Budding Gardeners: Beekeeping

Michael Leach found a passion for bees in 2009 when he started building beehives for other beekeepers, and he was hooked. Four years later, he decided he wanted to share that passion with others and started Bee Friends Farm. A jack of all trades, Michael brings his carpentry and organizational skills to work every day. A strong believer in community engagement, he is heavily involved with the Jacksonville Beekeeping Association, where he leads a hands on mentoring program for new beekeepers. He currently manages the bees for the Ritz Carlton Amelia Island, providing honey bee presentations and honey tastings for group events.

The health of his bees comes first, and Michael is always looking for ways to strengthen the hives he manages. While beekeeping is not always easy, it is always rewarding, and he would not trade it for any of his previous professions. Through his work and educational programs, Michael enjoys sharing the fascinating world of bees with people of all ages.

Each registration includes one parent and child.