Recommended Reading
The Beekeeper’s Handbook
If you are interested in learning more about keeping bees then this is quite possibly the best and most comprehensive book on the subject available. It is used as one of the main resources for the California Master Beekeeper Progam and has helped countless new beekeepers gain a footing in their newfound hobby. Inside you will find information on:
- Products of the hive
- Pests and diseases
- Managing colonies
- Procuring bees
- Beekeeping equipment
If you only read one book (which is definitely not recommended!) this is the book for you.
Our Native Bees
Did you know there are over 200,000 species of pollinators in the world – including bats, butterflies, and bees. Of those 200,000 species over 20,000 are bees. In California alone, there are over 1,600 species of bees… Some species, like Franklin’s Bumble Bee, have already been lost forever and many others are endangered or threatened.
This explores the role of native pollinators and what they mean for our planet as observed by a lifetime gardener turned citizen scientist.
The photos are incredible.
And it covers many species of bees that would otherwise go unnoticed and introduces us to many of the charismatic and quirky people that are trying to save them. If you enjoy observing wildlife this book will surely heighten your observation skills when walking through a park or relaxing in your garden. After I finished reading this book I began to see bees everywhere!
California Bees and Blooms
Are you an aspiring gardener or beekeeper? Are you a Master Gardener or Beekeeper? Either way, it doesn’t matter because this book is for you.
A deep dive on the relationship between plants and pollinators. Gordon Frankie, a professor at UC Berkeley is arguably the world’s foremost expert on native bees and this book is his opportunity to share his wealth of knowledge with the world.
If you are looking to help native pollinators or want to know what to plant to attract a particular species, then look no further. This book will act as a reference for many years to come and is a must read for anyone who is concerned about the 1,600+ species of native bees in California. We love our honey bees, but they are not native species, and while we believe they can be sustainably kept alongside native pollinators, it is always important to remember the little guy 🙂
Organizations
California Master Beekeeper Program
Join the California Master Beekeeper Program (CAMBP)
The CAMBP is a wonderful program headquartered at UC Davis with a satellite program in San Diego. There are 3 levels of the program and participants should expect it to take 5 years to complete. On top of taking courses and getting hands-on experience, participants are expected to volunteer in their local community teaching beekeeping workshops, collecting swarms, and educating the public. In order to join:
- You must own/manage a minimum of one colony for at least one year prior to testing.
- You must have at least one registered hive where possible (certain counties do not have the ability to provide this service to the beekeepers; this will be confirmed prior to acceptance into the program).
Santa Clara Valley Bee Guild
Become a member of the Santa Clara Valley Bee Guild
- The Santa Clara Valley Beekeepers Guild is a nonprofit organization for beekeepers within the Santa Clara Valley. Members are beekeepers of all levels—from backyard hobbyist to professional apiarists.
- All who are interested in bees and beekeeping can attend free Guild meetings held on the first Monday of each month.
- Mentorship is available for first-time beekeepers!