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Sampling for Nosema

Outcomes Learners will recognize the procedure for conducting a Nosema field test in a bee colony.   Key Takeaways    Nosema, a subtle fungal parasite, can affect bee colonies’ health without obvious signs. Sampling helps uncover its presence, enabling informed actions to protect bee vitality. Sampling for Nosema is an accessible process involving collecting bees, […]

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 […]

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 […]

Setting Goals for Queen Production

Outcomes Learners will be able to set effective goals for queen rearing and sustainable apiary management by considering crucial factors like environment, seasonal flows, colony strength, proximity to other hives, and apiary size.   Key Takeaways    Goal setting for queen rearing requires considering various factors, including the environment, seasonal flows, proximity to other hives, […]

Holistic Apiary Management With Bill Stagg

holistic management for queen and nuc production

Outcomes Learners will have knowledge about natural beekeeping, including the significance of observing bees, allowing swarming, providing natural nutrition, and timing colony splits for successful apiary management.   Key Takeaways  Beekeepers can learn valuable insights from observing and studying the behavior of bees in their natural environment. Allowing bees to swarm is crucial for the […]