McHenry County 4-H kids have been busy as bees
The McHenry County 4-H kids have been busy as bees, especially because they had to "tuck in" their beehives for the winter.
Just before the cold weather set in, the McHenry County 4-H "Just Wing It" Pollinators Club learned how to winterize the beehives that are kept at the McHenry County Fairgrounds in Woodstock.
The 4-H club members were taught the basic principles of hive winterizing, as well as the techniques needed to do the job.
Winterizing helps increase the likelihood of survival of the bee colony through the harsh weather during the winter months.
Experienced beekeepers Randy Mead and Jerry Gudauskas helped to mentor this young group of beekeepers.
The 4-H Just Wing It club will meet again for its first year-end holiday party at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, at the McHenry County Extension office, 1102 McConnell Road in Woodstock. The event will include a potluck with a theme of dishes made with honey.
New members are welcome; bring a dish (preferably with honey) to pass.
For more information, visit extension.illinois.edu.
Learn how to winterize your beehive at backyardbeekeeping101.com/winterizing-bee-hives/.