Co-op requires that you are interested in learning as much as possible about keeping bees. Usually one year of beekeeping experience is best. If you are just starting out in beekeeping, we recommend that you first take an introductory beekeeping class. Classes are frequently offered through your County Extension Offices, Continuing Education programs or from local Beekeeping Organizations. In addition to taking a class, we suggest that you try to work with and/or observe an experienced beekeeper to guide or instruct you during your first season.
There are many excellent books on beekeeping. One that has proven to be most helpful to beginners as well as experienced beekeepers, is The Beekeeper’s Handbook, Fourth Edition, by Alphonse Avitabile and Diana Sammataro.
Taking a regular beekeeping class as well as studying the suggested texts and acquiring the necessary standard Langstroth type equipment beforehand may be sufficient to qualify for Co-op membership. Such applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis, and with majority approval of MHBC members.
Co-op sponsors or mentors are available to help those without extensive beekeeping experience and who are interested in joining after their initial year. It is usually the responsibility of the new applicant to request this assistance from an established member.
Annual MHBC dues (to maintain records and office expenses) are thirty ($30.00) dollars per year.
Call us: (303) 702-0085, leave a message and we will return your call.