Applications being accepted for Colorado Beekeeping Mentorship Program

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A comprehensive beekeeping course is being offered at through the Colorado State University (CSU) Extension office starting in January. Colorado Beekeeper Mentorship Program (CBMP) participants can choose either the volunteer track or non-volunteer.

Volunteers assist the county office of CSU Extension to extend research-based information on home and small-scale beekeeping. Colorado Beekeeping Mentors are involved in a wide variety of ways, including assisting with office phone calls and walk-in customers, staffing information booths, writing for local newspapers or electronic media, and (potentially) mentoring youth groups.

Class periods are three hours per day from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Classes are taught by CSU Extension and experienced, professional beekeepers. Class information is focused toward the noncommercial, home beekeeper. Topics include the following:

• CBMP overview.

• Understanding bees and bee management.

• Beekeeping tools, equipment and hive setup.

• Pathogens, pests and parasites of bees.

• Pollinator habitats.

• Pesticides and honeybees.

• Special management problems.

• Mentorship skills.

Participants will have extra reading between classes and will be expected to “report” to their classmates on a topic of their choice from the textbook. This aids in retention of the materials and in developing mentorship and presentation skills. Sign-ups for presentations will be on the first evening of classes.

Participants will also read and report on one scientific article related to beekeeping. This should be from a research-based journal, agriculture research service website or extension-related website.

The trainings will take place at the Extension office at the Archuleta County Fairgrounds on Tuesdays, Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29 and Feb. 5, 12 and 26, 2019, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuition and fees: $300 for the non-volunteer and $120 for the volunteer course; $85 limited income scholarships available upon request. Visit our Facebook page, CSU Extension-Archuleta County, for more information and download an application, or pick one up at the Extension office. Applications are due by Jan. 2.

Youth disaster

preparedness class

The Extension office is offering a disaster preparedness class for youth ages 13-19. This is a comprehensive 21-hour course that educates youth on how to prepare for a disaster and help others in with their planning.

This is a free course, but the youth must commit to the full 21 hours and helping seven families with their communication and disaster planning.

Please call Robin Young for more information. Go to our facebook page, CSU Extension-Archuleta County, and download the application or come by the Extension office to pick one up.

CPR and first aid classes

CPR and first aid certification classes are offered monthly by the CSU Extension office on the second Monday and Wednesday of each month from 6 to 10 p.m. Anyone needing to receive or renew certification can register by calling the Extension office at 264-5931.