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    • Essential Guide for New Beekeepers: What You Need to Know

    Introduction

    Beekeeping is a rewarding hobby that not only connects you with nature but also contributes to the environment. However, before diving in, it’s crucial to assess if it’s the right fit for you. This guide will provide essential insights for new beekeepers, covering everything from assessing your suitability to purchasing bees and acquiring the necessary equipment.

    1. Is Beekeeping Right for Me?

    Before starting your beekeeping journey, consider the following factors:

    • Time Commitment: Beekeeping requires regular attention throughout the seasons. Are you prepared to dedicate time for inspections, maintenance, and harvesting?
    • Interest in Learning: Beekeeping is a science and an art. A genuine interest in learning about bee biology, behavior, and ecology is essential.
    • Physical Ability: While beekeeping can be physically demanding, it’s manageable for most. Consider your comfort level with outdoor work and occasional lifting.
    • Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local laws regarding beekeeping. Some areas have restrictions or require registration.
    1. How to Purchase Bees

    When you're ready to get started, purchasing bees is the next step. You will need to pre-order your bees before Spring. We start taking pre-orders at the beginning of December. Here are a few options for purchasing bees:

    • Package Bees: A common choice for beginners, package bees come in a screened box containing a queen and several thousand worker bees. They are usually available in Spring, end of April.
    • Nuc (Nucleus Colony): A nuc includes a small, established colony with a queen, workers, and brood. This is often a better option for beginners as it provides a head start. NUCs are usually ready in the Spring, mid May.
    • Local Beekeepers: Consider sourcing bees from local beekeepers or associations. This ensures you get bees that are well-adapted to your region.
    1. What Is the Basic Equipment Needed?

    Having the right equipment is vital for successful beekeeping. Here’s a list of essentials:

    • Beehive: The most common type is the Langstroth hive. Decide how many hives you want to begin with; we recommend a minimum of two. Make sure to familiarize yourself with its components: supers, frames, and foundation. You will need one hive per colony of bees: 1 Bottom Board w/entrance reducer, 2 deep brood boxes with frames, 1 medium box with frames, 1 inner cover, 1 telescoping lid, hive stand
    • Protective Gear: Invest in a bee suit, gloves, and a veil to protect yourself during inspections.
    • Smoker: This tool calms the bees, making it easier to work with them.
    • Hive Tool: A versatile tool for prying apart hive components and scraping off wax or propolis.
    • Bee Brush: Helps gently move bees away from frames during inspections.
    • Internal Feeder, pollen patty/syrup supplements
    • Mite treatment
    1. How to Learn About Beekeeping

    Knowledge is power in beekeeping. Here are some resources to help you become a skilled beekeeper:

    • In Person Classes: Consider taking our "Brass Tacks" beekeeping course. This is a 9 hour, in-person class conducted over a weekend. 4.5 hours Saturday afternoon and 4.5 hours Sunday afternoon. This course will cover all the necessary information that you need for for your first year of keeping bees in Colorado.
    • Books and Guides: Start with foundational texts that cover bee biology and hive management.
    • Online Courses: Many organizations offer comprehensive online courses tailored for beginners.
    • Local Beekeeping Clubs: Joining a club can provide invaluable hands-on experience and mentorship from seasoned beekeepers.
    • Workshops and Field Days: Participate in workshops and local events to learn directly from experts.
    1. Before your bees arrive
    • Set up your hives in your apiary.
    • Prepare your feeding syrup and pollen patties.  Load your smoker with fuel.
    • Re-watch installation videos on nucs or package bees.
    1. Installing your bees
    • Install your bees into your hive with a full feeder and spring pollen patties. If you bought a package, hang your queen on a middle frame for 3 days.
    • If you bought a package, release your queen after 3 days.
    • Give your bees a week or two to settle in and then treat for mites.
    • Keep the syrup feeder full…check every few days and top off the syrup or replace with fresh. DO NOT LET THEM RUN OUT!
    • Every 10 to 14 days, do a hive inspection for fresh eggs, larvae, and new comb.

    Conclusion

    Beekeeping can be an enriching and fulfilling endeavor, but it’s important to approach it with preparation and respect for the bees. By understanding if it’s the right fit for you, how to acquire your bees, what equipment you’ll need, and where to find reliable resources, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful beekeeper. Happy beekeeping!