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Colin Stavnes and Noel Grandy hope to transform Newfoundland beekeeping with their new winter course. The duo says the course is creating a buzz among novices.

“We’re thrilled to share our knowledge and passion for beekeeping,” said Stavnes.

“Our course is designed to empower novices and change the landscape of beekeeping in this region,” added Grandy.

Stavnes and Grandy, co-owners of Avalon Homesteading, say they want to make beekeeping in Newfoundland more accessible for beginners. Their upcoming winter course, scheduled for October 21, provides those with the skills to maintain beehives during the winter months.

Becoming self-sufficient

Stavnes and Grandy are childhood friends who share a passion. Growing up, the pair were both fascinated with nature and sustainable living.

“We were always outdoors or growing things. We’ve always dabbled in what you would call homesteading; providing for yourself,” said Stavnes.

The pair remained close until adulthood and eventually went on separate paths in pursuit of education. In 2020, the pair returned to the island. Realizing they both sustain the same practices, together they co-founded Avalon Homesteading.

“​​We aim to help spread education and we want to help people become more self-sufficient. And to use more traditional methods. To do that, we try to use as many locally sourced products as we can and we also host classes,” said Grandy.

Fostering a community

Grandy adds that Avalon Homesteading is all about fostering a community of eco-conscious individuals. Saying that the upcoming winter course is a significant part of this effort.

This isn’t the first time Avalon Homesteading has extended its knowledge-sharing endeavours. In the spring, the pair shared that they hosted a course tailored to beginners.

“Our spring course covered the basics for those starting,” said Grandy. “We realized that there’s a real thirst for knowledge about beekeeping in Newfoundland.”

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Building resilience in beekeeping

Stavnes said the province is known for its harsh weather conditions and it can be particularly demanding for bee colonies. Through the course, the pair hope to ensure the survival of many colonies.

“Winters are tough on bees. Our course equips beekeepers with the skills for cold-weather hive management,” added Stavnes. “We want to increase the chances of colonies thriving even in these conditions”.

Grandy added that participants can expect hands-on training, covering insulation techniques, and hive maintenance.

Getting so much more

Denise Holland, a participant in Avalon Homesteading’s spring beekeeping course, shares her initial interest in the world of beekeeping.

“I love to garden. One year, my sister and I noticed how few bees were pollinating our plants. I started researching bees and realized there was a lot to learn,” said Holland.

Although Holland had no prior knowledge of beekeeping, she became motivated to enhance her gardening experience. “I wanted basic knowledge, but I got so much more.”

She says the course exceeded her expectations. Learning about the different parts of the hive, and their functions. As a result of her experience, she says she now spends more time in the garden and recognizes the vital role of bees in pollinating crops.

Instilling wonder and knowledge

Holland’s experience in the spring beekeeping course is what Stavnes and Grandy say they aim to offer all participants.

“We want to create an experience where every participant gains a deep appreciation for bees and their role in our ecosystem,” said Stanvez.

“We want to instill this sense of wonder and knowledge in everyone who joins our courses,” added Grandy.

Their upcoming winter course, on October 21, will be equipping beekeepers with essential cold-weather skills.