Beekeeping Classes

A number of people have noticed our adventures in beekeeping, and have indicated an interest in getting into bees themselves.  We have found the learning curve in beekeeping to be pretty steep, and one of the best ways to gain the necessary knowledge is to take classes from experienced beekeepers.  To that end, we have gathered information on a variety of classes available to people just beginning in this crazy hobby. 

 Southern Illinois Beekeeping Association

Beekeeping 101part 1/2 - January 10, 6:00p-8:00p.  The local beekeeping group, the Southern Illinois Beekeeping Association, is full of experienced beeks, and they are very generous with sharing their knowledge and experience.

Beekeeping 101 Part 2/2 - January 16, 6:00p-8:00p, the second part of the beginning class taught be members of S.I.B.A.  Both of these classes are taught at the U of I Extension office 402 Ava Rd, Murphysboro, IL.

Beekeeping 101 - March 2, 10:00a-12:00p Another class taught by the members of S.I.B.A., this one is at Plantscape Nursery at 720 North 33rd Street, Herrin, IL.

In addition to these classes, S.I.B.A. hold regular meetings at the Extension Office which often includes opening and inspecting hives there on the grounds, weather permitting.  Check out the homepage, https://www.siallabuzz.com/, or their Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/SI-All-A-Buzz-122105784493539/, for more information.

 Shawnee Bee Club

Fundamentals of Beginner Bee Keeping - January 28, 6:00p-8:00p.  The Shawnee Bee Club is another local bee club, this one in Harrisburg, IL.  I don't know this group, but I suspect it is another gathering of enthusiastic and helpful beekeepers who would love to meet you.

Leedle Houme Bees

Beginning Beekeeping Class - February 2, 9:00a-1:00p.  Rose and Doug Leedle run Leedle Houme Bees at 2713 State Highway 14, Mulkeytown, IL.  Their shop has everything you need to get started in beekeeping, as well as the things to keep going as you get more advanced.  We have found them to be very knowledgeable and helpful to beginning beeks, and we heartily recomeend them as a source for both supplies and information.  This class is to be taught at the West Franklin Historucal District and Silkwood Inn Museaum, 2130 Schoolhouse Rd, Mulkeytown, IL.

 Beginning Beekeeping Class - February 9, 9:00a-1:00p.  Another opportunity to learn from Rose and Doug Leedle.

John A. Logan College

PS 788 - Beekeeping (Practical)   This four-week class begins Thursday, April 4 at 6:00p, and is taught by Mary Ellen Brown.


There are probably more opportunities around which I am not aware of.  Please, drop us a line and let us know so we can share it with other interested people.  We are going into our third year of beekeeping and couldn't have made it this far without the help and advice of numerous experienced beekeepers.  We would be happy to help you too, to the extent that we can.  If you have questions, please let us know and we will do our best to answer them.  Be warned, beekeepers love to talk about bees.