The Powell County Beekeepers Association applied for a Beekeeper Conservation Grant through the Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund. They were approved for a grant of approximately $5,000 in equipment to set up a Honey Bee Conservation Program that would provide mentoring and inspection of Powell County area beehives. The grant was able to help 10 local beekeepers to purchase equipment for their beekeeping practice. Out of those that applied, four applicants were beginner beekeepers. There was also an increase in hives by about thirty colonies due to the grant. 

The Powell County Beekeepers have been able to increase membership by about 25% in the past year. They have held several educational workshops and field days in Powell and the surrounding counties. For example, a Beginner’s Beekeeping Workshop covered topics such as, what to expect during the first year of beekeeping, equipment costs, pest/disease management, and selecting a site for hives.