Mysteries of bee-keeping revealed

An evening talk to be held at the visitor centre of Shropshire Council’s Severn Valley Country Park on Thursday 15 January 2015 starting at 7.30pm will help answer any questions you may have about keeping bees.

For a number of years, the volunteers at the park have been working to establish a successful apiary using monies raised by the Severn Valley Country Park Supporters Group.  At present, the apiary produces honey which goes on sale during the summer months.

Beekeeping has a positive impact on the environment as honeybees are a key player in pollination.  Beekeeping can ensure that bees are well managed, and are provided with hives and food, which in turn will ensure that fruits, crops, wildflowers, trees and shrubs are all pollinated and able to reproduce.

This is important, as recent reports have highlighted a national decline in bee populations. Changes in agricultural techniques have meant fewer wildflowers in the landscape, meaning many of the bees species are struggling to survive.  It is easy to imagine how other wildlife such as other insects, birds and mammals would all suffer if bees disappeared.

The talk will be given by volunteer Bill Watkins and will be a guide to the questions that should be asked prior to starting to keep bees.  It will be illustrated with pictures of equipment needed, as well as a display of the equipment used onsite by our volunteers. Finding the perfect site for your hive will be explored, along with aspects of personal and public safety in dealing with stings and swarms.

Susie Cornish, Visitor Centre Manager, said;

“The talk is a continuation of the “Winter Talk Series” being held at the park.  Tickets are £4 for adults and £2 for children, and a drink and slice of cake will be included.

Our volunteers are dedicated to providing suitable habitats for a wide range of wildlife across the park.  The work that goes into maintaining the bees is fascinating and the talk will provide a good introduction to keeping bees.”

To book your place, please call 01746 781192.