Experienced beekeepers who want to increase their understanding of bees and improve their practices are the intended targets of this two-day training. The training has been utilized by other beekeepers as a “booster shot” to update what they learned in beginner bee schools and to assist in preparing for journeyman-level certification exams.
During live and pre-taped videos from the Beekeeper Education & Engagement System, David Tarpy, professor of entomology at NC State and apiculturist, other members of the NC State Apiculture Program and county extension specialist who will serve as instructors will explore topics such as:
Honey bee anatomy.
Division of labor and bee behavior.
Queens, drones and mating.
Diseases, parasites and disorders.
Varroa Integrated Pest Management.
Advanced management techniques.
Effects of pesticides.
Honey and other hive products.
The second day of the training will include hands-on demonstrations and practice on sampling hives for mites, mite treatments, native bee identification, pollen patty making and honey bee pheromones.
The registration fee includes lunches, handbooks and T-shirts.