By Andi Anderson
The Heroes to Hives beekeeping program, a partnership between Michigan State University Extension (MSU Extension) and Michigan Food & Farming Systems (MIFFS), is accepting registrations for the 2024 beekeeping season. This unique program is dedicated to supporting veterans, Reservists, Active Duty, National Guard members, and their immediate dependents. Gold Star families and surviving spouses are also eligible to participate.
Registration is available through the MIFFS website at www.HeroesToHives.com and will remain open from November 1, 2023, until February 28, 2024. Those who have previously taken part in the Heroes to Hives program are encouraged to register once again.
Throughout the beekeeping season in 2024, MIFFS will provide educational content via email to eligible participants each month from March to November.
MSU Extension plays a crucial role in this program, creating educational resources and hosting hands-on beekeeping workshops. Michigan residents enrolled in the online Heroes to Hives program will have the opportunity to register for in-hive workshops conducted at MSU sites.
This initiative, in collaboration with several institutions, has been educating veterans and their families about beekeeping since 2017. To further develop the program, MIFFS secured a grant in partnership with MSU Extension, University of Missouri Extension, University of Minnesota’s Bee Veterans program, University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Great Plains Master Beekeeping program, and Michigan Veterans of Foreign Wars. The grant, awarded by the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture, totaled $750,000 and is part of the Enhancing Agricultural Opportunities for Military Veterans Grant.
Join the Heroes to Hives program and explore the fascinating world of beekeeping while receiving invaluable support and education.
Photo Credit: pixabay-myriams-fotos
Categories: Michigan, General