Thank you to our Past Board Members 

The Virginia State Beekeepers Association would like to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to the remarkable individuals who have dedicated their time, expertise, and passion to serve as board members of the VSBA. Their unwavering commitment has played a pivotal role in advancing the goals and mission of our organization.

Our past board members, President Carla Park, 2nd Vice President Nate Muller and Secretary Michael Forbes have put in tireless efforts, serving in leadership of VSBA. They have not only inspired others but have also made a lasting impact on our association. 

It is often said that a successful organization is built upon the foundation of dedicated individuals who volunteer their time and energy to make a difference. Our past board members have exemplified this spirit, and their contributions have been instrumental in the growth and success of the Virginia State Beekeepers Association.

As they transition into different roles or step down from the board, we want to acknowledge their sacrifices, hard work, and the countless hours they have devoted to the betterment of our beekeeping community. Their legacy will continue to inspire us, reminding us of the importance of collaboration, education, and advocacy in preserving and protecting our precious pollinators.

To our outgoing board members, we extend our heartfelt thanks for your invaluable service and dedication. You have left an indelible mark on our organization, and your contributions will continue to benefit beekeepers across Virginia for years to come.

Welcome to our New Board

We are delighted to introduce and extend a warm welcome to the newest additions to our board at the Virginia State Beekeepers Association:

President: William Gartner
1st Vice President: Gregory Gonzales
2nd Vice President: Svetlana Huntley
Secretary: Justin Ruger
Treasurer: Scott Poling

These individuals bring with them a wealth of knowledge, passion, and dedication to the world of beekeeping. Their diverse backgrounds and experiences will undoubtedly enrich our organization and contribute to its continued growth and success.

As an association, we recognize that our strength lies in the collaborative efforts of our members. Together, we are committed to advancing beekeeping practices, promoting environmental conservation, and educating the public.

To our new board members, we express our heartfelt gratitude for stepping up to serve our community. Your contributions will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of beekeeping in Virginia.

To our existing members, we encourage you to reach out and extend a warm welcome to our new board members. Let's work together to achieve our shared goals and make a positive impact on the world of beekeeping.

Stay tuned for updates and initiatives that our new board members will be spearheading. The Virginia State Beekeepers Association is poised for an exciting future, and we are thrilled to have you as part of this journey.

Our Mission

The Virginia State Beekeepers Association is dedicated to promoting and preserving the art and science of beekeeping in the state of Virginia.

Our mission is to:

• Provide effective solutions to the common apiculture problems faced by the members of the Association.
• Promote the education and adoption of sustainable and productive beekeeping methods throughout the state.
• Advance both the scientific and practical aspects of apiculture.
• Cultivate positive relationships with individuals, businesses, and organizations that share a mutual interest in apiculture.
• Organize events and activities that foster positive relations between Virginia beekeepers and the general public.
• Encourage the utilization of hive products.

Twice a year VSBA conducts its biannual meetings consisting of lectures, workshops, vendor displays, Master Beekeeper examinations, and business meetings. VSBA sponsors awards and grants to honey bee researchers and graduate students; and offers a scholarship program for undergraduate students.

Volunteers are the heart and soul of our organization from our board members leading the charge to serve our membership to our conference committee and host clubs planning the biannual meetings and committees dedicated to improving how we can best serve our members throughout Virginia. Our Regional Representatives serve the regions of Virginia as the voice from our many local organizations to the state leadership.

We encourage new, experienced, and aspiring beekeepers to join their local organizations not only for educational opportunities but to be a part of growing our community. Learn More

Catch the latest Buzz with the VSBA Newsletter! 

VSBA publishes its newsletter, The Commonwealth Buzz four times a year with a wealth of articles from across the state and beyond.  Articles are submitted by executive leadership, our state apiarist and Virginia Agricultural Extension agents.

The VSBA newsletter serves as one of the main sources of communication to its members. If you have exciting news or events happening in your area of Virginia we encourage our members to contact the newsletter editor to submit articles or events for inclusion in the quarterly newsletter. Learn More

Virginia Master Beekeeper Program

The Virginia Master beekeeper program was developed because of the continuing growth of an interest in beekeeping over the last decade. There is a need for competent beekeepers to provide education and assistance to beginning beekeepers and serve in other capacities in our community as experts in beekeeping. The Master Beekeeper program was developed to certify qualified beekeepers to fill this need.

Anyone with an interest in honeybees is invited to participate in this program. All participants must be a member of Virginia State Beekeepers Association to enroll and continue membership to be identified as a VSBA Master Beekeeper. All of the educational offerings to support the program as well as all of the testing are conducted within Virginia. Apprentice, Journeyman and Master Beekeeper written exams as well as the Master lab testing and face to face interviews are only held during the membership conferences. Exam and Testing times will be announced prior to each membership conference. Learn More

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