Summer Field Day 2026 Summary

 

Nearly 40 people showed up for the annual ECIBA summer field day on a mild though slightly humid mid-June Day.  Joseph Klingelhutz opened the event by welcoming everyone and laying out the order of events.  First time attendees were acknowledged and asked about their beekeeping experience or if they were thinking of keeping bees. 

 The silent auction procedures were explained.   People were encouraged to help themselves to the nice variety of snacks anytime through the morning.

Joseph then introduced our guest speaker, Ellen Bell, who talked to the whole group about raising queens, and how her method of using a cell builder works.  

After Ellen's very informative session, there was a break while people took some snacks and put on protective gear.  The group split in two, with half learning how to do grafting with hands-on experience.  Some of the younger attendees in particular got into the process of moving very tiny larva into the cells.  The other half got to view a hive inspection and mite checks.  Some were able to view eggs and a queen for the first time.

The field day ended with closing the silent auction. Many were able to walk away with good bargains on bee gear.

Thanks to all who helped prepare for the day and helped take down tents and put things away after.

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