Intermediate Class
Each order uses one pickup date. If you add an item that is not available on the current date, the order date will automatically move to the next available date. If you need items on different dates that are not available together, please place separate orders for those items to secure your desired dates.
Description
Intermediate Beekeeping Class — Beekeeping 201
For beekeepers with at least one full season of experience. If you are just getting started, please see our Basic Beekeeping Class.
This hands-on course is designed to help next-level beekeepers evaluate, strengthen, and grow their apiaries with confidence.
When second-year colonies reach maturity, they may be ready to split into multiple colonies or expand upward for a honey crop during nectar flow. Knowing when to split, when to equalize, when to treat, and when to harvest is essential for maintaining healthy colonies.
Ready for the Next Level?
This class is intended for beekeepers who already understand the fundamentals and are ready to expand their management skills through real-time hive evaluation and discussion.
This is an outdoor, hands-on class. We will inspect working hives and discuss management decisions in real time. Protective gear is strongly recommended.
Confirmation & Final Payment
Once registered, you will receive a confirmation email with additional details.
Final payment is due prior to the class date.
Space is limited. Pre-registration is required.
Specifications
What We Will Cover
The class will generally include, but is not limited to the following topics of demonstration:
- Grading Hives
- Taking inventory of available resources in hives
- Equalizing Hives
- Borrowing resources from one colony to strengthen another
- Making Splits
- Dividing a healthy mature colony into two or more colonies
- Finding Queens
- Locating and evaluating queens
- Checking for Varroa
- Using the soapy water or alcohol wash method and probing brood
- Applying Varroa Treatments
- When to treat and how to choose the proper method
- Extracting Honey
- How much to rob and when
After the hive work, we allow time for questions, several pro tips, and open discussion.
Who This Class Is For
Who This Class Is For
This class is designed for beekeepers who have completed a good full season managing their own hive.
It is ideal for:
• Second-year beekeepers expanding their apiary
• Beekeepers preparing to make splits
• Anyone wanting more confidence in evaluating hive strength
• Those ready to deepen their understanding of Varroa management
If you are still learning basic hive inspections or equipment identification, the Basic Beekeeping Class is recommended first.
What To Bring
What To Bring
- A bee veil or suit
- A pair of gloves
- A notepad if you like taking notes
We will be working active hives and performing deeper inspections than a quick check.
What to expect
What to expect
Open Hive Inspections
Seasonal Notes
Early Bird Specials
Visit the Bees for Sale pages for special deals for select pick up dates.
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Purpose:
Provide specials and updates across family products
Pickup Information
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We offer "Curb Side" style pick up for folks on the go with minimal delays ... or we can open the hives to show you the bees and queens on any of the available Pick Up Dates. You select from multiple dates when placing an order. Each of the hive purchase options are available with or without our popular basic beekeeping school. Classes are held in the mornings, 10:00 am till noon, followed by loading bees in the afternoons.
Help and FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Weather & Safety
Classes are weather permitting. We do not open hives in heavy rain or temperatures below 60°F.
If a storm develops during class, we have covered and indoor facilities available. While we will not open hives during inclement weather, instruction and discussion continue safely.
Children & Families
We welcome families and young people interested in learning about bees.
This is a hands-on outdoor class involving active hives. Parents should determine whether their child is mature enough to participate safely and remain attentive.
Protective gear is recommended for youth participants.
Additional Details
Additional Information
The classes are held in the mornings of the scheduled Pick Up Dates, typically weekends from 10:00 AM until 12:00 noon.
Classes are weather permitting, of course. We do not open hives in heavy rain or temps below 60.
Visit the FAQs & How To page for general information about bees including picking up and transporting bees.
General Information
The Short & Sweet Fine Print
All orders are subject to the availability of raw materials. All prices are subject to change without notice.
All Hives, Bees, Parts and Supplies are Local Pick Up Only. Shipping is not available.
Educational content on this website is provided for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as veterinary, agricultural, or legal advice.
Beekeeping practices vary by region, climate, and experience level. By consulting appropriate local resources and professionals when making management decisions often produces the desired and best results.
