Budding Gardeners: Beekeeping

Michael Leach, owner of Bee Friends Farm, will answer your buzzing questions about bees! Learn why bees are important to our food production, discover the many different jobs bees have within the hive, and find out why bees dance. Participants will also explore questions such as: Do all bees sting? How long do bees live? And why are there so many different types of honey? This fun and educational program will introduce children to the fascinating world of honey bees and their important role in our environment. Michael Leach found a passion for bees in 2009 when he started building beehives for other beekeepers, and he was hooked. Four years later, he decided he wanted to share that passion with others and started Bee Friends Farm. A jack of all trades, Michael brings his carpentry and organizational skills to work every day. A strong believer in community engagement, he is heavily involved with the Jacksonville Beekeeping Association, where he leads a hands on mentoring program for new beekeepers. He currently manages the bees for the Ritz Carlton Amelia Island, providing honey bee presentations and honey tastings for group events. The health of his bees comes first, and Michael is always looking for ways to strengthen the hives he manages. While beekeeping is not always easy, it is always rewarding, and he would not trade it for any of his previous professions. Through his work and educational programs, Michael enjoys sharing the fascinating world of bees with people of all ages. Become a member today and get a BIG discount! $5 for #GardenClubJax members | $10 for nonmembers All ticket sales are final and nonrefundable. Register now