Thursday, Jun 1, 7:00 PM

This is your club, this is your meeting. Get involved, volunteer and let your voice be heard! Club members are welcome to discuss the Club’s business.

The Hanson Clubhouse, MA ~ Map -> 228 High St, Hanson, MA

Wednesday, June 21, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM (In Person)

Wednesday, June 27, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Virtual)

American Foulbrood (AFB), Paenibacillus larvae, is an infectious and contagious bacterial disease of honey bee larvae that has been making a significant and concerning resurgence over the past couple years in Central Massachusetts along both sides of the Connecticut River. Disturbing indications are developing that it is moving eastward. AFB is introduced and spread by spores carried on drifting bees from nearby colonies, infected comb, used equipment, tools, beekeepers, and robbing. As a result, the PCBA is sponsoring a special two-part workshop on AFB.

The first part will be in person on Wednesday, June 21 at 7:00 PM with Apiary Inspector Paul Tessier at the Hanson Clubhouse. Paul will review the biology of the pathogen, visual signs and symptoms and what to do if you suspect AFB, actions you can take to mitigate its spread. All PCBA members and especially mentors are urged to attend.

The second part will be virtual on Tuesday, 27th, at 7:00 pm with Amy Musante of the Northern Berkshire Beekeepers Association. Amy will present on American Foulbrood ABF biology, what to look for and biosecurity. Amy is the founder and beekeeper at Musante Farm Apiaries and Bee Removal Services. She is a broadly trained biologist with expertise in ecology, animal behavior, and evolutionary biology. Amy began her professional career working for the UMASS-Entomology Department in the early 90’s and her passion for biodiversity has fueled over 30 years studying the ecological relationships between organisms and their environments. She has conducted extensive research for academic, government & the private sector. While working as a researcher for the National Museum of Natural History, Amy received the Smithsonian PRIDE (Personal Recognition for Ingenuity, Drive and Excellence) Award. The 2 links to Amy’s presentation are as follows:

7:00 – 8:00 PM – meet.google.com/mjg-ovsq-rno
8:00 – 9:00 PM – meet.google.com/kcb-nxkv-wvj

An AFB resurgence of this magnitude is a serious situation and all members and especially mentors are urged to attend these sessions.

The Hanson Clubhouse, MA ~ Map -> 228 High St, Hanson, MA

Saturday, June 24, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM, Jones River Landing