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Of the 20,000 bee species in the world, only a dozen produce honey. One of those, the Western Honey Bee (apis mellifera), is the insect relied upon by commercial agriculture to pollinate more than 100 crops. But honey bees are also managed by non-commercial, hobbyist beekeepers. This program will introduce participants to honey bees, a local beekeeper, and how sustainable beekeeping practices support a healthy quality of life for us all. Participants will also learn ways to cooperate with honey bees and the 200 species of native bees in Montgomery County.

Member and volunteer Maureen Jais-Mick has lived in the Edgemoor neighborhood since 1976 and kept bees there since 2013. She manages the teaching apiary of the Montgomery County Beekeepers Association and also coordinates beginning beekeeping classes for the club. She is a practitioner of non-chemical, organic practices in beekeeping.

Access to the apiary requires climbing 7 steps and standing for a period of time next to bee hives. A waiver will be signed by each participant acknowledging the presence of stinging insects and the possibility of being stung. A face veil and nitrile gloves will be provided for each participant. Participants are required to wear long sleeves, long pants (not tights or yoga pants), and closed toe footwear. No exceptions. The Apiary entails being in close contact with honey bees and bee hives. The possibility of being stung
by a honey bee is high. RSVP required and space is limited to the number of veils available. Limited street parking available - permit restrictions have been lifted for this event.