ROCKINGHAM — The buzz was all about bees at the Leath Memorial Library on Wednesday, where the Richmond County Beekeepers hosted two sessions aimed at educating the public about honey bees and their role in the environment.
The program also gave children a chance to view a mobile bee hive the beekeepers brought and try on beekeeper suits.
“We did this program last year and had a great time. We’re trying to get more people with bees in order to help them,” said Ruth Andrews, president of the Richmond County Beekeepers.
Andrews said the goal is for attendees to leave with a better understanding and appreciation of bees.
“I hope attendees realize that these bees are good for us and our environment, and hopefully aren’t as scared of bees. I think there’s a stigma about being stung, but with the proper equipment, jackets and protection, we can be around the bees,” Andrews said.
She added, “Bees pollinate a third of the food that we eat, so they’re important to us. Hopefully with these presentations, the kids and even the adults will become more interested in bees and wish to learn a little bit more about them.”
Andrews said the Richmond County Beekeepers have been working to expand community outreach, including hosting field days several times a year.
“Our club has been around for over 50 years. I believe we are one of the oldest beekeeping clubs in North Carolina,” she said.
Beyond educational programs, Andrews said the group also welcomes community involvement through its monthly meetings, held the fourth Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Extension Center at 123 Caroline St. At the upcoming June 23 meeting, North Carolina State Apiary Inspector Shirley Harris will speak.
Community members can also follow the Richmond County Beekeepers on Facebook for updates on events and activities.
Andrews expressed gratitude to the Leath Memorial Library for hosting the honey bee program for a second consecutive year.
“I’m so thankful that the library let us do this. This is the second year we’ve done it, so I’m very thankful that the community is getting involved.”