Local Bees is about bringing the local beekeepers story to you. This page will highlight the work and care which local beekeepers have put in to their backyard hives. These families and individuals are supporters of their community diversity, and stewards toward a healthier future for both the honey bee and this city.

"I have no experience bee-keeping, but as it's not very feasable to have pigs in my back yard I went with my second choice. It's quite fascinating so far. Although one or two of my friends are horrifies by the thought of thousands of bees, everyone who has seen them is quite interested also. I think the (home -schooled) neighbours kids already know more about bees than I do and love checking out the hive." Mike, Calgary SW

"I'm a Calgary-based writer, photographer, garden consultant and Master Gardener. I've been gardening for over 30 years and grow both ornamentals and edibles. Hosting a honeybee hive has been a fantastic experience helping me learn more about the plight of the honeybee and bees in general. My neighbours have been incredibly supportive and very curious about the top bar hive often stopping by to ask how the bees are doing. Although, if you host a hive, be prepared to be the new local bee expert as I've been asked to visit neighbours' gardens to identify bees though I'm not an expert on the topic!" Cathie, Calgary SW

"My hive has nearly doubled in size in less than two months. Initially, there were some sad looking bees with varroa symptoms (wind deformations), but this seems to have disappeared. The Queen has been laying on both old and new frames. I haven't seen any drones yet, but there are drone cells around. They have pollinated at least 5 fruit trees next door, so it will be interesting to see if fruit yields are up!" Ryan, Calgary NW 

"Ann has been keeping bees for over 60 years and has kept bees in Calgary for over 25 years. Her traditional Ukrainian community is supportive of her hobby, and even the local perish cares for a hive! The bees help her flourishing garden and add to the community spirit." Ann Calgary, NW