SMITHVILLE, Mo. — We hope the answer to that somewhat rhetorical question is “yes” and now is the time to start!
This is the time of year many people ponder on whether to become a beekeeper. There are winter training courses across the State where people can learn how to get started.
Missouri State Beekeepers Association (MSBA) estimate there are over 10,000 beekeepers in Missouri. Most of which are hobbyists. There are nearly 50 local clubs located around the State and all have people willing and able to help you get started.
Beekeeping is animal husbandry that can be considered a “small scale” with a small housing footprint (common Langstroth hive is less than two feet square) and miniature livestock (as defined by the Internal Revenue Service and United States Department of Agriculture). Honey bees take different care than a cat or dog but give many people great pride in owning and caring for them.
If you are looking for local beekeepers in your area, check out the local clubs (https://mostatebeekeepers.org/local-clubs/) map.
The MSBA website offers the latest information on when, where they meet. There is also local club contact information.
If you navigate to the MSBA website, check out the map for a source of local Missouri honey
(https://mostatebeekeepers.org/local-honey-finder/).
Fresh local honey makes a great holiday gift that people can enjoy every day.
If you have any questions, please contact MSBA at: showmethegold@mostatebeekeepers.org.