Benjamin Powell M ’07, program coordinator for Clemson University’s Apiculture and Pollinator Program, grows Clemson’s beekeeping program in South Carolina through Clemson Cooperative Extension Service. He also teaches a Basics of Beekeeping training course for new and aspiring beekeepers.
Having extensive knowledge of everything bees, Powell gives beginners six steps to becoming successful beekeepers.
1. Remember that bees are stinging insects
“Getting stung is just part of it,” Powell stated. “Carpenters get splinters. Mechanics bust their knuckles. Beekeepers get stung. A good beekeeper minimizes that. We just want people to know that you’re not going to get into beekeeping and completely avoid being stung.” Bees have signals they will send out if they are feeling threatened and starting to get defensive. A good beekeeper gently handles bees and wears protective gear.
2. Seek out a training course
Clemson offers a variety of opportunities to gain further understanding before independently getting into beekeeping. The University has a Basics of Beekeeping hybrid course that introduces people to beekeeping basics, including how to begin. Local bee clubs also offer beginner training. Powell said there are more clubs around than one might think.
3. Read beginner books
“There’s as much literature about bees out there as there is just about any other creature on this planet,” he said. “Libraries and libraries of books.” Powell advised to read up and educate yourself as much as possible about bees to know exactly what you are getting into.
4. Join your local bee club
It’s beneficial to link up with other beekeepers in your area so you can learn about their experiences with bees in your region. “It can be very different from beekeepers that are in Oconee County versus beekeepers that are in Charleston County,” Powell said. “Different plants, different ecosystems, different seasons.” Joining your local bee club can strengthen your expertise as high-profile beekeepers give talks and offer tips.
5. Look for advanced training
There is a wide variety of continuing education that one can do, especially at the beginning of his or her beekeeping journey. Clemson offers different training sessions for anyone across the state who is curious about beekeeping and wants to grasp all the knowledge they can.
6. Consider why you’re getting into beekeeping
People seek out beekeeping for all kinds of reasons. Before you get started, think about your why. “Is it just so that you can produce a little honey for you and your friends? Are you trying to make a business out of it? Is your interest in pollination? Because that’s going to determine how invested you’ll be in it,” Powell pointed out. Beekeeping is some folks’ livelihood, while others are more “sideline beekeepers.” No matter what level of beekeeping you’re exploring, educating yourself on your area of focus is most important.
