A demonstration of beekeeping practices was held at the South Coast Research and Extension Center, part of University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR), on April 21. The event focused on the introduction of a new queen bee to a colony, with more than 12,000 bees present. Karine Pouliquen, volunteer leader and educator with the California Master Beekeeper Program at UC Davis, guided participants through each step.
The activity highlighted how hands-on learning can help community members understand both the science and care involved in apiculture. Lindsey Pedroncelli, interim director of the center, also participated in guiding attendees through setting up hives before introducing a new queen. The session included volunteers experiencing beekeeping for the first time under careful supervision.
Pouliquen said, “Nunca se trabaja frente a la entrada de la colmena.” She explained that this area is critical as it serves as the bees’ flight path in and out of the hive. Safety procedures were emphasized throughout to ensure both participant well-being and colony health.
The process involved placing a queen bee—transported separately from other bees—in her own cage within the hive. A sugar barrier allows worker bees to gradually release her over several hours so that she can be accepted by the colony. This method reduces risks associated with immediate introduction.
University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources secures funding through public contributions to support its programs, according to the official website. UC ANR promotes sustainable practices aimed at strengthening resilient ecosystems and economic vitality according to its official website. The organization utilizes nine research and extension centers as laboratories representing California’s diverse ecosystems according to its official website.
UC ANR is recognized for providing trusted services that link research directly to community needs according to its official website. As part of the University of California system, it manages Cooperative Extension services statewide according to its official website. Each year UC ANR conducts nearly 34,000 educational events involving more than 18,000 volunteers across various initiatives according to its official website.
Events like this one reflect ongoing efforts by UC ANR to bring scientific knowledge into communities through practical education.