The University of Maryland Eastern Shore Extension’s Apiary Program is offering a half-day workshop that will take the mystery out of hive inspections, equip beekeepers with the skills to confidently assess colony health and make informed management decisions.
The workshop, taught by Stephen Goewey, beekeeper and program assistant, will be held May 17 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at the apiary located at the UMES Research, Extension and Teaching Farm in Princess Anne.
Participants will learn inspection techniques, develop critical observation skills, and gain hands-on experience in our apiary with Langstroth hives. Perfect for new beekeepers looking to understand their colonies and help them thrive.
This half-day session combines classroom learning with practical apiary experience, allowing you to develop and practice essential inspection skills.
In the classroom portion, we’ll cover the complete inspection process from preparation to closing the hive, emphasizing proper recordkeeping, identifying signs of colony health, recognizing common pests and diseases, and determining when interventions are necessary.
You’ll learn what to look for during each season and how to adapt your inspections to the unique conditions of Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Then, weather permitting, we’ll suit up and head to the bee yard.
In the apiary portion, you’ll put your knowledge into practice with a guided inspection of our teaching hives. Working in small groups, you’ll gain confidence in handling frames, identifying different types of brood, locating the queen, and assessing overall colony condition.
Each participant will receive valuable resources, including a disease and pest identification guide, a seasonal management calendar, and a decision tree for common hive issues tailored to our Zone 7a Eastern Shore climate and conditions.
Whether you’re a first-year beekeeper looking to build confidence or someone wanting to refine your observation skills, this workshop will enhance your ability to “read” your hives and make better management decisions.
The cost is $25. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Suits will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own. Lunch will be provided.
WHEN: Saturday, May 17, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
WHERE: UMES Research, Extension and Teaching Farm, 10789 Stewart Neck Road, Princess Anne, MD 21853
COST: $25
REGISTRATION: Pre-registration is required
CONTACT: Crystal J. Sankar; UMES Small Farm Program, at cjsankar@umes.edu
