Beekeeping Basics: Preparing for Bees

Thinking about keeping bees, but not sure where to start? This introductory class is designed for aspiring beekeepers who want to learn how to prepare for their first hive and avoid costly mistakes.

We'll cover how to source bees, select the right equipment, and understand the essential components of a hive. Through hands-on demonstrations, you'll get familiar with common beekeeping tools and learn what you actually need to get started, along with what you can skip.

The class will also discuss the pros and cons of purchasing used equipment, including how pests and diseases can spread through secondhand gear. We'll review common bee health treatments, seasonal considerations, and best practices for setting up your apiary for success.

Participants will receive helpful handouts, regional resources, and guidance on finding bees, equipment, and supplies. Berry Creek Garden will also have beekeeping supplies available for purchase.

Whether you're planning to start a hive this year or simply curious about beekeeping, this class will give you the confidence and knowledge to take the next step.

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A note from instructor and beekeeper, Katelyn Sharpe

I first began working with bees in 2015 on a small-scale vegetable farm in Hood River. My first task? Catching a swarm. I was instantly swooning. From that point on, I took it upon myself to truly learn the trade. I wanted to absorb as much as I possibly could: sitting in on hive inspections, harvesting honey, reading books, attending conferences, and diving into anything bee-related.

In the last five years, I’ve really deepened my practice. I began working for Abbey Road Farm in Carlton, Oregon, where we earned the Bee Friendly Farming Certification and joined the Bee Friendly Wine Grapes Program. I also enrolled in the Master Beekeeper Program at OSU and helped form a local bee club.

The bee community has had a profound impact on me. Beekeepers are some of the best people I know. They show resilience and true devotion during incredibly challenging times. To me, bees and their keepers represent a genuine sense of hope.