MEXICO — The Western Maine Beekeeper’s Association will hold their annual Beekeeping School starting Wednesday, Jan. 18, at Region 9 School. Eleven weekly classes are scheduled on Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8:45 p.m. The sessions are taught by area beekeepers, so the information is both practical and relevant to the climate in Western Maine.

Class subjects include acquiring honey bees, setting up hives, harvesting honey, disease prevention and hive management for each season. Students have the support of club members as they gain hands-on experience with their honey bees. Throughout the summer club members hold Open Hive Meetings to demonstrate the application of the information that was presented in class.

There are different “breeds” of bees, and local hobbyists urge new beekeepers to pick those that are known for their docile behavior. Proper handling of the honey bee colony will minimize the possibility of being stung, and new keepers are taught the proper techniques to use when working with their hives.

Registration will be held Wednesday, Jan. 18, at 6 p.m. in the cafeteria of Region 9 School. The cost is $40 which includes the classes, books, handouts and one year membership in the Western Maine Beekeepers Association. Anyone interested in learning more about the Bee School, or the club, can contact Carol Cottrill at 364-0917 or [email protected], or Nick Kelley at 364-4121.