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Free events hosted by NC Co-Op Extension 

 

COLUMBUS—Beekeeping enthusiasts in the area have a unique opportunity to learn from an expert in the field this April. Lewis Cauble, the apiary inspector for the western region of the North Carolina Department of Agriculture, will present a seminar on Thursday, April 4, titled “The 3-Legged Stool of Beekeeping: Managing Mites, Queen Events, and Feeding.” The seminar will be held at the Polk County Extension office, located at 79 Carmel Lane in Columbus. 

As an apiary inspector, Cauble is responsible for ensuring the health of bee colonies within his jurisdiction. He inspects apiaries, monitors bee behavior and implements preventive measures to ensure the well-being of bee populations. He is also on the lookout for new invasive and dangerous pests in the honey bee industry. 

Beekeeping has been an important industry in North Carolina for over four centuries, and the honeybee was named the state insect in 1973. Currently, around 10,000 beekeepers in the state and local beekeepers will have the opportunity to learn from Cauble’s expertise. 

Separately, the field day event on Saturday, April 6, will be held from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Rafael Bravo’s Farm on Peniel Rd. in Columbus. It will provide excellent learning opportunities for new and veteran beekeepers. 

Those interested in attending the seminar and field day should pre-register by completing a form at polk.ces.ncsu.edu. For more information, contact Cassie LeMaster at cassie_lemaster@ncsu.edu or by phone at (828) 894-8218.