Winners of the 2015 Young Beekeeper Award

 Robbie Armstrong

Being selected as a finalist, let alone receiving second place is a huge honor. Beekeeping has always been important to me ever since I started, and I hope that I will be able to continue keeping bees for many years to come. The reward money generously provided by the IBA will help me continue to keep bees as well as expand in the coming years. I would like to thank the IBA, Diana Coleman, as well as all of the volunteers that make this award possible. I have been forever humbled by this award, and hope to continue to make a positive difference in the beekeeping community. 

John Seth Barger

I have been beekeeping for 6 years. I started out as one of the original Brent Bridwell Project Recipients. I have had up to six hives but am now down to one due to harsh winters. I have pretty well been through it all in the last few years, I have caught swarms, treated for parasites, harvested honey, and even expanded into the wax market. The hive I have currently is doing well and was up to six supers in the summer but I have compacted them to five for the winter. My bees are winterized. The hive is wrapped in insulation, I have installed a candy board and an entrance reducer. I really enjoy beekeeping and can’t wait start up again next spring.

 Josie Keller

“I just finished my fourth year beekeeping.  I would not have been able to afford to start up beekeeping without the Young Beekeeper Award and the Brent Bridwell project.  These past four years have taught me many lessons not only about bees, but also how to manage a hobby and a business.  I would like to thank the members of the IBA who donated to the programs for young beekeepers, Diana Coleman who has organized the Young Beekeeper’s Program for the last few years, and the judges who donated their time during the conference.  I am very honored to have been selected as a finalist and the first place winner for the older group.”