Start Your Beekeeping Journey The Beekeepers Association of Rowan County invites you to our annual Beginner Bee School. Specifically designed for newcomers, this course provides the foundational knowledge, practical skills, and local mentorship needed to successfully manage your first honeybee colonies with confidence. The class meets on the last two Saturdays of February and the first two Saturdays of March, from 8:00 AM until 12:00 PM each day. Attendees receive extensive training materials and daily giveaways with numeras Grand Prizes awarded on the last day. Program Benefits Expert local guidance Hands-on hive training Community support network Ongoing mentorship program Extensive training materials Daily course giveaways Topics Covered Honeybee biology Hive setup & tools Seasonal management Pests and diseases Beekeeping history and roots Go Back Sign Up for Beekeepers Association of Rowan County's Beginning Beekeeping Class Ready to start your beekeeping journey? You can register online for our upcoming multi-session course starting on February 20, 2027. Secure your spot today and join a community of local honeybee enthusiasts. The cost for the class is: Individual Ticket $80 Couple/Family Tickets (2) $140 Your Ticket will get you: 16 hours of in person instruction from excellent beekeepers Beekeeping for Dummies book Course notebook with all program slides and additional reference materials Refreshments on each day of instruction Door prizes each day Grand prizes on last day (Complete hive, Nuc package, Gift certificates and more Weather permitting hands on bee yard work. 1 year membership to BARC Access to BARC equipment Mentor support for your new beekeeping endeavor Opportunity to take the written portion of the NCSBA Certified Beekeeper test The schedule for the class: 4 consecutive Saturday starting on February 20, 2027 and ending March 13, 2027. Classes start at 8am and run until 12 noon each day. NCSBA Certified Beekeepers written test given on last day of training Register for Beekeepers Association of Rowan County Beginning Beekeeping Class

Mentor and Mentee Guidelines Go Back MENTOR-MENTEE GUIDELINES Mentor-Mentee Program Goal: To increase the knowledge of bees and beekeeping for beekeepers, to reinforce knowledge for more experienced beekeepers and to establish new relationships that help build community around honeybees and pollinators. Mentors are BARC members who choose to work with other beekeepers on a volunteer basis to share their knowledge so that all can become more experienced beekeepers. Mentees must be a member of the BARC to request a Mentor. Mentor Guidelines Mentors will reach out to their Mentees to discuss their respective expectations and limitations. Mentors will try to coordinate hands-on hive inspections at the Mentor’s hives and will try to arrange to visit the Mentees’ hives as time and weather allows. Mentors will share information and advice with their Mentees that are appropriate to the time of year and which offer the opportunity for Mentees to make timely inspections of their hives. This can be done by Mentors through in-person inspections and demonstrations and also through the sharing of on-line and other resources. Optimal Mentor-Mentee interactions include monitoring the hives for queen health and overall hive health, expansion of the hive through adding supers, mite testing and discussion of treatment options as necessary and honey supering. They may also include additional hive activities as time and opportunities permit. Mentors will share their email and phone contact information so that Mentees can reach out for advice. Mentors should respond to such calls and emails from mentees as soon as they are able, recognizing that some calls could require fast responses. Mentees will be reasonable in the frequency of such calls and emails. Suggested amounts of time should be discussed between Mentor and Mentee from the start.. Mentors will not charge for their services.. If any problems should arise with a Mentee, contact mgwilliams@rowanbeekeepers.org unless a Mentor Program Leader has been appointed. Mentee Guidelines Mentees should understand that Mentors are volunteering their time to serve as resources to Mentees and recognize the time constraints that Mentors may have during beekeeping season. Mentees should feel free to reach out to their Mentor to resolve questions and concerns about their hives and beekeeping, however, Mentees should consult various books and on-line resources (including those on the BARC website) before asking for help. Mentees should be respectful of their Mentor’s time and establish an understanding of the time that the Mentor is most available and the frequency with which contact is appropriate. Mentees are encouraged to be available to join the Mentor at his/her hive inspections to increase the learning opportunities for the Mentee. If and when the Mentor is coming to work with the Mentee’s hives, be sure to be prepared and have the materials necessary for that inspection/visit unless discussed otherwise with the Mentor beforehand. Mentees should work their hives in a continuous, timely manner throughout the season based on suggestions from their Mentor. Mentees should attend as many BARC meetings as possible and ask questions of other members to get as much out of your experience as possible. Mentees acknowledge that there is no guarantee that their hives will maintain perfect health as a result of working with a Mentor and Mentors take no responsibility for the overall health or sustainability of any of the Mentees’ hives. If any problems should arise with your Mentor, contact mgwilliams@rowanbeekeepers.org unless a Mentor Program Leader has been appointed. Request a Mentor

