Master Beekeeper Program

The prior Master Beekeeper Program was run through Dr. David Tarpy of North Carolina State University. NCSU and the NC Extension Office provided about $80,000 for this program. With the severe financial cut backs in the NC state budget, the prior Master Beekeeper Program was terminated. Because of the importance of the program to beekeepers, NCSBA agreed to pick up this program. The following document explains how the program will move forward under new management:

For tests, or testing at the Spring or Summer meetings, please contact Greg Clements at 704-489-1242 or .

Participation

Any resident of N.C. with an interest in bees is invited to participate in this program. Non-residents who have an interest in bees may also participate; however, all of the educational offerings in support of the program as well as all of the testing is conducted within North Carolina. At the present time there is no cost to program participants. Check with your local beekeeping group or county Cooperative Extension Service, as well as this site, to see when training programs (short courses) are being offered or attend any of the annual meetings of the N.C. State Beekeepers Assoc. to attend training sessions and take the various tests.

Requirements summary for each level:

Journeyman Beekeeper	A beekeeper who has demonstrated good beekeeping skills and knowledge
a written test a practical test (oral identification of various tools, objects, and pictures relating to honey bee biology and beekeeping) two years of beekeeping experience 5 units of public service credit

Master Beekeeper	A beekeeper who has demonstrated extensive expertise in beekeeping and a number of specialized areas in beekeeping
a written test a practical test (demonstrate excellence in selected beekeeping specialties) 3 years of beekeeping experience 10 units of public service credits

Master Craftsman Beekeeper

The highest level of the program composed of Master Beekeepers who have demonstrated excellence in teaching, public and media interactions, a substantial commitment to beekeepers and beekeeping, and who have passed an oral examination. The Master Craftsman designation is awarded for five year active appointments and then the individual is moved into an emeritus appointment unless recertified by earning an additional 15 units of public service credit and demonstrating that they have kept current on matters affecting bees and beekeeping.

an oral examination (comparable to the oral exam for a student in a Master of Science program at a university)
two years as a Master Beekeeper
present a program at a state bee meeting
demonstrate communication skills
practical test (demonstrate excellence in a minimum of seven required beekeeping specialty areas)
participate in an NCSU sponsored research project
earn 15 units of public service credits
recertification every 5 years to maintain "active" status

North Carolina State Beekeepers Association

The NC Master Beekeeper Program

Participation

Requirements summary for each level:

Congratulations to the current occupants of the highest two levels: