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Master Beekeeping Apprentice Level Course

Bee Part of the Solution!

Become a Master Beekeeper and help keep local pollinators thriving.

Research into the rapid worldwide decline of honey bees has finally yielded results. Recent studies indicate a 'perfect storm' conspired to decimate honeybee stocks. Data suggests Colony Collapse Disorder was the result of a recently evolved partnership between a virus that attacts bee DNA and a common hive fungus. Now, scientists can start developing a treatment regimen that enables bees to resist this virulant attack.

To help rebuild our resource of local pollinators, Washington State University Snohomish County Extension and Beez Neez Apiary Supply are teaming up to sponsor the popular apprentice level course in the Master Beekeeper Program. The five-week course provides a thorough introduction to beekeeping for novice beekeepers as well as a comprehensive refresher course for experienced apiculturists.

Designed to build basic beekeeping skills, topics to be covered include bee biology, equipment, seasonal management requirements, identification, and management of pests, as well as honey removal and processing. The overall focus will hone in on the unique challenges and benefits to beekeeping in the Pacific Northwest.

A workshop manual complements the lectures. Participants completing the five-week course and passing the Washington State Apprentice Beekeeper level exam (an open book test) will receive a certificate towards the Journey and Master Beekeeper levels of training.

Each session will be taught by local beekeeping professionals, WSU Snohomish County Extension entomologist Dave Pehling, and Jim Tunnell, owner of Beez Neez Apiary in Snohomish.

The session starts Monday, Feb 24 and runs through March 24, 2014. Another session will be offered in Fall 2014. Class size is limited and always fills quickly.

Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination. Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office or to the WSU Center for Human Rights. A limited number of needs-based scholarships are available for some workshops. Persons with a disability requiring special accommodation can request accommodation 21 days before training at 425.338.2400. If accommodation is not requested in advance, we cannot guarantee availability on-site.