Discover the Beekeepers Association of Rowan County, dedicated to honey bee education and conservation in Rowan County. Protect the Bees. Sustain Our Future. Leading Honey Bee and Pollinator Education in Rowan County The Beekeepers Association of Rowan County is a non-profit organization dedicated to the education about and preservation of honey bees and pollinators. We promote the importance of these crucial species through community outreach and educational initiatives, ensuring a sustainable future for our environment and local agriculture. By fostering conservation efforts and sharing scientific knowledge, we strive to empower our community to protect the vital role pollinators play in our everyday lives, from sustaining our food supply to enhancing the beauty of our natural landscapes. Together, we can create a buzz about conservation and secure a healthy habitat for all. Our Mission Empowering Our Community Through Bee Education Beginning Beekeeping School A comprehensive course for beginner Beekeepers covering hive setup, safety, and basic colony maintenance essentials. Taught annually in February and March. Additional Information Like to have a Beekeeper speak at your school, organization, or community event? BARC members are available to provide beekeeping presentations to local schools and other organizations. Need a Speaker Additional Information Additional Information The BARC Youth Apprentice Beekeeper Program is a Biannual program designed to provide an opportunity for youth from ages 10-14 to experience the art of beekeeping and understanding the value of honeybees to our environment. Youth Apprentice Program Whether you’re a seasoned beekeeper or simply passionate about nature, join our community to protect Rowan County’s pollinators through education, resources, and shared advocacy. Join the Hive Become a Member Connect with Us Phone: +1 (704) 754-6345 Email: info@rowanbeekeepers.org Have a question, suggestion, or feedback about beekeeping or our programs? We’d love to hear from you. Share your thoughts with us using the form below. First Name: Last Name: Email* Phone: Message* Submit Our Partners

Go Back How To Videos Randy Oliver - YouTube Bob Binnie - YouTube Kamon Reynolds - Tennessee's Bees - YouTube 628DirtRooster Bees - YouTube Inside The Hive TV - YouTube Richard Noel - YouTube Beekeeping With Natalee - YouTube Gus Mitchell's Fly Back Split Method Explained | Stream Team Nugget brucesbees - YouTube Beekeeping How To Start Beekeeping In 2026 Traditional Beekeeping - YouTube Podcast Mysteries of Honey Bees | iHeart Beekeeping Today – The Beekeeping Podcast for All Beekeepers Two Bees in a Podcast • A podcast on Spotify f or Creators Beekeeping at FiveApple | Leigh Wilkerson BEEKEEPNG SHORT AND SWEET PODCAST Beekeeping For Newbees® | RedCircle Hive Mind the podcast for Beekeepers by a Beekeeper Education Bee Identification Guide Scientific Beekeeping Honey Bee Health Coalition Honey Bee Suite Honey Bee Sciences | NCSU Apiculture Lab The Bees of North Carolina: An Identification Guide | NC State Extension Publications How to Become a Beekeeper in North Carolina | NC State Extension Publications Beekeeping Webinars - Pollinators | NC State Extension Comparison of Russian and Italian Honey Bees | NC State Extension Publications The Different Types of Honey Bees | NC State Extension Publications The Honey Bee Dance Language | NC State Extension Publications Beekeeper Corner - Where Beekeepers Grow and Honey Flows USDA Programs and Resources to Support Beekeepers Free Beekeeping Tools & Calculators (2025) | Apiary Tools Queen Bee Marking Color 2026 - Color Chart by Year | Apiary Tools

Go Back BARC Mentor Request Connecting with a mentor through the Beekeepers Association of Rowan County is the best way to kickstart your journey into apiculture. Our experienced guides provide hands-on support to help you navigate the learning curve, build your confidence in the hive, and ensure you are practicing responsible bee stewardship for a healthy colony. BARC Mentor Request Form Request a Mentor to help get your Beekeeping Journey off to a good start. First Name:* Last Name:* Email* Phone Number* Mailing Address Please provide your complete mailing address. Address* City:* State:* Zip Code:* How long have you been keeping bees?* How many hives do you currently have or expect to get?* Are you a current member of Beekeepers Association of Rowan County (BARC)?* Will your bees be located at your address, if not please include the address where the bee's will be located ?* Do you have any areas of concern more than others ? I agree to the BARC Mentor Mentee Guidelines * Submit Application

