In a message dated 97-01-16 21:08:49 EST,Rebbeca S prawn writes: >I've wanted to keep bees for many years . Could someone please send me some basic information on how to >get started? Rebecca: The Hive and the Honeybee and ABC and XYZ of Beekeeping are two good books. Contact Root or Dadant (call 800 operator for numbers) for catalogues of their equipment and/or books.. There are many other good suppliers too: Brushy Ridge, Walter B. Kelley, Mann Lake, etc. A call to your local country extension agent should result in 1) the name of the contact person for your local beekeeping association 2) the name of a local supplier of beekeeping equipment 3) an enthusiastic beekeeper. The best bit of information I was given by an oldtimer was "Read a book first; then we'll talk." How else was I to learn the meaning of such foreign sounded terms as propolis, Varroa, bee-space, supers, etc? I would clearly have wasted his time by sitting down, cold, to have a talk with him. Attend a few beekeeping meetings and just listen. Read, read, read. Listen to this list. > Where do I get the bees and all the equipment?> See above. >What time of year is best to begin?> RIGHT NOW! >Thank you in advance for your information and suggestions!> No thanks are necessary just spread the work and, in a few years, help others. Faith Andrews Bedford, Ivy VA and Tampa > >