Learning about bees

Classes and workshops are a great way to begin or continue learning about bees and beekeeping! Additionally, SBA members have written helpful articles and have gathered a variety of resources to help you.

Local workshops and courses

Beekeeping Introduction

Beekeeping is a fun and interesting hobby, however, don't get stung! Find out what's involved before investing your time and resources. This class, presented by the Susquehanna Beekeepers Association, will explain the equipment needed, how to start a hive, and even explain how to make your own equipment. If you decide it's a hobby you would like to pursue, you will be ready for the full Beekeeping class offered in the spring. Bring a claw hammer to class.

Harford Community College non-credit, November 18, 2023, 9AM–12PM

Fee: $20

Register on the HCC website. Search for "beekeeping."

Beekeeping Full Spring Course at Harford Community College

Course Description

This class, offered in partnership with the Susquehanna Beekeepers Association, introduces students to the basics of beekeeping. Topics include starting a beekeeping business, assembling and maintaining equipment, examining honeybees, manipulating hives, and managing diseases and parasites that affect honeybees. Senior citizen and disabled retiree course fee waivers apply. Material fee includes a one year membership in the Susquehanna Beekeepers Association. Last session meets will be determined by the instructor and will be spent at a local bee yard for hands-on experience in examining and manipulating hives. Must be 16 yrs. or older to register independently. Those under 16 may register but must be accompanied by a registered and paid adult. Students are responsible for purchasing the required textbook prior to the first class: The Beekeeper's Handbook, by Diana Sammataro & Alphonse Avitabile, 5th Ed.


Classes are 7-9 pm on Fridays from Feb 09, 2024 to Mar 22, 2024. The last class will be at a local apiary.

Fee $60

For additional information and to register see https://ce.harford.edu/search/publicCourseSearchDetails.do?method=load&courseId=1062622#courseSectionDetails_1101246

Webinars, videos, and book collections

Videos from SBA members

Joe Lewis on Sustainable Beekeeping through Nucleus Colonies

Handy guide to starting beekeeping

A simple but thorough resource for folks interested in starting a new hobby, from Home Advisor.

Ohio State beekeeping webinars

A resource from The Ohio State University Bee Lab.

The E. F. Phillips Beekeeping Collection at Mann Library

The Hive and the Honey Bee and the Phillips Collection, with a searchable collection of free beekeeping books and articles

Sustainable Honeybee Program

This Virginia-based organization provides several videos on beekeeping practices.