Honey bees Are social insects that live in well‑organized colonies made up of a queen, thousands of worker bees, and a few hundred drones. They collect nectar and pollen from flowers, turning nectar into honey and helping plants reproduce through pollination. This makes honey bees essential for many crops and wild plants. Though they can sting when threatened, they are generally gentle and focused on foraging and caring for the hive. Wasps Are slender, smooth‑bodied insects that can be either solitary or social, depending on the species. Social wasps, like paper wasps, yellow jackets, and hornets, live in colonies and build paper‑like nests from chewed wood fibers. Many wasps are predators, hunting other insects to feed their young, which makes them helpful for natural pest control. Because they can sting multiple times and may defend their nests aggressively, wasps should be treated with caution and respect around homes and outdoor spaces. Common Bees of North Carolina Yellow jackets Are social wasps that live in colonies usually built underground or in enclosed spaces. They have bright yellow and black markings and a smooth stinger that allows them to sting multiple times. Unlike honey bees, yellow jackets are predators and scavengers, feeding on insects, meat, and sugary foods. They can become aggressive when defending their nest or when attracted to human food, making them a common late‑summer and fall pest around outdoor activities. The Bees of North Carolina Dive deeper into the world of bees with 'The Bees of North Carolina,' an extensive resource from NC State. Click below to explore! Bees of NC Bumble bees Are large, fuzzy bees known for their loud, buzzy flight and gentle nature. They live in small colonies, usually in the ground or in tucked‑away spaces, with a single queen and a few hundred workers. Bumble bees are excellent pollinators, especially in cooler weather and low light, visiting many types of wildflowers and crops. While they can sting if threatened, they are generally calm and spend their time foraging for nectar and pollen to support their colony. Hornets Are large, social wasps known for their powerful sting and strong colony defenses. They build paper‑like nests, often high in trees, on buildings, or in sheltered spaces, using chewed wood fibers mixed with saliva. Hornets are predators that hunt other insects, which can help reduce pest populations. However, they can become very aggressive when their nest is disturbed, and their stings are more painful than those of many other wasps, so nests near people should be managed with care.

A Legacy in Flight: The History of the Beekeepers Association of Rowan County The story of the Beekeepers Association of Rowan County (BARC) is one of community, conservation, and a shared passion for the "golden" side of agriculture. Since its inception, the association has served as a hive of knowledge for local enthusiasts and a steadfast advocate for the pollinators that sustain the Rowan County ecosystem. The Founding Era (1996–1997) BARC was established in 1996 by a small, dedicated group of beekeepers and pollinator supporters. In those early days, the association’s roots were as local as they get; the group held its first meetings over plates of North Carolina tradition at the Old Winks Barbecue restaurant. The mission was clear from the start: Support local beekeepers through shared experience. Educate the community on the vital role of honey bees. Promote responsible hive management and local agriculture. Early Leadership and Governance The association’s early success was driven by a core team of officers who laid the groundwork for the club’s future. Around 1997, the leadership team consisted of: President: Bobby Watson, Treasurer: Jim I. James, Program Chairman: Bob Horn, Assistant: Luke Thompson. As the club matured, it moved toward formalizing its operations. On August 7, 2003, BARC officially adopted its first set of bylaws. These foundational documents were signed by the leadership team of that era: Marcel Renn (President), Harold Ella (Secretary), and Walter Masters (Treasurer). A Consistent Community While many organizations fluctuate wildly in size, BARC has maintained a remarkably stable and intimate community. Throughout its history, attendance has consistently hovered between 40 to 60 members. This "small but mighty" approach has allowed the association to remain a welcoming environment where hobbyists and experts alike can swap stories, troubleshoot hive issues, and ensure that the bees of Rowan County continue to thrive. Today, BARC remains just as enthusiastic as that original group that gathered at Old Winks nearly thirty years ago. Secretary Lee Williams secretary@rowanbeekeepers.org Program Chairperson Available programchairperson@rowanbeekeepers.org BARC Officers for 2026 President Mike Williams president@rowanbeekeepers.org (704) 754-6345 Treasurer Conley Myers treasure@rowanbeekeepers.org Vice President Mark Heuser vicepresident@rowanbeekeepers.org Event Coordinator Cat Enos eventchairperson@rowanbeekeepers.org Past President Marcel Renn pastpresident@rowanbeekeepers.org Check out upcoming Speakers/Topics BARC meets on the Second Monday of every month from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM Join us for our monthly meetings, featuring educational presentations, Q&A, and time to connect with other beekeepers. Guests are always welcome, and you do not need to be a member to attend. Light refreshments will be served. Location Trinity Oaks: 820 Klumac Rd, Salisbury, NC 28144. BARC Monthly Meetings Back to Membership

Master the Craft with a Personal Mentor Beekeeping is a journey best shared. Our seasoned mentors provide the steady hand and local wisdom you need to transform curiosity into a thriving, productive apiary. Hands-on hive inspections and practical apiary training Expert troubleshooting for seasonal colony challenges Guidance on local honey flows and winterization tactics Building long-term confidence in sustainable bee management Go Back What a Mentor Does Bridging the gap between book knowledge and hive reality Navigating the unique local Rowan County forage cycles Hands-on mastery of smoke, tools, and frame handling Expert troubleshooting before hive emergencies escalate What to Expect You remain the lead beekeeper and primary decision maker Mentors act as partners and expert second observers Hive health is managed as a collaborative, shared commitment A relationship built on mutual respect for time and effort Ready to Start Your Apiary Journey? Our mentors are dedicated volunteers passionate about bee conservation and education. Sign up today to be matched with a local expert who will guide you through every season. You must read the "Mentor and Mentee Guidelines" prior to requesting a Mentor

