OurJanuary meeeting will take place on Tuesday, January 27, 2025
7-9 pm
We will meet in Bristol Aggie - Student Commons
(download map)
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Join us for our next meeting as our member, Tim Cummings, leads a talk on
"What to Consider When Expanding Your Beekeeping Operation"
Expanding your beekeeping operation by adding hives to your existing apiary(s) or adding a new apiary, is a thrilling milestone that reflects the success of your beekeeping journey, but it also introduces new layers of responsibility. It is important to understand what to consider when expanding your operation.
1. Space and Location
- Neighbors
- State guidance and any municipal/local restrictions
2. Physical Characteristics
3. Forage Resources
4. Time and Labor Commitment
- Colony health monitoring
- Travel between apiaries
- Equipment maintenance and apiary upkeep
5. Cost - Budgeting for both expected and surprise expenses will help ensure a smooth expansion
- Obtaining additional bees
- New hive equipment (for all seasons) and tools
- Additional honey harvesting equipment and supplies
When approached with care and preparation, growing your apiary can yield healthier bees, more abundant honey, and a stronger connection to your environment.
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ABOUT OUR SPEAKER:
Tim Cummings – Master Beekeeper & Community Mentor
Tim Cummings is a Cornell University Certified Master Beekeeper with over 11 years of hands-on experience in apiculture. Based in Dartmouth, Massachusetts, Tim’s journey into beekeeping began in 2015 when he enrolled in the Bristol County Beekeepers Association (BrCBA) Beginner’s Beekeeping class and joined the local Bee Club. His passion quickly evolved into a lifelong commitment to the craft.
In the Spring 2015, Tim established his first hives and has since maintained a thriving beekeeping practice. He has managed up to three apiaries comprised of 18 active hives and has harvested more than 5,000 pounds of honey as a dedicated hobbyist.
Tim serves on the Board of Directors for BrCBA and actively mentors aspiring beekeepers in Dartmouth and Westport, sharing his knowledge and fostering growth in the local beekeeping community. His affiliations include:
Bristol County Beekeepers Association (BrCBA)
Massachusetts Beekeepers Association (MASSBEE)
Cornell University Master Beekeeping Student Group
Eastern Apiary Society (EAS)
Tim’s commitment to sustainable beekeeping and community education continues to make a meaningful impact across southeastern Massachusetts.
Bristol County Beekeepers Association