MURPHYSBORO, Ill.- Local residents can learn to “bee prepared” during a free, two-part series to discover the world of bees and beekeeping!

Whether you own bees as a hobby or as a source of extra income, the most important part of beekeeping is keeping your bees happy and healthy! Led by local beekeeper, Mary Brown, this program will be an overview of what a prepared beekeeper needs to get hives established and thriving.

Program topics include hive equipment, hive location, creating a bee-friendly environment and an overview of plants used to encourage foraging bees.

This two-part series will take place on Feb. 1 and Feb. 8. Each Saturday session will begin at 1:00 p.m. at the Jackson County Extension office at 402 Ava Rd., Murphysboro, IL. Attendance at both programs is strongly encouraged.

This program is free to the public but registration is required and seating is limited. To register, visit: https://go.illinois.edu/beeprepared2020 or call Maggie Ray at (618) 687-1727.

University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in programming, contact (618) 687-1727. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting your needs.

News Source: Maggie Ray, 618-687-1727, mro@illinois.edu