Beekeeping for Beginners
Waiting List
Spring 2027
Application Deadline
For more information please call us at 819-564-3666 ext. 5
Training Description
Through both theory and practical trainings, these workshops will introduce students to the function of a beehive, the basic tools and equipment needed, seasonal hive management, disease management and honey harvesting.
The theoretical portion of the course will be held at Champlain College. It will cover essential topics such as bee biology, honey producing plants in Quebec, beekeeping equipment and tools, costs, seasonal timelines and duties, integrated pest management, colony operations, honey harvesting, responsible beekeeping practices, and resources for beekeepers.
The practical portion of the course will be conducted in person at the trainer’s apiary in Bishopton or Kingsbury. This interactive, hands-on learning experience will allow you to work directly with the beehive. You will learn about standard hive setup and timing, managing frames and hive equipment, integrated pest management best practices, honey harvest, and seasonal preparations. Throughout the different workshops, you will have the opportunity to engage in activities such as swarm control, monitor honey quality, adding/pulling honey supers, and preparing for winter.
Workshop Cost and Dates
Full Introduction Package (theory and practical, 5 workshops)
Beekeeping Discovery Package (theory and practical, 3 workshops)
Dates
TBD
Please be aware that basic protective gear is required for ALL PRACTICAL portions of the training, including gloves, a veil, or a bee jacket/bee suit. Details about this will be covered in WORKSHOP #1, and it is each student’s responsibility to ensure they have the necessary equipment.
About the Instructor
Sergey Nasonkin, a Physicist with a Master’s in Engineering Physics and an MBA in Finance, worked on radiation dosimetry research at the Jewish General Hospital as part of McGill University’s Medical Physics program. During this time, he realized the importance of lifestyle and prevention in combating diseases. Inspired by visits to organic farms, Sergey established his first hive on a farm in Hinchinbrooke. His hobby quickly evolved into a profession, and by 2014, he was registered with MAPAC as an agricultural producer. By 2016, Sergey had expanded to 8 apiaries and 160 hives. Sergey and his family later relocated to Sherbrooke, where they now maintain 80 hives that winter outdoors in apiaries located in Kingsbury.
