AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. — Honey bee enthusiasts are invited to see what all the buzz is about at the 31^st Annual Alabama Beekeepers Symposium. Taking place Feb. 7, educators from the Alabama Cooperative Extension System at Auburn University are excited to share this educational and training opportunity to both new and seasoned beekeepers alike.

Jack Rowe, an Alabama Extension forestry, wildlife and natural resources agent, said this year’s symposium is going to focus on topics related to colony management and survival, as well as developing new skills.

“The symposium is an excellent way to learn beekeeping skills, look at the new products and, above all, have a chance to meet beekeepers from across the state and wider region,” Rowe said.

This year’s symposium shifts locations to the Wallace State Community College School of Nursing and Center for Science in Hanceville. Check-in starts at 8 a.m. with the educational activities lasting from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Up to Feb. 1, registration is available online for $45 at aces.edu/go/2026Bee. After Feb. 1, people can register in person for $55 the day of the event.

Brimming with Buzz

The symposium’s action‑packed agenda features hands‑on learning and valuable lectures where beekeepers can enjoy a full day of engagement. To help tackle their challenges, there will be dedicated time for participants to ask questions to industry experts.

Selina Bruckner, an assistant Extension professor at Auburn University, encourages beekeepers to take advantage of this opportunity.

“The symposium is an intimate conference that allows participants to directly engage with the speakers,” Bruckner said. “It is crucial for researchers and beekeepers to interact. As researchers, we need to know what experiments and science the beekeepers want and need, as we ultimately serve the industry with our research.”

Rowe said this meeting is a worthwhile platform for hobbyists and commercial producers to address current industry challenges.

“In our state, we have parasites, diseases, habitat loss, pollution and the introduction of new honey bee pests constantly pressuring our beekeepers,” Rowe said. “Our symposium is focused on bringing updates from researchers and experienced beekeepers to help them keep ahead of the issues.”

Cameron Jack, an assistant professor of honey bee toxicology at the University of Florida, will be the keynote speaker. His presentation will cover control practices for varroa mites. Additionally, Jon Zawislak, an assistant professor of apiculture at the University of Arkansas, will cover a variety of beekeeping techniques that are useful to all.

Adding even more value, attendees can purchase equipment from an array of suppliers. Some vendors are offering preorder options to help producers save on shipping costs. Finally, beekeepers are encouraged to enter the symposium honey show to showcase their hive products, such as bottled honey, as well as bee-related arts.

More Information

With its blend of practical training, research insights and curated connections, there are many ways to benefit from this event. For more information on the agenda, vendors, directions and lodging, visit aces.edu/go/2026Bee.