If you’re planning to start beekeeping in 2026, or if you’re just curious about what’s inside those bee boxes (besides the bees), then mark your calendar for this Saturday’s beekeeping class, Head Start for Beginners.  Brownwood beekeeper Daniel Graham has been giving the class for the past several years, and he says interest is as strong as ever.

Graham says that “Beekeeping kits make a great Christmas gift, but it really helps to know what items are essential to get started, and what you can wait to get later.  My goal is make that clear, so folks don’t get overwhelmed when they start shopping for their supplies.”

Beekeeping Head Start for Beginners is scheduled for Sat Dec. 6, at 2:30 pm.   Topics include an equipment checklist, a survey of the structure and function of the Langstroth (standard American) hive, and overviews of bee behavior, basic safety, and Colony Collapse Disorder.

The class will be outdoors, at Bettie Coggin Taber Park, located at Vincent St. and Ave. I in Brownwood, (one block from the Brownwood Dairy Queen on Austin Ave).  For those coming from out of town, this is not the same location as Coggin Park, which is located on Austin Ave. several blocks away.

  Bring your own lawn chair, and dress for the weather.  A handout will be provided, but bring your pen and notebook if you like.  Graham also has a recommendation for those planning to attend.  “Most people who come to the class already have at least one book about beekeeping, but often they haven’t read it.  If you have a book, start reading it now.”

Pre-registration is required.  To pre-register, call 325-641-9029 (land line—no text messages) or email [email protected].  The class fee is $30 per person, cash or check only, and children 12 or under may attend for free.  Pay at the class.   The class runs about 1 ½ hours.