There are some photos of the morning later in the newsletter – a huge thank you to Sophie for being so generous with time and knowledge. I can’t wait to see how KBKA’s wax exhibits fare next year. But until then…..
Looking forward to seeing who will lift the trophy this year.
Welcome in the New Year with a social gathering where Jeremy Percy will demonstrate the oxalic acid trickle treatment for varroa mite for those considering this method of control. Bring along mince pies, cakes and a flask of mulled wine.
As we are already meeting at the apiary on 1st January, this month’s club night will be virtual with a Zoom talk by Ben Woodcock from the Honey Monitoring Scheme. Ben will be discussing the impact of pesticides on honeybees and other pollinators. A link will follow in the January newsletter.
If you are studying for one of the BBKA modules you may be interested to know that past examination papers are now available for members to download, free of charge, from the BBKA Online Learning platform. Please click this link for details. https://learning.bbka.org.uk/login/index.php
As featured in the November newsletter, plans have now moved to the next stage. If interested in being part of this valuable initiative please contact
Winter is a time to be looking up for nests which are easier to see whilst trees are bare of foliage. Please see the last page of the newsletter for guidance of what to look for.
It is again time to update your BeeBase records with the total number of overwintering hives as of 1st November 2024. To complete this year’s hive count please click the link below which will take you to BeeBase. Once logged in, please answer the hive count questions displayed and then click the ‘Submit response’ button. It is as simple as that! Please update your records by 31st December 2024. If you currently have no colonies, please update your BeeBase record to confirm this in question 1. Please click this link to update your Hive Count.
https://www.nationalbeeunit.com/hive-count/
We have been asked to spread the word about this appeal which was presented on Sunday 24th November by Monty Don, Patron of Bees Abroad, when he talked about how Bees for Development have been working with farmers in Ethiopia, showing them how creating bee-friendly habitats on their farms can boost their income. If you feed drawn to support with a donation please see BBC Radio 4 – Radio 4 Appeal, Bees for Development All donations up to £10,000 will be matched by one of their generous donors.
#R4Appeal #BBCRadio4 #BBCRadio4Appeal #MontyDon #beesfordevelopment
And finally, some photos from the Wax Masterclass last weekend.
On behalf of the Committee, wishing all members a Very Happy Christmas – hope to see you at either the Skittles night or on New Year’s Day at the Apiary.
Sonia Meadows
Chair, Kennet Beekeepers Association
