Learn the age-old practice of beekeeping on the beautiful grounds of the Sands Point Preserve. Master beekeeper, Dr. Patrick J Gannon and his associates - Dr. Nancy Kheck and student apprentices from Hofstra North Shore – LIJ School of Medicine - in partnership with the Friends of the Sands Point Preserve’s Executive Director and Apiary Manager, Jean-Marie Posner, will hold the final session for the season on Saturday, July 20, 2013, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
The Honey Harvest session involves interactive discussion, demonstration of key methods, and a brief lecture that address a range of seminal topics: from honeybee biology and behavior, through hive and colony setup, to management, harvesting and utilizing products of the hive.
Following the discussion session, participants will visit the Preserve’s bee apiary for the demonstration component. All participants will observe and experience how to safely manage a honeybee colony. A minimum of three experienced beekeepers will be present at all times.
No previous experience is required, but participants should be old enough to read the course materials so that they can be engaged in the sessions. The program is recommended for eight-year-olds and up for hive hands-on activities.
The cost for this unique training experience is free. The Preserve’s daily $10 parking fee will apply to each session – free for Annual Pass holders.
Friends of the Sands Point Preserve recognizes Eagle Scout Gerard DeAngelis for his outstanding contribution to the honeybee apiary area of the Preserve. Visitors to the apiary will find his special project: a beautifully designed and constructed information kiosk that provides educational materials and seasonal news about the beehives. Near the kiosk, Gerard also installed a bench for viewing the apiary, so visitors can comfortably observe the fascinating behaviors of our very busy bee colonies. Thank you, Gerard!
