The COMB club has adopted and promotes the philosophy of practicing sustainble beekeeping.  We recognize that challenges faced by our bees are, in part, a direct result of past practices using chemical-based hive management, a lack of attention to bee genetics and selection practices, as well as others.  It is becoming increasingly apparent that part of the solution lies in developing locally produced bee stock (strains) whose genetics reflect the the traits necessary to survive in our local area.  In short, we need to be breeding for "survivability" in order to reduce our reliance on chemical-based intervention.  The June Queen Rearing class is one step in this direction.

The class will be led by Michigan's own Larry Conner, a nationally and internationally recognized speaker, author and publisher.  We are truly fortunate to have such a valuable recource as Larry available as an instructor.

There will be detailed instruction on using a swarm box for cell starters and cell finishers, grafting and creating the proper conditions for raising quality queens.  Students will graft quality queens cells from VSH queens. The queens will be available for students to take home after they are old enough to be safely handled.

Lead Instructor:  Dr. Larry Conner

When: Friday night, Saturday and Sunday.  June 11, 12 and 13, 2010.

Where:  Mike Risk Apiary

Cost:  $275.00 with $140.00 to hold a spot and balance due at the beginning of class 

Enrollment: Reservations required.  Space still available (as of 2/6/2010).

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