ONLINE BEE-TALK: The mtbakerbees online forum is a good place to ask questions, (they’re all good ones!), have in-depth discussions and just see what beekeepers are talking about in Whatcom County. Join us!
BOOKS: It’s important to have a good “how-to-do-it” beekeeping book. I like Diana Sammataro’s The Beekeeper’s Handbook, 5th edition. published April 2021, so it’s up-to-date on the latest science-based beekeeping practices.
Bellingham and Whatcom County Library Systems have a great collection of beekeeping books, so browse before buying. There’s a lot bee info online, but it’s hard for a new beekeeper to sift the good stuff out from the questionable.
CLASSES: “Successful Beekeeping in Whatcom County” taught by Michael Jaross. This is a comprehensive 8-week in-person course for new and newer beekeepers. Starts March 5, 2024. Register Here. Meets Tuesdays: 6:30-8:30 pm. Location: Chuckanut Center. Tuition: $325 A “hands-on” course describing how I’ve kept bees sustainably for 17 years in Whatcom County. With a successful pattern to follow, new beekeepers can succeed in their first years of beekeeping.
Janet Wilson, Master Beekeeper from Tsawwassen BC, offers a comprehensive online resource for Pacific Northwest beekeepers. It’s a complete beekeeping course, an in-depth resource. Prepare to be amazed: Begin at the Beeginning
EQUIPMENT: There are many good online suppliers. Two of the largest are Mann Lake and Dadant. It can be very instructive to look through bee supply catalogs just to see what beekeeping tools and equipment look like. Both these suppliers have large online catalogs and they will gleefully send you their paper catalogs, too. Forever!
PRIVATE CONSULTING: My own consulting service for hobby beekeepers, Whatcom Bee Help, offers custom hive care and private instruction. I can help you get started, do hive inspections, provide vacation care for your hives and many other apiary services. Keep your bees alive, healthy and productive with Whatcom Bee Help.
Cheers, Michael
Michael Jaross
Whatcom Bee Help
