Registration open for hybrid beekeeping course

Beekeeping is crucial in United States agriculture and has become a popular hobby among many South Carolina residents.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Service has created a comprehensive training program to support new and aspiring beekeepers.

Ben Powell, coordinator of Clemson's Apiculture and Pollinator Program, is offering a Basics of Beekeeping Hybrid Course this fall. The course features six live lectures, held online from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from Sept. 17 to Oct. 3. In addition, participants can attend one of three in-person field days across the state. The program includes 12 hours of lecture, training materials, the training text Storey's Guide to Keeping Bees, 2nd Edition; lunch during the field days, and door prizes.

The cost of the program is $75. To register or for more information, visit this link. Registration closes on Sept. 13.

This hybrid course allows participants to learn beekeeping skills through online lectures and hands-on training in a bee yard. Powell will teach the online lectures, which include opportunities for interaction and questions.

Online lecture topics and dates are as follows:

• Honey Bee Biology - Sept. 17
• Beekeeping Equipment - Sept. 19
• Hive Management - Sept. 24
• Pests and Diseases - Sept. 26
• Honey and Other Hive Products - Oct. 1
• Review: The Beekeeper's Year - Oct. 3

Field days are scheduled for:

• Sept. 28 - Clemson, South Carolina
• Oct. 5 - Florence, South Carolina
• Oct. 12 - Charleston, South Carolina

These field days will be held at various locations to make attendance convenient and provide hands-on training with live bees. Activities include assembling hives, installing bees, assessing colony health, controlling pests, collecting disease samples, and splitting and moving hives.

Participants are encouraged to bring their beekeeping gear to the field days, but if needed, jackets, gloves, veils, and smokers will be provided. Before registering, those with food allergies should contact Ben Powell at [email protected] or (843) 503-2511.

Beekeeping is a vital activity that supports the economy and local ecosystems. Honeybees produce valuable products like honey and wax and contribute significantly to pollination, which is essential for many crops.

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