The course is for experienced and novice keepers.
RUMFORD – Keeping bees in Maine is a challenge.
“That’s why we have this course,” said bee hobbyist Carol Cottrill.
Veteran and prospective beekeepers alike came to take the 14-week course, offered by the Western Maine Beekeepers Association. About two dozen attended the first class Wednesday, held at Mountain Valley High School.
They came to learn more about starting a hive, keeping healthy bees and harvesting honey.
An enthusiastic Cottrill gave the class an overview of the investment, rewards and risks for Mainers who decide to raise bees as a hobby or a business.
Cottrill said that rain and cold weather can affect the health and performance of bee hives. Bees do not like to leave their home in either, and – if the temperature stays below 54 degrees for too long – they can become ill.
Cottrill is one of several experienced in beekeeping who will come to the high school every Wednesday over the next few months. Each week the course will focus on a different aspect, and veteran beekeepers will share their knowledge. Topics in upcoming classes will include bee biology, honey harvesting and preparing for winter.
There is no class for avoiding bee stings, however. As one experienced beekeeper attending the class put it, “the only time you’re going to get stung is if you don’t follow the rules.”
For those who do follow the rules, the reward is sweet. According to a short video called “Introduction to Beekeeping,” each hive requires very little work and can produce more than 200 pounds of honey per season.
Cottrill agreed that a successful hive does not take much effort on the keeper’s part. “I have two,” she said. “I check them once a week, and it might take me an hour, sometimes around 20 minutes.”
The video also described the costs of associated with beekeeping. It takes about $150 to set up a complete, permanent hive, and a one-time cost of about $60 for safety and handling equipment.
The course itself costs $25 for dues and texts and will be held every Wednesday between now and the end of April.
Classes will run from 7 p.m. to around 8 p.m., followed by a half-hour question-and-answer period.
Registration for the course continues. For more information, phone 364-0917.
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