Santa Cruz Beekeepers Guild

If you've ever been interested in beekeeping but didn't know where to begin, this session is tailor-made for you. Our seasoned beekeeping expert will delve into crucial aspects, including beekeeping equipment, hive establishment, and sourcing bees for the upcoming Spring season. Don't miss this opportunity to embark on your beekeeping adventure!

The bees in a swarm make their choice of their new dwelling place collectively and democratically. They stake their future on a process that includes collective fact-finding, vigorous debate, and consensus building. We will look at how these bees evaluate potential nest sites, advertise their discoveries to one another, engage in open deliberation, and choose … Continue reading Dr. Tom Seeley: How a honey bee swarm chooses it home. →

Splits in beekeeping refer to the intentional division of a single hive into multiple colonies, allowing beekeepers to expand their beekeeping operation or prevent swarming. This practice involves carefully separating bees, brood, and resources to create new, self-sustaining hives. In this introduction, we'll explore the art and science of beekeeping splits, discussing when, why, and … Continue reading SPLITS →

In May, beekeepers focus on maximizing honey production as nectar flows peak in many regions. They monitor hive health closely, ensuring adequate space for the expanding colony and managing swarming behavior. Additionally, beekeepers may begin preparations for the summer dearth by providing supplementary feeding if necessary and maintaining vigilance against pests and diseases. Parking Instructions

Join us for an enlightening session on Queen Rearing with a focus on grafting techniques, presented by the experienced beekeeper Aiden Wing. This meeting will offer a practical demonstration of grafting methods, essential for successful queen bee cultivation, and provide attendees with actionable insights into advanced beekeeping practices. Enhance your apiary skills and network with … Continue reading “Queen Rearing (with Grafting Demo)” by Aiden Wing →

The upcoming bee guild meeting on Wednesday will focus on an important topic for beekeepers: protecting honey bees from Varroa mites. Varroa mites are a significant threat to honey bee colonies, and effective management is crucial for maintaining healthy hives. The presentation will cover: This meeting will provide valuable insights to help beekeepers protect their … Continue reading Protect Your Bees from Varroa Mites →

We invite all beekeepers and bee enthusiasts to our monthly guild meeting. This gathering provides an opportunity to: We encourage members to bring questions and share observations from their apiaries. Parking Instructions Metered street parking is available. Parking inside El Rio Mobile Home Park is prohibited. Use the Lenz Arts lot, but avoid the ivy … Continue reading Guild Meeting: October 2, 2024 →

Join us for an engaging presentation on creating products from your hive's resources. Penny Cotter and Dick Vennerbeck will share their expertise in beeswax crafting, including candle making, lip balm production, and furniture polish preparation. We encourage members to bring questions and share observations from their apiaries. Parking Instructions Metered street parking is available. Parking … Continue reading November 6, 2024: Gifts from the hive →

Join us for our annual holiday potluck! Bring your favorite dish to share and enjoy an evening of good food and beekeeping fellowship. Please bring: Parking Instructions Use the Lenz Arts lot, but avoid the ivy wall/gate with “no parking” signs for after-hours staff access. Metered street parking is available. Parking inside El Rio Mobile … Continue reading December 4, 2024: Holiday Potluck →

Join us as we explore the fascinating transition period when honeybee colonies shake off their winter cluster and spring into action! Learn about the vital signs of a thriving overwintered hive - from the first pollen foragers returning with bright loads on their legs to the emergence of male drones that signal colony strength. We'll … Continue reading Spring Awakening: Managing Overwintered Hives →