|
By Sharon Christ
West Central Beekeeping was formed in May 2008 with only 16 members.
It has now grown to 49 members.
Through a co-operative effort of members and officers, WCBA has secured grant funding from the WV Dept. of Agriculture, as well as The Little Kanawha Community Action Grant Foundation.
Those resources have been utilized by WCBA to present two Beekeeping Classes to members and area residents.
Through their cooperative efforts, by the Spring 2010 bee season, members will have introduced 65 new colonies of bees to the region.
The group has provided, through cost sharing, 13 new wood hive bodies.
A new grant through the WV Dept. of Agriculture will further assist local West Virginia Beekeeping Association members to purchase more bees this Spring through WV only certified producers.
Each meeting there is an educational speaker, with refreshments.
There are hands-on demonstrations in handling bees and treating their health needs.
Meetings generally alternate between the Roane County Library and the West Fork Community Building, with some held at the Calhoun County Library. The group expresses thanks to those sponsors for providing meeting space.
Anyone interested in keeping bees or just learning more about their importance, the WCBA is A place to start.
Brandy Brabham, WVU Extension Agent, has played a big part in getting the organization off the ground, as well as providing video equipment and other support.
For more information, call:
Sharon Christ 304-927-1775
Dale Cunningham 304-354-6916
Brandy Brabham 304-927-0975
| 
