Скачать или смотреть Walker County Beekeepers Association Gathering - 29 January 2026

Guest Speaker Dr. Garett Slater,

Will be answering the question. How do we ensure the future health of our Honeybees? It starts with education and ends with genetics. This session introduces the Texas Master Beekeeping Program (TMBP), outlining the pathway for beekeepers to refine their craft and serve their communities.

From there, we examine the science behind the honeybee Drone Congregation Areas (DCAs). We will explore the critical role these mating sites play in queen production and genetic variation. By understanding both the educational resources available and the biological mechanics of the mating flight, beekeepers can better ensure their colonies act as engines of health and productivity.

Dr. Garett Slater is the Assistant Professor and Honey Bee Extension Entomologist for Texas A&M AgriLife. A lifelong beekeeper with a background in commercial pollination, Dr. Slater specializes in honey bee genetics and breeding. He currently leads the Texas Master Beekeeping Program, where he works to improve colony health and genetic diversity by translating complex biological research into practical tools for Texas beekeepers.