🐝 Black Hammock Bee Farms: Saving beekeepers in Central Florida

OVIEDO, Fla – With approximately 500 bee colonies under their care, this family business has evolved from humble beginnings into a comprehensive beekeeping education center and honey production facility.

“We started out with bee removal and as a result, we bring back so many bees to the farm,” explains Beth Langlois, who manages the bees and schedules tours and classes at Black Hammock Bee Farms. “We have so many bees, so we produce a lot of honey. Then we needed a store to serve honey customers. It all just sort of evolved organically.”

From bee rescue to education center

The farm performs 500 to 550 bee removals each year, humanely relocating colonies from unwanted locations to their sanctuary. Dennis Langlois, who specializes in bee removal and relocation, has been helping homeowners with bee issues for almost 20 years.

“Florida homes provide lots of good cavities for bees to move into,” Dennis explains. “The typical home probably has 10 or 20 places that bees could move into if they chose to.” Using specialized equipment, the team safely removes bees without damaging homes and implements preventative measures to avoid future issues.

Creating backyard beekeepers

One of Black Hammock’s primary missions is fostering new beekeepers. “Our biggest effort is creating backyard beekeepers,” Beth emphasizes. “The more development we have of homes, the less woods there are. If every home had a hive or two in their backyard, then we can coexist.”

The farm offers comprehensive beekeeping education, including:

• Beekeeping 101 classes for beginners
• Advanced Beekeeping 102 courses
• Honey extracting classes
• Equipment sales and support
• Bee colonies for purchase

Supporting local agriculture

Beyond education, Black Hammock Bee Farm plays a crucial role in local agriculture. Their bees help pollinate various crops, including:

• Blueberry farms
• Orange groves
• Organic farms

The farm store also supports other local producers by selling farm-fresh eggs and beef from local cattle farms.

Inspiring future farmers

The Langlois family places special emphasis on youth education, hosting field trips and educational programs for schools.

“The more children that we show bees and get them excited and have them step foot on a farm and get their little minds going, then that’s the next generation of farmers. And we desperately need that,” Beth shares.

Visit Black Hammock Bee Farms

Interested in becoming a beekeeper or trying local honey? You can find Black Hammock Bee Farms on:

• Facebook and Instagram: @BlackHammockBeeFarms
• Website: BlackHammockBeeFarms.com
• Phone: 407-365-BEES

The farm offers honey tastings, tours throughout the week and beekeeping classes on Saturdays. Their store features various honey products, beekeeping equipment and local farm goods.

Whether you’re curious about beekeeping, looking for local honey, or want to help save the bees, Black Hammock Bee Farm offers a unique opportunity to connect with these essential pollinators while supporting local agriculture.