At The Santa Cruz Permaculture Farm

A Comprehensive Approach to Beekeeping, Pollinator Habitat, and Biodiversity

Have you ever wanted to learn the skills needed to produce your very own honey? Interested in producing your own beeswax, pollen or propolis? Have you ever wanted to ensure your garden or farm has a sustained and healthy source of pollinators for a bountiful crop of fruits and veggies? We are pleased to offer this beginning level beekeeping practicum grounded in a natural approach to apiculture, with a focus on sustainable hive management, honey production and pollinator health.

Humankind’s relationship with bees reaches back to the dawn of time. Our dependence on bees for their role in our food systems, and our responsibility for their care continues to this day. Come engage with these incredible little beings and learn both the art and science of regenerative beekeeping.

Learning Objectives 

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

• Have knowledge of different hive styles and beekeeping equipment
• Engage in seasonal care of honeybees
• Promote honey production and understand harvesting techniques
• Identify pests and hazards to the hive and mitigate them using IPM
• Process beeswax to make candles, salves and countless other products
• Create a customized pollinator garden plan for your home or farm so that you can promote pollinator health
• Understand the intricate and fascinating life cycles, behavior, and natural history of the honey bee