Webinar: Introduction to Organic Beekeeping

During this workshop, Luc will discuss his transition from Industrial to Organic beekeeping practices. You will learn about the role of workers, drones, and queen bees in the honeybee colony. Luc will discuss the tools, time, and costs required for beekeeping, Ontario beekeeping regulations, including the Ontario Bees Act and the Apiary Inspection program, and best practices for Organic beekeeping methods. You’ll also learn about the yearly cycle of a honeybee colony, the responsibilities of a beekeeper over the course of a season, and the major problems facing honeybees in the industry today. In particular, you’ll learn about the major pests, diseases, and problems affecting honeybee health – and how to treat them. Finally, there will be time to ask questions and discuss best practices in beekeeping today.

Luc Peters: Humble Bee Inc was founded by Luc Peters in 2013. They are primarily urban beekeepers, managing hundreds of hives at over 30 locations in the greater Hamilton area, including the Royal Botanical Gardens, Hamilton Port Authority, McMaster University and roof top hives at the Cotton Factory. In addition to their Hamilton business, Humble Bee also manages hives for the Toronto Beekeeper’s Collective at the Fairmont Royal York, Ontario Science Centre, Black Creek Community Farm, and Downsview Federal Park. Humble Bee’s philosophy is to put the needs of the bees first, with the understanding that maintaining healthy, thriving colonies is in the best interests of both the bees and the beekeeper. Our colonies are managed without the use of antibiotics or synthetic miticides, and they select for gentle, disease-resistant and hygienic stock.