Free Beginner Beekeeping Program Offered By UT Extension Office In Jefferson County, February 12 & 13, 2018

Most people realize that beekeeping is important to worldwide agricultural production, because bees pollinate fruits and vegetables valued in billions of dollars. Without the honeybee, our food supply could be in serious jeopardy. The economic value of honey, wax and other hive products is continually increasing as we find new uses for bee-related products. People of all kinds can keep bees almost anywhere. When asked why they become beekeepers, people’s responses are variable, including: “to pollinate my garden,” “to make honey to sell,” “to teach my children something useful,” “to put honey on my biscuits,” “as therapy,” to understand “what makes bees tick,” because they thought it would be “fun” and “because I just like foolin’ with ‘em.”

The UT Extension Office in Jefferson County will be offering a free beginner beekeeping program February 12 and 13 from 9am to noon. There is no charge for the program and is expected to fill up quick, so please call and get your name on the list fast. You do not want to miss out! An elementary series where the topics covered are for beginning beekeepers and those simply interested in learning more about honeybees. Please call 865-397-2969 to RSVP. The office is located at 1111 Lake Drive in Dandridge. Programs in agriculture and natural resources, 4-H youth development, family and consumer sciences and resource development. University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture U.S. Department of Agriculture and county governments cooperating. UT Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment.