Master Beekeeper Course Starts in Springfield July 16

SPRINGFIELD — University of Missouri Extension’s newly developed Certified Master Beekeeper program will debut from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday, July 16, at the Springfield Botanical Center, 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, Mo. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m.

“Basic Beekeeping for Beginners” will focus on the principles of beekeeping. Those principles include the history of beekeeping, honeybee biology, plant and pollinator relationship, and essential equipment and requirements.

“We are excited to bring the Master Beekeeper program to Southwest Missouri,” said David Burton, county program director for Greene County Extension. “This high-quality program will offer both classroom instruction and mentoring opportunities for participants.”

The Missouri Master Beekeeper certification program consists of six levels: Beginner Beekeeper, Apprentice Beekeeper, Journeyman Beekeeper, Junior Master Beekeeper, Master Trainer, and Master Beekeeper. By the end of this first course, individuals will be able to help experienced beekeepers in the management of hives.

Individuals must have one year of experience rearing bees and join a local beekeeping club before taking an exam to move up to the next level. Experienced beekeepers can test up through the first two levels of the program if they have three or more years of experience.

The “Basic Beekeeping for Beginners” class is for any individual interested in learning beekeeping. There is no minimum age for the program, although children age 12 and younger may find examination questions difficult.

The course costs $61 which includes a beekeeping book. Classes are taught by experienced local beekeepers. Payment must be made by July 14 and can be made by check or cash to Greene County Extension, 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, Mo. 65807

Registration can be done online at http://extension. missouri.edu/greene or by calling Greene County Extension at (417) 881-8909.