Bee informed about beekeeping

FILE: Deborah Reed, a local beekeeper, teaches a class on beekeeping at the library in 2017. This year's three-part class instructed by Reed kicks off Tuesday.
FILE: Deborah Reed, a local beekeeper, teaches a class on beekeeping at the library in 2017. This year's three-part class instructed by Reed kicks off Tuesday.

If you've ever wondered "What's all the buzz about beekeeping?" - an upcoming class at the Callaway County Public Library has an answer.

Local longtime beekeeper Deborah Reed is teaching a free, three-part class on beekeeping starting Tuesday. No registration is required, and though participants are encouraged to attend all three classes, that's not mandatory either.

"She's been doing this class for a long time; she has a lot of tips and hints," said Sherry McBride-Brown, adult services librarian at CCPL. "We had it a few years ago and had a wonderful attendance."

Reed will cover the basics of beekeeping, from equipment to troubleshooting, over the course of the classes.

During session one from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, she'll cover setting up the apiary and how to get the equipment you'll need.

The second session is 5:30-6:30 p.m. March 12. The topic is how to get your bees settled in and manage your hive.

The final session is 5:30-6:30 p.m. March 17. Reed will teach attendees how to harvest honey and prepare bees to weather the winter. This class will also feature a sweet treat.

"It's so neat: We'll taste the honey Debbie has from her hives," McBride-Brown said.

She said freshly harvested and filtered honey is surprisingly beautiful.

McBride-Brown added the classes are tailored more to adults, as they feature lots of detailed information. However, teens interested in beekeeping are also welcome to attend.