Local Bee Supply Companies Rossman Apiaries, LLC/ NC 102 Chestnut St, North Wilkesboro, NC 28659 http://www.gabees.com (336) 990-9273 Miller Bee Supply 496 Yellow Banks Rd, North Wilkesboro, NC 28659 https://millerbeesupply.com (336) 670-2249 Triad Bee Supply 4062 Evergreen Dr, Trinity, NC 27370 https://triadbeesupply.com (336) 475-5137 Beez Needz 3662 Edgar Rd, Sophia, NC. 27350 http://beezneeds.com 336-431-BEEZ (2339) National Bee Supply Companies Midnight Bee Supply http://www.midnightbeesupply.com Bailey Bee Supply http://www.baileybeesupply.com Dadant & Sons https://www.dadant.com Betterbee https://www.betterbee.com Blythewood Bee Company https://blythewoodbeecompany.com Foxhound Bee Company https://www.foxhoundbeecompany.com Hillco https://www.hillco.buzz The Bee Supply https://thebeesupply.com Mann Lake Bee & Ag Supply https://www.mannlakeltd.com Resources NCSBA North Carolina State Beekeepers Association Courses/Bee Schools – NCSBA NCDA&CS Apiary Inspection Services – NCSBA The Certified Honey Producer Program – NCSBA Membership Number Recovery – NCSBA Regulatory Honey and Beekeeping Laws – NCSBA North Carolina Honey Labeling Requirements – NCSBA North Carolina Bee and Honey Act of 1977 Plant Industry - NC Honey and Bee Industry Regulations | NC Agriculture Plants For Honey Bees Plants for Year-round Bee Forage Flowering Plants – NCSBA Whats in Bloom Wildflowers for Bees Best Plants for Honeybees in Western NC Associations American Beekeeping Federation EAS Journal - Eastern Apicultural Society The American Apitherapy Society | Online Apitherapy Resources National Honey Board Publications Current issues of the Agricultural Review | NC Agriculture Preliminary Results from the 2025-2026 US Beekeeping Survey: Honey Bee Colony Loss and Management Yellow Legged Hornet Found In NC and is Close. Go Back

Apply for the Youth Apprentice Program Please complete the application form below. Interested youth must live in Rowan County and be between 10-14 years old. Ensure you include the following information in your submission: youth's name and age, parent/guardian contact details, availability for mentorship and meetings, and a statement of interest and ability to work outdoors with bees. Submission Deadline November 1. Go Back Youth Apprentice Program Application Contact Information Youth applicant name* Age* Parent(s) / guardian(s) name* Street address* City* State* Zip Code* Phone:* Email* Commitments Please Note: Transportation to and from activities is apprentice’s and parent / guardian’s responsibility Commit to attend monthly BARC meetings – 7-9 pm – 2nd Monday of each month at Trinity Oaks – 820 Klumac Road, Salisbury, NC 28144. * Yes No Are you willing to work closely with a BARC mentor beekeeper?* Yes No Applicant Questionnaire Describe some of your interests and activities both inside and outside of school.* What do you know about honey bees & beekeeping and why do you want to become an apprentice beekeeper?* Are you a member of a club (4H, Scouts, FFA, etc.)? Could beekeeping be a project for your club?* Is there anything else you want to share to strengthen your application?* References Please submit names of two references. (1) A teacher / educator and (2) an adult who knows You well but who is not a member of your family. Name (Teacher/Educator)* Position* Daytime Contact Number:* Name (Adult Non-Family)* Position:* Daytime Contact Number:* Submit

Past Speakers Go Back

Invite a Beekeeper to Your Next Event Invite a BARC beekeeper to share the fascinating world of honey bees and pollinators with your group. Our educational presentations spark community engagement and highlight the vital role these species play in supporting local Rowan County agriculture, fostering a deeper connection to our natural environment. Go Back Speaker Request Name of your Event/Group: Event/Group name:* The audience (age and purpose of group/event) for this event/meeting: Audience, Age, Purpose* Enter your event date and time: Fill in Date and Time if known, if not supply details in Additional Information field below. Date of Presentation Time Time : Hours Minutes AM I would like the speaker to focus on the following subject(s) for this event/meeting: Subjects:* Enter Your Contact Information: Name:* Email* Phone:* Address where the event/meeting will take place: Event/Meeting Address: Additional Information: Additional Information: Submit