Seasonal Indicators for Beekeeping

Outcomes Learners will be able to identify key seasonal indicators in beekeeping, including flow, temperature, and climate.   Key Takeaways    Flow signifies the period when nature provides abundant food for bees; it varies by region and year. Recognizing local flora indicators of flow helps plan hive activities. Temperature plays a crucial role, affecting tasks […]

Beekeeping Regulations

Outcomes Learners will have a comprehensive understanding of the essential steps to navigate beekeeping regulations   Key Takeaways    Understanding Beekeeping Regulations: Beekeeping comes with responsibilities and varying regulations, whether you’re in urban or rural areas. Provincial and state apiculture offices oversee key regulations, including bee and equipment registration. Municipal regulations can impose hive placement […]

How to Install a Nucleus Colony

Outcomes Learners will acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to confidently install a nucleus colony.   Key Takeaways    Smart Purchasing: When buying a nucleus colony, ensure you ask the apiary for proof of inspection by a provincial inspector. Verify the age of the combs to avoid purchasing colonies with old and unhealthy comb structures. […]

Flower Power: Land Reclamation with Bees in Mind

Outcomes Learners will be able to understand the critical role of pollinator habitats, including the significance of pollen and nectar for bee health and colony sustainability.   Key Takeaways    Importance of pollen: Pollen, unique to each flower, not only serves as a source of nutrition but also contributes to the honeybee immune system, fostering […]

How to Spot a Queen

Outcomes Learners will develop strategies to spot a queen bee within the beehive, no matter how packed with bees your colony is.   Key Takeaways  Queen Bee Appearance: The queen bee is the largest bee in the colony. She has an elongated, pointed abdomen, a shiny and hairless back, and lighter-colored legs. Tip #1 – […]

Oxalic Acid Sublimation

Outcomes Learners will gain the knowledge and skills to safely and effectively apply oxalic acid sublimation for varroa mite control in beekeeping.   Key Takeaways    Effective Varroa Mite Control: Discover how the innovative use of an oxalic acid sublimator wand provides a powerful method for addressing varroa mite infestations in beehives. Learn how this […]

How to Install a Bee Package

Outcomes Learners will be equipped with essential tips to confidently and effectively guide the process of installing a bee package.   Key Takeaways  Tip 1: Gather all hive equipment, including bottom board, frames, inner cover, lid, and entrance reducer. Tip 2: Elevate the beehive on a hive stand at least six centimeters off the ground […]

Gardening for Bees

Outcomes Learners will identify the  top 10 bee-friendly plants for the prairies and gain insights on how to attract and support pollinators in their gardens. https://youtu.be/tBixsmXnl0Q Click the link below to receive your free Garden Planning Guide. This work sheet will guide you through assessing the characteristics of your growing space, to help you take […]

Queen Rearing Equipment

Outcomes Learners will gain a comprehensive understanding of essential queen rearing equipment.    Key Takeaways    Learn how to use essential equipment, such as the Chinese Grafting Tool, designed to delicately scoop out larvae and royal jelly from cells for precise grafting into queen cups. This tool streamlines the process and increases the chances of […]

Performing a Survival Check

Outcomes Learners will understand how to conduct a survival inspection for beehives and implement effective spring feeding techniques to support the well-being and survival of bee colonies during the critical springtime period.   Key Takeaways  Survival inspections are vital health check-ups for beehives, allowing beekeepers to assess colony well-being and identify potential issues. Spring feeding […]