Saving the Bees: Fort Valley Beekeepers Combat Climate Change and Mite Infestations
Every morning, Kathy Tumblin dons her protective beekeeping suit and steps into her backyard apiary, where she and her husband Larry care for their honeybee colonies. As the owners of Chalybeate Springs Apiary, the Tumblins are on a mission to support the health and sustainability of local bee populations in the Shenandoah Valley.
Their journey into beekeeping began over five years ago, sparked by a local class offered through the Shenandoah County Beekeepers. What started with two hives has grown into a thriving operation, boasting up to 30 hives in their most productive years. The Tumblins now focus on producing bees that are well-suited to local conditions, ensuring that these vital pollinators can continue to thrive despite the challenges posed by climate change and invasive species.
Climate Challenges and Adaptation
One of the significant hurdles the Tumblins face is the impact of climate change. Unpredictable weather patterns, such as early warm spells followed by sudden freezes, have caused difficulties for their colonies. These conditions can trick queen bees into laying eggs prematurely, resulting in a lack of sufficient bees to keep the brood warm when temperatures drop again.
Battling the Varroa Mite
In addition to climate challenges, the Tumblins must also contend with the varroa mite, a parasitic pest that has become one of the most severe threats to honeybees worldwide. Originally from Asia, these mites have adapted to various bee species and have spread to European honeybees, which are prevalent in the United States.
Larry Tumblin notes that combating the varroa mite is complex. While some bees are genetically inclined to groom each other and remove the mites, widespread solutions are still under research. Universities and beekeeping associations are studying varroa-sensitive hygiene and other genetic traits to develop bee strains that can naturally resist these pests.
Organic Practices and Community Support
The Tumblins are committed to maintaining their apiary as organically as possible, avoiding pesticides and minimizing the use of external chemicals. Their honey, a product of careful and natural beekeeping practices, is a testament to their dedication.
The couple's efforts extend beyond their apiary. They actively share their knowledge with the community, encouraging others to learn about and support beekeeping. Their apiary serves as a resource for local beekeepers, providing healthy bees to help sustain the regional bee population.
Looking Ahead
As the Tumblins continue to adapt and innovate in their beekeeping practices, they remain hopeful about the future. They are preparing to play a pivotal role in the upcoming International Apicultural Congress in 2027, where they will showcase their work and contribute to global discussions on beekeeping and sustainability.
Conclusion
Kathy and Larry Tumblin's dedication to beekeeping exemplifies the crucial role that individuals and small businesses play in environmental conservation. By addressing the challenges of climate change and invasive species, they are not only protecting their bees but also contributing to the health of our ecosystems.
- #SaveTheBees
- #SustainableBeekeeping
- #ClimateChangeAction
- #OrganicFarming
- #PollinatorProtection
