Entomology: UGA Honey Bee Program

Young Harris Beekeeping Institute

21st Annual Beekeeping Institute Dates: May 10-12, 2012

Registration opens March 5th.

The UGA honey bee program offers the annual Beekeeping Institute in cooperation with Young Harris College. Since 1992 the Institute has represented the single most comprehensive opportunity in the Southeast for concentrated training in all aspects of practical beekeeping. Held on the beautiful campus of Young Harris (GA) College in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Institute is a two-day event with lectures and workshops by leading authorities on honey bees. There are separate curricula for beginners and more experienced beekeepers, as well as fun optional activities such as a competitive honey show, gadgets display, and practical examinations.

Certifications

Besides offering classes for beekeepers at all levels of experience, the Institute sponsors the Georgia Master Beekeeper Program (GMBP) and partners with the Welsh (U.K.) National Bee Keepers Association to provide North America’s only licensing program for honey judges.

See Certifications for more information.

Schedule of Events

Thursday is dedicated to training and certification examinations for the GMBP Journeyman, Master, and Master Craftsman levels as well as the Welsh Honey Judge qualifications. Training and certification for the GMBP Certified (beginner’s) level are incorporated into the normal activities for the beginners’ track Friday and Saturday.

The Institute proper, Friday and Saturday, features a 2-track system – one track for experienced beekeepers and another for beginners.

Honey Show

One of the most rewarding opportunities of the Institute is the annual Honey Show. Besides categories in honey, the Honey Show includes classes in photography, art, candles, section comb honey, mead, and beekeeping gadgets. We urge students to participate in the Institute Honey Show, even if you’ve never competed before.

See Honey Show for more information.