Overwintering 101 Class

The Overwintering 101 beekeeping class is for individuals who are committed to learning tips and tricks for successfully overwintering beehives in northern climates. We will cover basic information including: Year-round management practices that support overwintering A basic overview of honeybee wintering behaviors Different wintering strategies Feed and insulation recommendations How and when to offer mite treatments Tips for supporting your bees needs leading into winter This class is a great choice if you're a first-year beekeeper, or a seasoned veteran who struggles to overwinter. This class pairs great with our spring Field Day Class and Beginner Basics Class if you're a first-year beekeeper. This class will likely be comprised of an indoor class portion, as well as a field portion. You are responsible for providing your own personal protection; i.e. hat and veil or bee suit depending on your comfort level. We will have these items available for purchase as needed. Cost: $30 per person Class Limit: 30 Date and Time: Saturday, September 19, 11:00am-1:00pm Location: Hansen Honey Farm 3279 U.S. 8 Rhinelander WI 54501 Instructors: Brooke Nikkila-Sommerfeldt and Chris Hansen Class Atmosphere and Accessibility: A casual, laid-back setting, this class will likely have an indoor portion with chairs and tables, as well as an outdoor field portion. Building is one level and wheelchair accessible. Outdoor terrain is mostly flat, but there may be slight inclines, gravel, and uneven ground. We can provide an ASL Interpreter for free upon request for in-class portion. Feel free to bring any overwintering questions you may want answered and we will take them all into consideration (Chris loves to talk!) We will have catalogs and a variety of informational pamphlets and resources available for free at the class. Additional Info: In the event of a cancellation or change in timing, you will be notified via phone call and/or email. After you purchase your spot in the class, you will receive a confirmation email. You do not need to reply, but please mark your calendar. Class is non-refundable. If you have any additional questions, please call 715-369-0383 or email sales@hansenhoneyfarm.com Meet Your Instructors: Brooke Nikkila-Sommerfeldt is the Apiary Program Coordinator and State Apiarist for the State of Wisconsin. In these roles, she performs colony inspections, collects bee samples for diagnostic testing, promotes the Wisconsin Pollinator Protection Plan and Beekeeping Best Management Practices, and provides education and outreach to groups throughout the state. Brooke first discovered her interest in bees while doing research at the University of Wisconsin-Stout where she completed her undergraduate degree in Applied Science with a concentration in Biotechnology and spent nine years working at the University of Minnesota Bee Lab/Squad Chris Hansen is a Wisconsin native who's interest in bees dates back to childhood, watching his father and grandfather keep bees. His beekeeping journey officially began in 1998 with two hives, and has grown from there. Over the past 28 years Chris has founded Hansen Honey Farm, opened a beekeeping retail store, and managed over a thousand colonies. He has become recognized as a national expert in transporting honeybees, completed a Journeyman Level Beekeeping Course, and most recently began manufacturing wooden beekeeping equipment. Chris is passionate about educating people on how to keep their bees safe and healthy, and understanding the importance of beekeeping.