Kirk Webster

Kirk Webster is a beekeeper and queen breeder in Vermont and he was featured in the "Queen of the Sun" movie recently shown in Bozeman.  Coincidentally, Webster was also mention in a book I just finished on agriculture, development and the culture of Western Vermont and the Adirondacks of New York state.  So I thought I had better look him up online and I found that he has generously published a collection of his writings on honey bees.  Click here to explore kirkwebster.com.  Good stuff for those interested chemical free beekeeping and locally adapted queens.

New USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

Here is the long awaited updated USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map complete with "Zone by Zip Code" feature.

The Managed Pollinator CAP after Three Years

Dr. Keith Delaplane from the University of Georgia summarizes the past three years of research by the Managed Pollinator Coordinated Agricultural Project (CAP).  This is a USDA funded project, supporting research at university bee labs across the country.  Pour a cup of tea and read the summary by clicking here.  It is the most concise summary on the current state of honey bee health I've read.

Queen of the Sun

Queen of the Sun is this Thursday at the Emerson Cultural Center. Showtime is 7:30 and tickets are $3.  The lobby will feature informational booths, no host food and drink starting at 6pm.  Come early and drop by the Gallatin Valley Beekeepers Club booth and visit with Chip, Allison or myself.  The photo is of Yvon from France, and he is featured in the film.  I want to bee just like him when I grow up!

Certified Naturally Grown Apiary Standards

Certified Naturally Grown, an alternative to the USDA's National Organic Program has released a best management practices handbook for apiaries wishing to be certified under their guidelines.  Click here to have a look at the PDF version.  Worth the look even if you are not interested in the Certified Naturally Grown program.

Gallatin Valley Beekeepers Club Meeting

The Gallatin Valley Beekeepers Club will meet this Saturday, January 21 at 8:30 am in the small meeting room at the Bozeman Public Library.  Plans for winter and spring activities will be addressed, so make sure you are there to get your two cents in!

Helena Beekeeping Workshop - March 3rd

Lewis and Clark County will be hosting a beekeeping workshop on March 3rd at the fair grounds.  Click here for the link for agenda and registration details.