Toolkit-3

Potential Beekeepers and the Public

Guidance for Beekeeping Associations on Communication and Public Engagement
By Roger Patterson

Interest in bees and beekeeping has grown dramatically in the 21st century—fuelled partly by media stories and well-intentioned but often inaccurate messaging. While much of this publicity is outside the control of beekeepers, ignoring it is unwise.

If beekeepers do not provide clear, authoritative information, others will fill the gap—and often with misinformation. This article encourages Beekeeping Associations (BKAs) to take a proactive, positive, and informed approach to public engagement.

Public Interest: Opportunity or Misconception?

Media messages often imply:

  • “Bees are in trouble.”
  • “Plant a few flowers or buy a hive and you’ll save the bees.”
  • “Honey comes straight from a tap with no work involved.”

Many such messages come from people who are not beekeepers or from companies attempting to improve their “green credentials.” While these claims may frustrate experienced beekeepers, dismissing them outright doesn’t make them go away.

Instead, BKAs can use these moments as opportunities:

  • Offer accurate, accessible information.
  • Avoid sounding aggressive or dismissive.
  • Treat those with misconceptions respectfully.

If organised beekeeping does not respond, others certainly will.

Why Public Engagement Matters

The public plays a major role in supporting beekeeping:

  • They buy hive products.
  • They host out-apiaries.
  • They provide the plants bees rely on.
  • They experience swarms, sometimes inside buildings.
  • Some will become future beekeepers.

A planned, ongoing approach helps build long-term trust and understanding.

Using Publicity to Advantage

Local Print Media

Local magazines and newspapers are often looking for content. Short, regular snippets about bees, forage, swarms or seasonal beekeeping topics can build steady public interest.

Social Media

A BKA-run social media account can be extremely effective, but it must be beekeeper-driven. Content from non-beekeepers can unintentionally mislead the public.

Publicity Officer

A dedicated volunteer can make a huge difference, but care is needed. Always check what a publication plans to use—interviews may be cut or edited in ways that distort the intended message.

Events, Shows and Displays

Local shows and community events are excellent opportunities, but what you display matters.

  • Keep key messages at eye level.
  • Avoid clutter and trivia that distracts from the core message.
  • Use an observation hive—always popular.
  • Mark the queen and several drones different colours for easier spotting.
  • Virtual hives also work well.
  • Ensure volunteers are knowledgeable, confident and friendly.

Remember your objectives:

  • Inform the public
  • Support potential beginners
  • Sell hive products

Websites and Online Information

BKAs can strengthen public understanding by adding a “For the Public” or “Interested in Beekeeping?” page that includes:

  • What to do if you see a swarm
  • Differences between honey bees, bumblebees and solitary bees
  • Realistic expectations for new beekeepers
  • Links to high-quality resources
  • A gallery of accurate bee photographs contributed by members
The Core Challenge:
There is a huge amount of unreliable information in the public domain. BKAs cannot eliminate it—but they can ensure reliable information is visible, accessible and trusted.

Conclusion

Public interest in bees is not going away. Beekeeping associations can either lead the conversation or allow others with less knowledge—or different motives—to shape it.

By engaging positively, offering accurate information and adopting a steady communication strategy, BKAs can strengthen public understanding, attract suitable new beekeepers and protect the craft for years to come.