On Saturday May 23rd, 2026 the Atlantic Tech Transfer Team for Apiculture had the pleasure of joining the New Brunswick Beekeeper’s Association for a hands-on spring workshop in Memramcook. Workshops like this bring new and experienced beekeepers together to learn from each other, ask questions and make new connections.
Review of the NBBA Spring Workshop
The workshop was hosted by Anouk Utzdschneider at her farm,
where participants split into small groups and rotated through different
stations. Anouk took one group through her operation, showing beekeeping
equipment and the supplies used for honey extraction. She highlighted the tools
she values as a small-scale beekeeper, which was a great chance for newer
beekeepers to see what a well-organized, practical, small scale setup looks
like!
Marie-Pier Jones, NBBA board member, walked participants
through a hive assessment, explaining what to look for when evaluating a
colony. She discussed brood patterns, population dynamics, food stores and
signs of a healthy queen. Her demonstration helped beekeepers understand what
to look for in their own colonies and what kind of questions to ask a mentor.
Figure 1: Participants Watching a
Live Demonstration of Creating a Split (ATTTA ©, 2026)
Andrew Byers, ATTTA, also went through a hive and discussed
different ways to monitor for Varroa destructor. He demonstrated how to
perform an ether roll and walked through how to do an alcohol wash; both are effective
techniques for monitoring varroa levels. He highlighted why regular mite checks
are essential, how to collect proper samples, how to interpret the results and
the different monitoring methods available to beekeepers.
To wrap up the workshop, the group had the opportunity to learn how to make a split from an exceptionally strong colony with lots of brood and food stores. Participants learned how to choose frames, balance resources and set the new colony up for success, a valuable skill for new and experienced beekeepers!
Figure 2: Attendees of the NBBA Spring Workshop (ATTTA ©, 2026)
This workshop highlighted the importance of a mentor,
someone who can guide you, answer questions, and help you navigate challenges
that arise in beekeeping. Having an experienced beekeeper to lean on can make a
significant difference in anyone’s beekeeping journey!
A big thank you to the NBBA for hosting such a valuable and
welcoming workshop, and to board members for sharing their experiences and
knowledge!
Written by Kaitlyn
Newton, ATTTA Seasonal Apiculturist
Connecting with
ATTTA Specialists
If you’d like to
connect with ATTTA specialists or learn more about our program, you can:
visit our website
at https://www.perennia.ca/portfolio-items/honey-bees/
Email attta@perennia.ca