New Members Welcome

Cowichan Beekeepers

 Meetings: 3rd Wednesday of every month
January – November (No July meeting)  

Doors Open at 6:15pm

Beginning Beekeepers: 6:30 pm – 6:55pm

Regular Meeting: 7:00 pm   (Zoom: available Regular Meeting time only)
The Hub Community Center
2375 Koksilah Road, Duncan, BC

Membership Application

Please DO this SURVEY now -- 2022-2023 Winter survival rates

Keep your Apiary survival rates and report at the end of March to add to this year's data. (This survey will close by April 15th 2023)
2022-2023 Honeybee Wintering Survey
About Us

Cowichan Beekeepers Society

Founded in 1954, the Cowichan Beekeepers Club celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2014. Originally the club was simply a way for like-minded individuals to connect and share common interests.

NEW MEMBERS WELCOME!

Beekeeping has changed immensely since then. The much-publicized Colony Collapse Disorder has been somewhat overstated by the media. Winter losses have been higher than industry averages, causes are complicated and not well understood. The arrival of the mite Varroa destructor and the many viruses it vectors are widely implicated. Pesticides and fungicides may play a role as does vital habitat loss and poor genetics.

What does it mean to be a beekeeper? More than ever before we need the best up-to-date knowledge and the advice of experienced apiarists. A basic understanding of integrated pest management principles is fundamental to successful beekeeping.

There has never been a more important time to have honeybee colonies in your backyard. Urban habitat is well suited for honeybee forage. Early and late flowering bee-loving plants are especially valuable. Honeybees will pollinate the fruit and vegetables in your garden and increase the production of your orchard trees.

The Cowichan Valley is home to an estimated 200 beekeepers, with most belonging to the club. The club will strive to keep members up to date on best practices and current events to keep the valley’s bee colonies strong and healthy. It matters not whether you have one or two hives or dozens, everyone is welcome to attend our meetings.

Beekeeping is a fascinating, rewarding, and addictive hobby and the Cowichan Valley Beekeepers Club is the place to learn. We have members who have kept bees for decades who love to share their knowledge and anecdotes with “newbies”.

Beekeeper & Apiary Registration

The submitted information will be used for the purpose of administering the Apiculture registration system which complies with the Personal Information Protection Act.

Services

How We Can Help!

queen icon catching swarms

Catching Swarms

Gotta swarm?
Here you can find all the swarm catcher’s help you’ll need.

SWARM CONTACTS

mentors

Want help?
Get in touch with our amazing and knowledgeable mentors.

MENTOR CONTACTS

BEE SUPPLIES

Need supplies?
Find frames, boxes, bees, wax, and supplies all in one place.

SUPPLIERS CONTACTS

Honey Vendors

Out of honey?
Your local golden elixir can be found here by the gallon.

VENDORS CONTACTS

Come Join Our Club!

Get all the latest news, helpful hints, suggestions, educational support, Zoom meetings, and so much more.

Membership

$20 for single and $32 for family.