Advanced Beekeeping Classes 2026

Join Master Beekeeper Christopher Kelly of Promise Land Apiaries for a comprehensive short course designed specifically for continuing beekeepers. Drawing on over 53 years of sustainable, science-based expertise, Chris will guide you through the essential steps to establishing a healthy, thriving colony. Get ready to dive into more nuance of the craft, and come ready to learn!

This series moves beyond the textbooks to provide practical, hands-on guidance. During the course of the series, Chris will cover vital topics including:

• Varroa Management: Learn effective treatment methods, how to assess the presence of varroa, and how to test for the mite.

• Disease Identification: Learn about brood diseases and nutritional deficiencies that can occur in your hive.

• Overwintering strategies: Learn how to assess colony abundance, proper hive management, and site management.

• Hive Increase Decisions: Learn how to perform splits, swarm collection logistics, and purchasing more hives.

• Planning for Success: Creating your personalized beekeeping calendar for this year & learning adequate record keeping to help you as the seasons change.

This course is ideal for beekeepers committed to natural, survivor-stock methods. You will leave with the knowledge to make informed decisions and a clear roadmap for the season. This series is part lecture based, part field based. Students should feel free to bring a non-electronic device to take notes on, and should come prepared to class with adequate attire for the weather.

Course Details:

Location:

Breeze Hill Farms

31215 County Road - Route 48

Peconic, NY 11958

Dates:

January 11, 25

February 8, 22

March 1, 15

Time:

11am – 12pm

Format:

Each class includes a lecture at Breeze Hill Farms.

You must register - seating is limited.

CLASS EXPECTATIONS

In this course, you will get out of it as much as you put in.

Master Beekeeper Christopher Kelly will share what he knows from over 45 years of experience and looks forward to you pestering him with questions, actively listening and participating in his demonstrations during some hands-on portions in class.

Bonuses:

• Online access to our newly created Advanced Beekeeping Group (it's the first time we are using this forum, so feel free to make suggestions along the way, but it will only bee as great as you make it!)

• Advanced notification about our upcoming classes, workshops and events on Master Beekeeper Christopher Kelly's schedule.