Beginner Beekeeping

*All registrations must be completed by March 4 so we have time to order supplies – don’t delay!

During the course of this three-day class, you will build a complete Langstroth beehive and learn the basics of keeping honeybees in Northern Minnesota, so that you are ready to put some bees in your new beehive later this spring! You will learn what it takes (cost, time, etc…) to keep your bees healthy and happy, and a little bit of honeybee biology and basic beekeeping skills (hive placement, what to look for during an inspection, etc…).

Each session will include a presentation to deliver important information about getting started with honeybees, and then you will have time to assemble your own hive bodies and frames, and to paint your hive. There will be honeys to taste and examples of other hive products, along with hive equipment, tools, and personal protection options for demonstration.

Registration Includes…

You will leave with a complete, bee-ready Langstroth beehive, including a bottom board, deep hive body, inner cover, telescoping cover, and ten frames with foundation.

You will also leave with knowledge of what it will take (cost, time commitment) to keep bees year-round and how to get started, including purchasing bees and choosing a hive location.

Finally, you will have joined a network of beekeepers, including the instructor, where you can ask questions and compare notes through your start as a new beekeeper.

You should bring…

• Leather work gloves
• Clothing you don’t mind getting dirty
• Close-toed shoes/boots
• Hammer*
• Carpenter’s square*
• (2) 24” bar clamps*
• Preferred exterior paint or stain you would like on your hive (avoid very dark colors)

*Note: these tools are available for use at the folk school, if you are unable to bring your own

Skill Level…

No experience necessary

Best for Ages…

18 and older

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