Class information

Practical Beekeeping for Beginners

The “Virginia Beekeeping Teaching Consortium” program, offered in fifteen areas
in Virginia, will host eight two-hour weekly in-person classes starting January 16th ,
2025 at 7:00 pm in Woodstock. This is an exciting opportunity for new as well as
experienced beekeepers!

In addition to the eight sessions, the program offers three field experiences at the
Shenandoah County Beekeepers Club apiary located in the Seven Bends State
Park. Students will work side-by-side experienced beekeepers receiving hands-on
learning.

Led by EAS certified Master Beekeeper Brenda Kiessling as well as experienced
beekeepers Amy Hodge and Scott Currie, the sessions welcome anyone who is
interested in keeping honey bees, the great pollinators. Children (generally those
fifth grade and older) are encouraged but must be able to sit through the two hour
classes.

A curiosity about bees and keeping bees alive in Virginia is the primary
requirement to take the class. The class is aimed at those who want to keep bees,
though becoming a beekeeper is not necessary to participate. In addition, anyone
who has kept bees will find the class provides helpful information through subject
matter and class discussions.

Classes include information on purchasing equipment, obtaining honey bees,
honey bee colony biology, management and location of hives, and floral sources
appropriate for honey bees.

The cost of the class is $95 per family. Cost includes three (3) books, an electronic
copy of weekly lessons, reference materials, and a one-year family membership to
the local club. In addition, each Shenandoah County student will work with
an experienced mentor throughout the year.

Class Dates: Thursdays
January 16, 2025
January 23, 2025
January 30, 2025
No Class February 6, 2025
February 13, 2025
February 20, 2025
February 27, 2025
No Class March 6, 2025
March 13, 2025
March 20, 2025
Hands-on #1 Saturday, February 6th (2-4pm)
Hands-on #2 Saturday, March 6th (2-4pm)
Hands-on #3 Saturday, April 3rd (2-4pm)

For information contact:  Scott Currie, 540-325-5202
email at: sscurrie@yahoo.com
PLEASE NOTE: Register by January 15, 2025
Minimum: 4 
Maximum: 30 in-person enrollees/family units
Class offered subject to minimum enrollment requirements.
This in-person class meets at 1195 Hisey Ave, Woodstock.
This and all hands-on activities will comply with Covid-19 regulations.

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