Gain confidence in your beekeeping.
For the short version and get on the notification email list, click here
What is a Learning Circle? A learning circle is a group of individuals with a common interest, meeting in an interactive, participatory structure to build and share knowledge toward the same outcome.
For Iowa beekeepers, this would look like a group that meets monthly over zoom and occasionally in-person for extended learning on certain topics. Each meeting is called a learning circle and the facilitator will always be me. People participate as they can, so we may have a different mix of people participating each time. In 2023, the in-person, extended learning topics will be as follows. Click each topic for more information and to sign up.
- splits in April
- grafting (queen rearing) in June
- cutouts tentatively in September
- storytelling in November
The agendae for each month’s online learning circle is partially completed. I expect online learning circles to always include participant introductions, current phenology, and a special topic and occasionally a guest speaker. Click here for topics at online learning circles.
Where will you meet? Online learning circles will meet using Zoom. Locations and descriptions for in-person learning circles are available with the links above.
When will you meet? Online learning circles will meet toward the beginning of every month and in-person learning circles will always take place on a Saturday later in the month. In-person field days will all have an optional carpool, opening refreshments, supplies, and lunch. You will need to let us know if you have dietary restrictions and we will do our best to accommodate.
How much does it cost to participate? Thanks to North Central SARE and the Iowa Farmers Union, there is no cost this year. There will be a deposit for in-person learning circle field days; it will be returned after participation.
Who can join? This project was designed for Iowans and surrounding counties. Any beekeeper is welcome to join and come and go at any time. Registration for in-person learning circles will be capped at 20 or 25 participants depending on the topic and host site.
When do I sign up? People are welcome to join any time during the year. Registration is required for each learning circle and will open up the month prior. Get on the waiting list here