By Mike Clardy

AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. — The Alabama Cooperative Extension System will host the 30th Annual Alabama Beekeepers Symposium Feb. 1, 2025, at the Clanton Conference and Performing Arts Center at Jefferson State Community College.

This event has grown into a premier gathering of beekeepers and researchers. Year after year it has provided hands-on learning opportunities and expert insights into the latest trends in beekeeping.

“What started in a single classroom at Auburn University 30 years ago has grown into one of the largest events of its kind in the Southeast,” said Jack Rowe, Alabama Extension regional agent and symposium organizer. “Despite the growth, our focus remains the same — providing relevant, science-based information to help beekeepers across the state succeed. Whether you’re a seasoned beekeeper or just starting out, we’re committed to delivering the latest research and practical tools to address the toughest challenges.”

Keynote Speakers
This year’s symposium promises to deliver top-tier educational content, with keynote presentations from two distinguished researchers. Marla Spivak, a MacArthur fellow and distinguished professor in entomology at the University of Minnesota, will speak on honeybee health and pollinator-friendly landscapes.

“As beekeepers, we often marvel at how honeybee colonies, living in such densely populated societies, manage to prevent the spread of disease and parasites,” Spivak said. “In my talk, I will dive into the intricacies of their remarkable health care system and share insights on how we can identify and encourage this natural form of social immunity in our own colonies.”

Frank Rinkevich, a research entomologist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service, will discuss honeybee genetics and the urgent issue of amitraz resistance in the fight against Varroa mites.

“My presentation will highlight five years of research conducted with my collaborators to better understand amitraz resistance in Varroa mites, including its prevalence, levels, genetics and distribution,” Rinkevich said. “I’ll also discuss the latest findings on the origins and evolution of this resistance, new detection methods and practical strategies beekeepers can use right now to manage amitraz-resistant mites and keep their honeybee colonies healthier and more productive.”

Learning Opportunities
The symposium offers four distinct parts, catering to various levels of beekeeping expertise:

Keynote Presentations: Delivered by industry-leading researchers from across the nation.

Breakout Rooms: Focusing on DIY projects and management skills, providing beekeepers with practical tips to enhance their practices.

Master Beekeeper Certification Support: Offering talks aimed at those working toward Master Beekeeper status. Topics range from bee communication to managing anaphylactic reactions.

Beginning Beekeeping Workshop: Led by students from Auburn University’s Bee Lab and beekeeping specialists. This workshop is ideal for those new to the craft.

Additionally, the vendor hall will feature equipment suppliers and vendors offering honeybee products. Artisans will also compete in the annual Honey Show, showcasing the best honey-infused baked goods, craftwork, beverages and more.

More Information
Founded by Professor Emeritus James Tew, a revered figure in the world of beekeeping education, the symposium continues his legacy of science-based, practical beekeeping education. To register or to find more information, visit https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/lawn-garden/alabama-beekeepers-symposium/.