Interested in learning how to keep honey bees in South Carolina? 

Perhaps you have already started but have questions?

The Clemson Apiculture and Pollinator Program will offer a hybrid training course for entry level beekeepers this fall. This hybrid course combines six live online classes with in-person field days to give participants an opportunity to learn basic beekeeping skills and get hands-on training in a bee yard. Attend the evening lectures from the comfort of your home through our virtual meeting platform. The lectures will be taught 'live" by our program coordinator, Ben Powell, and will include plenty of opportunity for interaction and questions. The field days will occur at several locations around the state to make it convenient for participants to attend. Participants are encouraged to attend the field day closest to them.

Lecture Topics

1.Honey Bee Biology 

2.Beekeeping Equipment

3.Hive Management

4.Pests and Diseases 

5.Honey and Other Hive Products

6.Review: The Beekeeper’s Year 

Field Day Activities

-Assembling Hives

-Installing Bees

-Assessing Colony Health

-Controlling Pests

-Collecting Disease Samples

Splitting and Moving Hives

Participants will receive the presentation notes, the training text (Storey’s Guide to Keeping Bees, 2nd Edition), training materials, lunch at the field day, and other fun giveaways.

Beekeepers are encouraged to bring their own beekeeping gear to the field days, but jackets, gloves, veils, and smokers will be provided if needed. Participants who suffer from food allergies should contact the training coordinator before attending the field day.