When the Birds Head South It’s Time to Learn about the Bees

Bee on zinnia.
Bee on zinnia. Click image for a high resolution version.

EVERETT, Wash. — Starting this October Washington State University Snohomish County Extension and Beez Neez Apiary Supply will team up to sponsor an apprentice level course in the Master Beekeeper Program. The five-week course provides a thorough introduction to beekeeping for novice beekeepers as well as a comprehensive refresher course for experienced apiculturists.

The course will be held Wednesday evenings, Oct. 23 through Nov. 20, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the University Center at Everett Station, 3201 Smith Ave. in Everett.

Designed to build basic beekeeping skills, topics to be covered will include bee biology, equipment, seasonal management requirements, identification and management of pests, as well as honey removal and processing. The overall focus will hone in on the unique challenges and benefits to beekeeping in the Pacific Northwest.

A workshop manual will complement the lectures. Participants completing the course and passing the Washington State Apprentice Beekeeper level exam (an open book test) will receive a certificate towards the Journey and Master Beekeeper levels of training.

The course will be taught by local beekeeping professionals, WSU Snohomish County Extension entomologist Dave Pehling, and Jim Tunnell, owner of Beez Neez Apiary in Snohomish.

Class size is limited so apply early to reserve a spot. Cost for the five-week course is $50 per person. To register contact Karie Christensen at (425) 338-2400 or by email at klchristen@wsu.edu . You can also download the registration form at www.snohomish.wsu.edu/ag/workshops/registrationform.pdf and mail it with your check.

For more information on the course contact Dave Pehling at pehling@wsu.edu or at 425/357-6019.

-30-