The College of the Muscogee Nation (CMN) Extension invites the public to experience the fascinating world of honeybees during a free hands-on workshop, Beekeeping 101, happening this Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the CMN campus in Okmulgee.

Held in Room 103 of the Natural Resources Building at 2170 Raven Circle, the event is geared toward aspiring beekeepers, gardeners, hobbyists, farmers and anyone curious about pollinators and their vital role in our ecosystem.

Hosted by the CMN Extension, this interactive five-hour course will cover the foundations of beekeeping, including: • Beekeeping Equipment Essentials – Learn about the tools and gear needed to start your own hive safely and effectively.

• Bee Biology & Behavior Explore how bees function as a colony, communicate and contribute to the environment.

• Setting Up Your First Hive – Discover where to place your hive, how to acquire bees and how to prepare for each season.

• Seasonal Hive Management – Understand the ongoing care required throughout the year to maintain a healthy, productive colony.

• Honey Harvesting Basics – Learn when and how to harvest honey, beeswax and other valuable hive products.

Whether you’re an absolute beginner or someone considering beekeeping as a hobby or small business, this course is the perfect starting point. It’s also ideal for:

• Home gardeners interested in boosting pollination and crop yield.

• Landowners or farmers seeking sustainable agriculture practices.

• Educators and students curious about biology, ecology, or agriculture.

• Community members who want to support pollinator health and conservation.

Attendees are encouraged to bring a notebook and pen for taking notes and to come prepared with questions. It’s an excellent chance to connect with other bee-curious community members and experts in the field.

Pollinators like honeybees play a crucial role in local agriculture and ecosystems. By learning to care for a hive, individuals can make a tangible impact on environmental health, food production, and biodiversity. CMN Extension’s Beekeeping 101 course emphasizes sustainability, respect for native ecosystems, and empowering citizens to support their communities through responsible beekeeping.

Best of all, this workshop is completely free of charge, making it accessible to anyone with a passion for learning and curiosity about nature. Training like this typically comes at a premium, but thanks to the CMN Extension’s outreach efforts, the community has a unique opportunity to get started at no cost.

For more information, visit extension.cmn.edu or call 918-549-2861.