Martin County CES

Title:

Beekeeping

MAP:

Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources

Agents Involved:

Ag

MAJOR PROGRAM 1:

KSU Small Farm Program

MAJOR PROGRAM 2:

Beef

MAJOR PROGRAM 3:

Local Food Systems

MAJOR PROGRAM 4:

Data Management & Tech

Situation:

The sudden loss of honeybee colonies prompted the Agriculture Program Committee to approach the County Extension Council with the idea of entering in research to help determine the problem. Funding was secured to purchase equipment to enter into research being conducted by NASA, package bees were purchased from outside the typical places to determine if the problem lies with bees purchased from usual areas.

Long-Term Outcomes:

The loss of honeybee colonies will be reduced.

Intermediate Outcomes:

Beekeepers will make changes in the methods of nurturing colonies of honeybees. Honey production will increase and the survival rate of colonies will increase.

Initial Outcomes:

The beekeepers will learn new skills to help reduce the loss of colonies of honeybees.

Evaluation:

Initial Outcome:

Indicator: Knowledge and skills will increase.

Method: Monthly trainings and research results.

Timeline: One year.

Intermediate Outcome:

Indicator: Increase in number of live hives.

Method: Research results

Timeline: One year.

Long-Term Outcome:

Indicator: Number of live hives of honeybees and increase in honey production.

Method: Results from research

Timeline: Two Years

Learning Opportunities:

Audience:

Audience: Beekeepers and home gardeners

Project or Activity: Educational component at monthly meetings and gardening classes

Content or Curriculum: Research results and University publications

Inputs: NASA, local and state beekeepers associations

Date: July 2016-June 2020

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Success Stories