Enhancing Beekeeping Knowledge: A Strategic Approach to Educate Beginner Beekeepers and the Next Generation of Apiculturists.
Search for Excellence in Sustainable Agriculture Recognition Program
Luis Rodriguez
Agriculture Extension Agent (Small Farms &; Pesticide Education)
UF/IFAS Extension
Lakeland
Team Members:
Rodriguez, L*1, Bosques, J*2
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Agriculture Extension Agent (Small Farms &; Pesticide Education), UF/IFAS Extension, Polk County , Lakeland, Florida, 33809
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Agriculture Agent & CED, UF/IFAS Extension Hardee County, Wauchula, Florida, 33873
Abstract
Situation: Florida is home to over 5,000 registered beekeepers managing 700,000 colonies, producing 10-20 million pounds of honey annually. This industry contributes over $1 billion to agriculture through pollination services. As interest in beekeeping grows, many individuals are eager to get involved but often lack the knowledge to properly manage honey bees. UF/IFAS Extension aims to bridge this gap by offering educational materials and promoting best management practices through interactive workshops and events, including bilingual content to serve Florida’s diverse population, with 30% of residents speaking Spanish. Methods: In Polk and Hardee Counties, agricultural agents organized and evaluated beginner beekeeping workshops and youth camps to enhance beekeeping knowledge. These workshops incorporated interactive lectures, hands-on hive inspections, and observation hives to teach bee biology and management practices. Additionally, bilingual outreach efforts, including social media content like videos, blog posts, and podcasts, helped reach a wider audience. Beekeeping topics were also integrated into grassroots events to raise awareness of honey bees' critical role in agriculture. Results: Workshop surveyed participants (n = 159 out of 190) reported, a 66% increase in knowledge about Florida’s beekeeping laws, 54% in honey bee biology, 63% in pests and diseases, and 63% in starting as a beekeeper. Furthermore, 68% of surveyed participants adopted best practices, including proper bee nutrition, hive management, and pest management, while registering their bees with FDACS. Between 2022 and 2024, 6,923 fourth graders participated in grassroots events, and 90% of teachers reported an increase in students' awareness of honey bee importance. Youth camp participants also demonstrated a 32% increase in bee biology knowledge and a 36% improvement in understanding beekeeping tools. The blog posts and videos, which garnered 4,896 views, helped participants make informed decisions about beekeeping. Conclusion: Overall, the program has increased knowledge and led to better beekeeping practices in Florida, which may ultimately improve productivity and the economic value of beekeeping operations. It has also raised awareness of honey bees’ role in agriculture, fostering support for the industry and encouraging future generations to engage with beekeeping.
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