Additional Resources for your Beekeeping Journey

Thank you for coming to see me at the Brazos Valley Bee School! As promised,  below are a few resources, organized by class, intended to help you in your journey.

If you enjoyed our classes, please check our my book, “For the Bees: A Handbook for Happy Beekeeping”!

Buy the Book!

Looking for more hands on help? We were the first to offer an immersive beekeeping course in Texas, and we are currently in our 18th cohort (our 9th year!)  This beek apprenticeship program is only offered twice a year, is capped at 20, and most always sells out. The fall apprenticeship is underway, but  sign up to notified when the next cohort is available at the link below. The 18th cohort will open up in October. You can choose to take the live online classes, or add on the practical hands-on component which takes place  place at the Honey Ranch just east of Austin.

Learn More!
For the Bees Book Cover Page

Integrated Pest Management

        1. Honey Bee Health Coalition: Varroa Management Decision Tool. This is a great resource if after doing a mite check, you learn your colony has a high mite count.  Please keep in mind that the decision tool no longer includes options other than treatments, such a brood breaks, queen isolation cages, etc.  It is useful, however, if you want to use a chemical treatment.
        2. Here is a blog sharing different methods for checking the mite count in your hives. It also includes a video demonstrating the sugar shake method.
        3. The Texas Apiary Inspection Service has a very handy guide with info on different pests and disease that may affect your colony.
        4. Certified Naturally Grown once had a very helpful handbook for managing pests and diseases without chemical intervention, and though its no longer on their website I have a copy on my personal drive to share with you. 

The Business of Beekeeping

        1. You might be interested in listening to an interview I did a few weeks ago with the Beekeeping Today podcast.
        2. Several of you asked for info on the insurance agent I use. His name is Eddie Carter, and he is a beekeeper so he can speak your language!  Let him know Tara sent you! His email is Eddiec@cartersinsurance.com

Honey Bee Nutrition

        1. Here is a handout with recipes for 1/1 sugar water and pollen patties.