I feel the the Master Beekeeper title is one that needs to be earned and proven. Here in WA State, we have a very demanding program. The Apprentice level is easy and pretty much anyone can do it, the Journeyman level has more requirements and the Master level is VERY demanding. Few make it through to the master level and everyone whom I have met has shown a huge knowledge base and a willingness to share that knowledge with other beekeepers in their area.
 I disagree with the statement that only commercial beekeepers who earn their living from bees qualify for the title. In our area I have had the fortune to meet many beeks that have kept bees as a hobby for next to forever and have taken to bees as their main focus as a retirement hobby. They are great sources of information to the beekeeping community. I think that the value of a true Master beekeeper around is to disseminate information to others.
Dave Neel



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