THOMASTON — Discover the hobby of beekeeping. Learn the basic information needed to get started as a beekeeper through a seven-week course presented by beekeepers from the Knox-Lincoln County Beekeepers (KLCB), the Maine State Beekeepers Association (MSBA), and the Maine’s State Bee Inspector.

This course is designed for first and second year beekeepers.

“Whether you have interest in becoming a backyard beekeeper for your gardening passion, or wish to consider keeping hives for a honey crop, or simply desire to learn more about the fascinating community of honey bees, attending a local bee school program will provide you with a basic foundation to get started in this fascinating and rewarding venture,” according to a news release.

Beekeeping basics, equipment needs, seasonal management, honey bee diseases and pest management are just a few of a wide variety of topics which will be covered during this course in lecture format, power point presentations, and hands on experiences. 

“Not only will you learn about what is needed to care for these incredibly important insects, you will meet other community members who share your interest in beekeeping,” the release said.

Classes are held on consecutive Tuesday evenings from 6 to 8:30 p.m., at the American Legion Hall in Thomaston, beginning on February 26 and ending April 9, 2019.  

Course fee is $60, which includes a textbook, handouts and a pro-rated yearly membership in KLCB.  

Visit www.klcbee.com to register for the 2019 Bee School and the KLCB Association. 

For more information regarding bee school, call Jane Dunstan at 586-6800, or email at rmllamas1@gmail.com