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Bee Joy provides intimate learning experiences through in-person classes and private coaching for individuals & small groups. Rooted in a natural, organic approach to beekeeping, informed by science, Grai's classes support the unique experience of tending bees - engaging all of your senses, enlivening your intellect, and connecting you to the nurturing of nature. A two-day winter class is a great way to begin the journey of beekeeping, or advance your knowledge if already tending bees. Seasonal beekeeping classes & hands-on workshops are held in New Paltz. Private beekeeping coaching in the Hudson Valley and New York City is available upon request.

Engaged Beekeeping: Beginning Your Journey with Organic Beekeeping

Engaged Beekeeping: Beginning Your Journey with Organic Beekeeping

$225

TBA

Winter is the time to focus on learning, and ordering equipment and bees. This two-day winter weekend class provides a foundation for a beekeeping practice that is both intelligent and passionate. Practical and scientific knowledge will be explored, as will a philosophical-spiritual approach, that will enhance your connection to Honey bees, and create a foundation for engaged beekeeping. Becoming a beekeeper is a fascinating experience that changes your relationship with the world around you.


Topics to be covered:

The superorganism of the colony

Honey bee / Human nurturing

Basic Honey bee biology

Communications in the hive

Beekeeping equipment choices

Obtaining bees

Styles of hives

Siting a hive

Bear fences

Seasonal management

Diseases and pests

The awe of beekeeping

Circle Creative Collective

62 Plains Rd, New Paltz, NY 12561, USA

Preparing for the Fall/Winter Seasons

Preparing for the Fall/Winter Seasons

$60

August dates TBA

Understanding the dynamics of the season is invaluable for developing good hive tending practices, including the biological needs and changes of the bees in the hive.

Bee Joy Apiary

540 Springtown Rd, New Paltz, NY 12561, USA

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Grai St. Clair Rice offers Beekeeping Classes & Coaching in NYC and Hudson Valley

I consider beekeeping a journey that can engage the intellect and the spirit.  My work with teaching and writing is focused on planting seeds of knowledge and appreciation, which expand concepts of the world around us.  A foundation of practical and scientific knowledge is balanced with the unique experience of engaging with a colony of Honey bees.


There are layers of experience in a heightened relationship with nature, with many avenues of interest.  An intimacy develops once the fumbling newness begins to recede and our learned fear dissipates. A relationship with Honey bees also offers us grounding in the moment.  The exhilaration of awe has its own rewards.

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