Beekeeping in Alaska

Join Jack Anderson, a seasoned beekeeper and owner of Bee Hive Alaska (formerly Alaska Bee Wrangler), for an insightful presentation on the fascinating world of beekeeping in the Last Frontier. With roots in Oregon where he first captured a swarm as a high schooler, Jack has honed his craft over decades, adapting to Alaska's unique challenges since the 1990s. Today, his passion has grown into a thriving operation: each April, he transports 16 to 18 million bees from California to Washington, then air freights them to Anchorage to kick off the season. As a key member of the Southcentral Alaska Beekeepers Association (SABA), Jack manages the co-op honey booth at the Alaska State Fair, sharing the sweet rewards of local hives with the community.

In this talk, Jack will share his journey from teenage hobbyist to expert apiarist, offering tips on starting and maintaining bees in Alaska's harsh climate, the logistics of bee importation, wintering strategies, and the joys of harvesting fresh honey. Whether you're a curious beginner or an experienced keeper, come buzz with ideas and questions—Jack also teaches beginner classes and sells equipment locally. Don't miss this hive of knowledge!