The Little Sandy Beekeepers Association meet bimonthly to share ideas and learn tips and techniques to improve their operations.    The Association has continued to meet via zoom throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.    The Carter County ANR Agent has secured speakers including UK Extension specialists and organized the zoom calls.    Topics have included plants for bees, preparing hives for fall and winter, resources available through SOAR, and an update from the KY State Beekeeper Association president-elect.  Fourteen local community members have participated in at least one of the sessions, with many participating multiple times.

A beginner beekeeper attended the October meeting and had several production questions after the meeting.   In order to address his questions, the ANR Agent set up a call with KSU specialist Dr. Tom Webster.  At the recommendation of Dr. Webster, the ANR agent arranged for the club president to visit the new beekeeper and assist him with combining hives.    The ANR agent filmed the visit and made a video to assist other beginning beekeepers that is available on the Carter County Ag YouTube and Facebook pages.  Dr. Ric Bessin’s presentation on preparing hives for fall and winter is also available on the YouTube and Facebook pages.

Club members have expressed their appreciation for being able to continue to meet, learn, and improve their operations through this time.