New Beekeeper from Southern IN

[jackert]

Got my first 2 hives in 2014 with the idea that it might be something to keep me occupied as I approach retirement. Well, I had no idea "bugs" could be so fascinating. I've always been a nature lover - all of my neighbors get a free bluebird nest box and milkweed is not a "weed", but a wildflower. In addition, I now am totally intrigued by these little creatures and the challenges of natural beekeeping.

[cao]

Welcome to the forum and to the addiction called beekeeping.

[Maggiesdad]

Welcome to Beemaster!

...so how are they doing this year?!

[Rurification]

Hi neighbor!  Welcome to the forum.   Great people with a lot of experience here.

I'm over in Solsberry - about 20 miles southwest of you.    I'm glad to meet another beek close by.

[indypartridge]

Hello and Welcome!

Are you involved with a local club? There are a number nearby, including one in Bloomington:
http://www.in.gov/dnr/entomolo/files/ep-state-and-local-bee-associations.pdf

[jackert]

Thanks, all!. Maggiesdad, sorry to say my bees didn't fare too well the first winter. I had a lot of workers survive, no queens and no brood. Perhaps I overmanaged them. Started out with 3 new packages this year and so far, they are doing well.

[jackert]

indypartridge, I haven't joined a club yet, but thanks for the link. I think it's a good idea.

[GSF]

Welcome