Brookland-Lakeview Empowerment Center (BLEC) is preparing to address a critical need by building a honey bee hive garden on its campus in Lexington as growing dangers threaten the existence of honey bees globally.
Michael Brown, who serves as project coordinator for the Community Gardens, Farmers’ Market and Food Promotion Programs at BLEC, is completing a beekeeping training in preparation to implement a plan that will introduce such products as honey and beeswax to the community.
Brown said he enrolled in a training program to learn more about bee biology and behavior, hive management in all seasons, bee diseases and pests, swarming behavior and how to use the beekeeper’s equipment. His fascination with honey bees provided the impetus for him to join the S.C. Mid-State Beekeepers Association and to enroll in its intensive beekeeping course.
“We are very pleased that Mr. Brown is providing the leadership to a concern we cannot overlook,” said Dr. Cindye Richburg Cotton, BLEC executive director. “With his training and passion as an effective bees keeper, I am confident he will be highly successful in this endeavor.”
There is sufficient reason for Brown’s decision to become a beekeeper at BLEC.
“I have always been fascinated by and curious about bees, despite the numerous bees stings I endured during my childhood,” Brown said. “As an avid gardener, I have come to appreciate the indispensable role that bees play in any garden. They are without question, the unsung heroes that pollinate our plants, leading to a bountiful harvest of fruits, vegetables, and flowers. There is something truly remarkable about observing bees and their hives. Their importance cannot be overstated.”
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