The Heartland Apicultural Society returns to Michigan State University May 30–31, 2026, bringing together beekeepers from across the region for two days of education, networking, and hands-on learning. In this Beekeeping Today Podcast Short, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman welcome Ana Heck of Michigan State University and Dr. Robyn Underwood of Penn State University to preview the upcoming conference and explain why this event offers something valuable for everyone from beginning beekeepers to experienced sideliners.
This year’s conference emphasizes practical learning. Ana explains that Michigan State University is setting up apiaries near the conference center so participants can attend in-hive workshops covering colony inspections, splits, varroa management, queen finding, and other management topics. Unlike many spring conferences held during colder months, the late-May timing allows attendees to work directly with live colonies.
The conference will also include laboratory workshops focused on honey bee anatomy, dissections, and microscopic diagnosis of bacterial brood diseases including American foulbrood and European foulbrood. Participants will have opportunities to work with microscopes and diagnostic techniques under the guidance of university researchers and instructors.
Featured keynote speakers include Dr. Jennifer Tsuruda, Dr. Jeff Harris, Dr. Reed Johnson, and Dr. Robyn Underwood. Robin discusses her presentations on drones and drone congregation areas, spotted lanternfly honeydew honey, and efficient apiary inspections.
Ana also outlines conference registration details, early registration pricing, and the limited-capacity laboratory sessions available for attendees who register early.
Whether you are a first-year beekeeper or a seasoned beekeeper looking to deepen your knowledge, the Heartland Apicultural Society Conference offers a strong mix of science, practical management, and community.
Registration and conference information can be found at:
Heartland Apicultural Society 2026 Registration ______________
Brought to you by Betterbee – your partners in better beekeeping.
Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com
_______________
We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com
Thank you for listening!
Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott.
Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC
** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases
Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
