LOUDOUN BEEKEEPERS ASSOCIATION
  2014 Beekeeping Class Schedule

Note: Pre-registration via email is highly recommended to reserve a space for the class. There has been a significant demand for the classes so early reservations can be sent to and then will be confirmed as we get closer to the class date.
Loudoun Beekeepers Association will be offering its Beginning Beekeepers Class again this winter. This class is an important outreach program designed to get more people interested in hobby beekeeping. If you have friends who have expressed an interest in beekeeping, please pass on the information below. The Loudoun Open House and Classes will be held at the VA Cooperative Extension Service, 30B Catoctin Circle, Leesburg. Directions
The Loudoun Beginning Beekeeping Classes are open to adults and children (age 9 and over) who are interested in keeping bees as well as those who are just interested in learning about honeybees. Class size is limited so please register early. The classes are given over a seven week period covering all aspects of beekeeping such as the equipment you need to start beekeeping, the development of your colony and your responsibilities in subsequent years. The classes are offered twice a week to accommodate different schedules. You can attend class either Friday evenings from 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm or Saturday mornings from 8:00 am - 10:00 am. See Inclement Weather Policy.
The cost of the class is approximately $85.00 per family (final price subject to change in prices of class books and materials) and includes Beekeeper's Handbook, Beekeeping Basics, and Honey Bee Maladies and a one year membership in Loudoun Beekeepers Association (LBA) and Virginia State Beekeepers Association (VSBA). All beekeeping equipment, supplies and bees must be purchased separately. You can expect to pay between $250-$500 for each hive depending on your own preferences. In addition, you can expect to pay $50-$200 per beekeeper for tools and personal protective gear. For more information on equipment, you can visit several websites listed in our Misc Links section of this website. Please email to reserve a spot or for more information.
Open House - The Loudoun Beekeepers Association will hold an informal open reception in January. Anyone interested in attending the beekeeping classes are encouraged to attend to complete your registration for the classes. Examples of beekeeping equipment will be on display. Club members will be available to answer your questions. Beekeeping is an interesting hobby for both individuals and families. All members are invited and encouraged to attend. Your enthusiasm for beekeeping is certain to encourage prospective beekeepers.
Class Schedule:
Week Date Class
1 tbd   Introduction to Beekeeping
2 tbd   Beekeeping Equipment
3 tbd   Dynamics of the Colony
4 tbd   Diseases, Parasites, Pests and Predators
5 tbd   First Year Beekeeping
6 tbd   Second Year Beekeeping
7 tbd   Floral Sources and Sustainable Beekeeping
8 tbd   Final Class

Field Day(s) Date, Time and Place:  to be announced
We attempt to have this to coincide with the arrival of the Bees from Georgia

Note: Mentor Field Day(s) to be arranged by the Instructors/Mentors as weather and schedules permit


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