2021 Conference and Trade Show Recap

By Jules Ham, Alberta Beekeepers Commission

It was great to welcome back so many beekeepers, researchers, industry specialists, exhibitors, sponsors, and industry enthusiasts to this year’s 87th Annual Alberta Beekeepers Commission (ABC) Conference & Trade Show event. We had a great turnout of both in-person and online guests for our first ever hybrid event held at the Fantasyland Hotel and Conference Centre on November 25 and 26, 2021.

From the latest in genetics to robotic beekeeping…

We wish to thank all our talented speakers and presenters for taking the time to share their knowledge and expertise with us. We were pleased to host a range of both local, national, and international speakers who presented on a diverse range of valuable topics.

2021 Beekeeper of the Year

Congratulations to Mike and Jenny deJong of Busy Bee Farm on being awarded this year’s Beekeeper of the Year Award.

The Beekeeper of the Year Award is presented to an individual, couple, or group who has consistently demonstrated commitment, leadership, passion, and dedication—and it acknowledges and celebrates the valuable contributions the winner has made to the beekeeping industry in Alberta. Mike and Jenny have a long history of beekeeping in Alberta. With over 20 years of experience in beekeeping, Mike and Jenny have built a thriving business on a foundation of compassion and respect. Together with their family, Busy Bee Farm have built a dynamic team and a business that’s constantly innovating and evolving to drive the industry forward. Mike and Jenny have cultivated strong relationships across the province and are devoted to helping farmers maximize crop yields and improve ecosystems. Their pollination services are an important asset for canola producers around the province, and producers of many other crops as well. They constantly push development forward for better efficiency, better products, and better service.

Congratulations Mike, Jenny and family!

Honey blonde and high bids

The conference hospitality night is often viewed as one of the highlights of this annual event, and this year we created some additional buzz by featuring a custom brewed honey blonde beer made with 100% pure Alberta honey, as well as a LIVE auction. The beer – and the live auction – were a huge success with all funds raised from the auction going towards supporting the Alberta Tech Transfer Program

THANK YOU to our 2021 Sponsors

Valued sponsors and exhibitors

A huge thank you to all our valued sponsors and exhibitors at this year’s event. We couldn’t do this without you and really appreciate your support!