Natural Approaches to Treating Honeybees Talk: 5/21

Chemical treatments for viruses and Varroa mites can have long-term impacts on both honeybees and the environment. In this session, we’ll explore natural alternatives for managing these threats, with a focus on the promising role of fungi and mushrooms, along with other sustainable beekeeping practices.

Mel has been keeping bees in Massachusetts for over twenty years and has been an active member of the Essex County Beekeepers Association (ECBA) during that time, including serving as Chair of the ECBA Bee School in 2015. He currently manages 24 hives across a variety of settings—schools, the Bedford VA Hospital, and Mass Audubon’s Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary—where he also developed a robust beekeeping and education program. His work includes beginner and intermediate bee schools, as well as a mead-making workshop. Mel has extensive experience with non-traditional hive styles and is a strong advocate for natural beekeeping methods. He also mentors a Therapeutic Beekeeping Program for veterans at the Bedford VA, incorporating mindfulness practices to support those dealing with PTSD. In 2017, he was named “Beekeeper of the Year” by the Massachusetts Beekeepers Association.

Watch the presentation here: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83421886442