Beekeeper Training Program 2026

Our Beekeeper Training Program participants learn under the supervision of our beekeeper, Mark Gingrich of Gingrich Apiaries. Over the course of the two year program, participants will work side by side with Mark and other program participants to learn all aspects of keeping bees. At the end of year one, each participant will have the option of receiving a bee colony to be moved to their home property. During the second year, participants will benefit from repetition of some aspects of the program, learn more advanced techniques and troubleshooting while managing their own hive at home.  

This program begins with three in-person classroom sessions in January, February, and March, and then continues through October with hands-on and in-the-field inspections of the several hive stands present at Horn Farm.

 Program Fees:  

$750 ($500 year one, $250 year two) - Payment plan is available. For those wanting a payment plan, a $100 deposit will enroll for you for the course.

Program details/requirements:

*Applicants must not have an allergy to bees (Yes, you will get stung).

*A general understanding and basic knowledge of beekeeping is helpful, but not required. Foundational information will be covered in the classroom sessions.

*Year One participants will be responsible for purchasing their own safety equipment and woodenware (Hives/Boxes). Guidance on what to purchase occurs within the class sessions.

The schedule and content for the program is as follows - sessions occur in-person, rain or shine:

Health and Safety

*Parking for class at at the farm takes place along the field above the farmhouse.

*All programs are subject to change based on unforeseen circumstances including inclement weather. Participants will receive an email and phone call if there are any program changes or cancellations. Thank you for supporting regenerative farming and educational programs at the Horn Farm Center.

*For questions regarding cancellation, please review our Cancellation and Refund Policy.