>
> >To financially plan for this I'd really appreciate feedback regarding how
> much start up money is required for such an endeavor (eg, equipment,
> supplies, etc)


Hi Nate,
I'm with Larry in that I recommend starting with two traditional colonies,
and buying at least one zipper suit for tough situations.

I sell equipment and bees to the local beekeepers.  Generally, the cost to
beginners for two colonies complete (double deeps, but no supers), buying
assembled boxes and frames, with full gear for two, and nucs at $90 comes to
about $600-$700 these days.  Of course, you can save considerably by cutting
out this or that, or assembling your own equipment, or catching swarms, but
this figure is normal.

After that, yearly cost is minimal.

Randy Oliver

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