Coweta Beekeepers one-day intro to beekeeping course in January
Aspiring and experienced beekeepers are invited to join the One-Day Introduction to Beekeeping Course, also known as the Beekeeping Short Course, hosted by the Coweta Beekeeper Association.
The event will occur on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025, at the UGA Coweta County Extension Center at 255 Pine Rd., Newnan. The course runs from 8 a.m. to approximately 4 p.m. Registration opens on Nov. 1.
Led by Master Beekeeper Bobby Torbush, the course aims to guide new beekeepers through their first year of beekeeping, covering essential topics like colony preparation, hive management and winter preparation.
It also serves as a valuable refresher for those seeking to build confidence in working with their bees. Participants will have the chance to meet members of the Coweta Beekeeper Association and engage in Q&A sessions throughout the day.
The course fee includes breakfast, snacks and lunch, as well as a variety of resources for attendees. Early registration costs $60 per person, with an additional fee of $15 for each extra family member. Day-of registration will be $65 per person.
All participants receive a complimentary 2025 CBA membership, a copy of the book First Lessons in Beekeeping and one club T-shirt per family membership. Additional T-shirts will be available for purchase.
The course will cover a wide range of topics, including:
Honeybee anatomy and colony structure
Beekeeper slang and the waggle dance
Tools, equipment, and hive assembly
Setting up the apiary and installing bees
Hive management and inspections
A year in the hive and nectar sources
Problems, diseases and troubleshooting
Collecting and bottling honey
Smoker and equipment demonstrations
For more information or to register, visit the Coweta Beekeeper Association’s website or contact the UGA Coweta County Extension Center. This hands-on course is an ideal opportunity to gain practical knowledge and connect with fellow beekeeping enthusiasts in the community.