About Us
The
New Forest Beekeepers' Association represents the interests of
beekeepers and beekeeping in the the New Forest and surrounding area.
We are one of the largest beekeeping associations in England and we are
affiliated to the Hampshire Beekeepers' Association and the British Beekeepers' Association.
The
New Forest Beekeepers' Association serves those in the New Forest and
surrounding area who are experienced beekeepers, beginners who want to
start beekeeping and need instruction, and anyone who wishes to be
associated with bees and beekeeping in the New Forest area, including
members of neighbouring Beekeeping Associations.
The
New Forest Beekeepers' Association is run by enthusiastic beekeepers.
We hold introductory beekeeping courses, practical beekeeping sessions,
apiary visits and have a programme of talks and social events throughout
the year. We also have some beekeeping equipment (eg. honey extractors)
which is available for loan to members.
The
New Forest Beekeepers' Association is committed to educating the public
about bees and to improving the beekeeping skills of individual
beekeepers. Much of our public contact occurs at the New Forest Show,
which takes place at the end of July each year at New Park,
Brockenhurst, where visitors may experience live bees, meet beekeepers
and see a wide range of bee related displays and products in an
enjoyable and friendly atmosphere. We also have a mobile observation
hive, purchased with the aid of a grant from the New Forest National Park Authority, which is used in support of our educational work in schools and at other venues.
Our bees have a wide range of forage as
the New Forest contains a rich variety of trees and flowers, including
heather, which is claimed by many to produce the best tasting honey.
This, and our milder weather, means that the beekeeping season is longer
and often more productive than in other parts of the country.