Wade Stiltner instructs WCBA members on proper bee care
By Al Darman
Secretary, WCBA
The West Central Beekeepers Association [WCBA] held their monthly meeting on March 28. The meeting was called to order by President Dale Cunningham and the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Al Parsons, was recited by all.
There were 51 members present which included all officers. Four members (2 returning members and 2 new members) were welcomed to the club: Mike Offutt and Rick Magly, returning members; Herbert Andrick and Timothy and Miriam Hopkins, new members.
Cunningham reported the $6000 grant for cost sharing nucs, bee packages, medication, and sugar food was submitted.
Payment was accepted for nucs and bee packages which have been ordered. The nucs will be picked up in May. It was noted that all members ordering a nuc must bring a pick-up hive to the April meeting. The pick-up hive needs to have 4 "foundation in" frames which are secured to the main hive. Also, it was stressed that all openings in the hive must be sealed to prevent bees escaping.
Cunningham also reported the wildflower seeds have been received and will be distributed to members at the next meeting. Approximately one pound of seeds per member will be made available.
The pruning class was held at Dale Cunningham's farm. It was attended by 18 people and all worked out quite well.
By member vote, it was decided to purchase two boxes of foundation wax; one each for deep and medium frames.
Wade Stiltner, the State Apiarist, gave an enlightening and well received discourse on bee hive maintenance and disease identification and prevention.
At 3:00 p.m. the meeting was adjourned; thanks was given by Vern Kerns, and lunch was served.
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