Discover the buzz: Missouri State Beekeepers Association Fall Conference
As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, the Missouri State Beekeepers Association (MSBA) invites you to dive into the fascinating world of honeybees at their Fall Conference on Oct. 26. Held at the Family Life Center of the First Baptist Church of Arnold, this event promises to be a hive of activity for both novice and experienced beekeepers.
Why honeybees matter
Honeybees are more than just producers of honey; they are vital pollinators for many of the crops we rely on. In fact, honeybees pollinate an estimated one-third of all the food crops we consume. Their role in our ecosystem is crucial, making the decline in bee populations a significant concern. Events like the MSBA Fall Conference are essential for educating and equipping beekeepers to support these indispensable insects.
Why now is the perfect time to start beekeeping
Late fall and early winter are ideal times to begin preparing for beekeeping. This period allows ample time to attend training, purchase necessary equipment, and be ready for the arrival of bees in late spring. Starting early ensures you won’t miss out on essential supplies, as many vendors sell out quickly.
Event highlights
The keynote speaker will be Dr. Larry Connor, a celebrated author and owner of WicWas Press. Connor will share his extensive knowledge on beekeeping. His insights are sure to inspire and inform attendees.
Featured speakers will include Theresa Martin, author of “Dead Bees Don’t Make Honey,” who will discuss strategies for keeping bees healthy and ensuring their survival through the winter, and Sheldon and Courtney Brummel from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Bee Lab, who will present their research on hygienic behavior in bees and compare winter survivability in different hive types.
Educational tracks
The conference will feature six simultaneous tracks of classes, covering a wide range of topics such as:
• Methods for improving winter survival
• Value-added hive products
• Planning for pollinators: USDA financial assistance
• Treatment for bee stings and emergencies
• Survival comparisons between different hive types
• Medicinal uses for honey and other hive products
Additionally, there will be an all-day Beginner Track for those new to beekeeping, offering tailored classes to help them get started.
Vendor hall
Attendees can explore the latest in beekeeping technology and products in the vendor hall. This is an excellent opportunity to stock up on supplies and learn about new innovations in the field.
Join us
Don’t miss this chance to learn from experts, connect with fellow beekeepers, and delve into the captivating world of honeybees. The MSBA Fall Conference is the perfect opportunity to gain the knowledge and tools needed to support these vital pollinators.
For more information and to register, visit MSBA’s official website at www.mobees.org.
