Beekeeping Course 2026
Beginner through Intermediate
Service Description
See Full Course Details In Images Below Course Summary: This is not ‘only’ an introductory course - it is what you NEED to know to be successful keeping bees in a wet-coast climate. Science Base Beekeeping Methodology This course is a blended Zoom and hands-on learning program designed specifically for West Coast beekeepers and new-bee(ies). Taught by Master Beekeeper Deborah Acheson (BCHPA-certified instructor) and Clea Adair (BEd, MA), the program teaches the science and practice of beekeeping in a supportive, practical environment. An optional glamping or tiny house stay on-farm is available during our intensive weekend in May. We provide support throughout your first season to help you feel confident and bee successful! - 4 prerecorded zooms you can watch at your leisure and 5 scheduled zoom sessions monthly starting in January. - 2 day intensive class May 29th -30th 2026 at the farm (Friday/Saturday) - International Honey Tasting Event - No food provided - please bring snacks and water bottle - Optional Add-On of nucleus hives to fit your needs (We only sell Bees to Past Students!) - Optional glamping stay- glamping groups get discounts on additional seats in the course Course Textbooks Required Reading: Beekeeping for Dummies by Howland Blackiston. Please order off Amazon and use for your course. We have annotated the 5th Addition Annotated by Deborah Acheson to fit our Westcoast Weather and advancements in science based beekeeping Handouts: A copy of the Honey Bee Diseases and Pests-Canadian Ass. of Professional Apiculturists. Over 10 handouts created by Smith Lake Farm to guide you! Upon Completion Students receive: BCHPA Beginner Beekeeping Certificate Smith Lake Farm Intermediate Beekeeper Certificate Permanent enrollment in the Smith Lake Farm Bee Health Management Plan updates Telephone support throughout your first beekeeping season
Upcoming Sessions
Cancellation Policy
To reschedule Sauna Sessions please notify 48 hours in advance of booking. Smith Lake Farm Sauna Experiences may be rescheduled once per booking. There is a $35 cancellation fee if you if you wish to be refunded Sauna Experiences. All one day events are non refundable - please resell your ticket in one of our Facebook groups. Retreats, multi-day events and courses are refunded at 50% up to 30 days before event and non-refundable within 30 days of the first day of your event.