Maine Bee Schools in 2024
Acquiring some basic but essential skills is critical to becoming a successful beekeeper. “Bee School” will get you off to a great start. Classes run for varying lengths from January through April, all over the state. They are conducted by local chapters, adult education programs, beekeeping supply businesses and in cooperation with county extension offices.
These practical courses are a must for beginners, and a great chance for intermediate level beekeepers to update and refresh their skills. In-person learning has many advantages, but due to public health concerns some programs have been switched to online. Either way, acquiring an educational foundation in beekeeping will greatly improve your chances of success!
If you are a new beekeeper, locate a chapter in your area to get help or find a mentor. Most of these clubs also hold open hive demos during the summer months.
2024 Online Courses (coming soon)
2024 In-Person Courses (by location)
Albion
Swan’s Honey
Beginner Beekeeping Class
- 1st class is Saturday March 16 from 9 am to 11:30 am
- 2nd class is Monday March 18 from 6:30 pm to 9 pm
- 3rd class is Wednesday March 20 from 6:30 to 9 pm
- 4th class is Saturday March 23 from 9 am to 11:30 am
- Field day will be first or second Saturday in May depending on weather
Advanced Beekeeping Class
- 1st class is Saturday March 16 from 12:30 to 3 pm
- 2nd class is Tuesday March 19 from 6:30 to 9 pm
- 3rd class is Thursday March 21 from 6:30 to 9 pm
- 4th class is Saturday March 23 from 12:30 to 3 pm
- Field day will be first or second Saturday in May depending on weather
Class is $70 per person and includes book and all handouts, $120 for 2 people sharing book and handouts. All classes held at Swan’s Honey 332 Bessey Ridge Road Albion
Augusta
Bath
Blue Hill
The classes will take place in the Howard Room of the Blue Hill Library. The cost is $55 for the course and includes a membership to the Club.
Anyone who is interested can fill out our form to be added to the mailing list:
https://forms.gle/Ep1dYf74dJrTswuHA
Or contact us at: tricountybeekeepers.school2024@gmail.com or tricountybeekeepers@yahoo.com
Whitefield
Beginner Beekeeping – 6 day class, March 5, 12, 19, 26 and April 2 and 9, Tuesday evenings 5-7pm
Free Online Courses
Many online courses and YouTube videos are helpful as a supplement to in-person Bee Schools, but they may not be an adequate substitute for local learning. Your beekeeping management must be geared to Maine’s climate conditions.
University of Guelph (Ontario)
Honey Bee Research Centre
“How-To Beekeeping Video Series” a comprehensive library of videos from getting started to more advanced topics.
National Cooperative Extension Resource
First Lessons in Beekeeping: Honey Bee Biology
Basic Beekeeping Techniques
Scientific Beekeeping
First Year Beekeeping is presented by biologist and commercial beekeeper Randy Oliver
Heroes to Hives
Free online beekeeping program for Veterans, Reservists, Active Duty or National Guard members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their adult children, spouses, partners and caregivers. www.HeroesToHives.com
Hives for Heroes
Hives for Heroes® is a national non-profit service organization focusing on sustainability, conservation, and providing a healthy transition from service. Through our national network of beekeepers, we provide connection, purpose, and healthy relationships, through access, resources, and funding for Active Duty, Veterans, and First Responders. www.hivesforheroes.com
Watch videos here to learn the step-by-step process, roles, responsibilities, and expectations of Hives for Heroes members.


