Those interested in beekeeping have a new learning opportunity.
The Center for Rural Affairs and University of Nebraska-Lincoln are partnering to offer Great Plains Master Beekeeping, a regional beekeeper training and certification program.
The program’s purpose is to increase the amount of well-educated beekeepers, to provide new and experienced beekeepers with resources to continue their education, and to help others become advocates for bees.
“We have received a lot of feedback on creating a program to expand beekeeper knowledge, because there is such an influx of interest in bees and beekeeping,” said Sheldon Brummel, Master Beekeeping Project coordinator.
Great Plains Master Beekeeping is set up in four tiers—Exploratory, Apprentice, Journeyman, and Master. Participants may advanced to higher levels at their own pace to refine their knowledge and management skills.
The Center for Rural Affairs is leading Exploratory Beekeeping classes, with four this summer: in Macy, Schuyler, Grand Island, and Crete. Three sessions will be in English and translated into Spanish.
“These classes are a chance for people to see what is needed for beekeeping, with hands-on opportunities,” said Kirstin Bailey, Center for Rural Affairs project associate. “There will also be information on what you can do to help bees and other pollinators if you do not want to become a beekeeper.”
To participate in the program, contact unlbeelab@unl.edu or 402.472.8378, or visit gpmb.unl.edu. For more information or to RSVP to Exploratory Beekeeping classes, visit cfra.org/events or contact Bailey at 402.870.2390 or kirstinb@cfra.org.
