The best way to get to know other beekeepers in your area, and to increase your knowledge about beekeeping, is to get involved in a local beekeeper association. Local associations sponsor a monthly meeting, open-hive sessions, educational events, and guest speakers.

Each Association meets monthly and serves their region. The South Carolina Beekeepers Association is governed by a Board of Directors that meet regularly to make decisions that guide SCBA forward in beekeeping and honey bee education.

Beginner Beekeeping Classes are being scheduled around the state. Look below for a club near you to sign up for a class. Classes can begin as early as January to Late March with a few club offering classes in the fall. Each beginning course will be on average 12-18 hours of instructions by qualified instructors.

The beginner beekeeping class will teach you everything that you need to know for the first year. We recommend that you request a mentor to help guide you each month. At the end of your first year of beekeeping, you will be eligible to test for SC State Certification in Beekeeping from the SC Master Beekeeper Program.