Avon Beekeepers Website |
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| A Registered Charity - No. 271717 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Weston-super-Mare Branch
The
aim of Weston-super-Mare Beekeepers is offer an educational
programme in order to improve the standard of beekeeping in the
area and to keep members up to date with the ever changing world of
bees and beekeeping. We also have an educational stand at various
events during the year in order to help the public understand more
about the importance of honey bees in the environment. New beekeepers are always welcome but it must be emphasised from the beginning that beekeeping is a craft and it does take a long time to learn. After about two years members are encouraged to study for the ‘Basic Beekeeping Assessment’ which is a certificate of competence. Weston-super-Mare Beekeepers have a number of new members this year and we are in the process of setting up a new branch apiary with teaching hives so that new beekeepers can learn by having some hands-on experience. Annual subscription for 2009/10 is:£21 for full members£14 for partner members £10 for associate members For more information on:Beekeeping equipment: contact Brenda DaviesDetails of courses: contact Brenda Davies Swarm collection:contact Mark Tilley. Please note that there may be a charge for collecting swarms.Answers to some frequently asked questions:Q. How much honey will I get from a hive of bees?A. The average harvest is about 40 lbs (18 kilos) but in a good year, bees that are well looked after should produce more. Q. How much does it cost to start keeping bees? A. Allow £200-£300 to start with new equipment. Less if you buy second hand. Q. How do I start? A. It is recommended that you start by going on a course to learn the basics before you get bees of your own. Then attend some hands-on apiary meetings to get your confidence. |
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