Welcome to MSBA

MSBA is a non-profit membership organization of beekeepers in Maine, dedicated to education, using best practices and honey bee health. Affiliated with local chapters throughout the state, MSBA also works with the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry to promote the honey bee, products of the hive and initiatives to support beekeepers. 

Bee School
Bee School in Session!

2025 Bee Schools

Learn about bee biology, hive types, tools and equipment, and how to be a Beekeeper - before you get your honeybees!
Courses offered in-person and online.

Learn More

Annual-Meeting-2024
Join us at the Annual Meeting!

Annual Meeting


The 2024 event will be held on Saturday, October 19th, hosted again by Tri-County Beekeepers Club. Speakers at this year’s conference are Jon Zawislak, Assistant Professor of Apiculture and Urban Entomology for the University of Arkansas, and Mike Palmer of French Hill Apiaries in St. Albans Vermont. Maine State Apiarist Jen Lund will give the State of the State address. Join us for a full day of learning with beekeepers from all over the state. There will be vendor booths, a buffet lunch, honey tasting contest and a raffle auction of bee-related items. Registration fee is $45.

bee hive in snow
It's time for mouse guards

Beekeeper's Calendar

DECEMBER
Bees will spend most of the month in a tight cluster. When the weather is above 40º they will move to new areas of the hive and take cleansing flights. Gauge food levels in wintering colonies by lifting one corner of the hive and feeling the “honey weight”. If it is warm (above 40º without wind) you can quickly peek through the hole in the inner cover to see where the bees are in the hive and assess their food reserves. After every snow storm, clear entrances to allow for proper ventilation. Then sit back, enjoy a big mug of tea with honey, and start reading your favorite bee books and magazines.

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