Young Harris Beekeeping Institute Dates for 2010: May 13-15

Since 1992 the Beekeeping Institute has represented the single most comprehensive opportunity in the Southeast for concentrated training in all aspects of practical beekeeping. Held on Young Harris College’s campus, the Institute is a two-day event with lectures and workshops by leading authorities on honey bees that is co-hosted by Young Harris College and the University of Georgia. 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.

Dr. Paul Arnold, biology professor and Dean of the Division of Mathematics and Science at Young Harris College, is a co-founder of this event, along with Robert Brewer of the Towns County Extension Office and Keith Delaplane, the State Apiculturalist at UGA.

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.

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.

For complete program information, visit http://www.ent.uga.edu/bees/young-harris/index.html.