Mattie Joiner
The American Honey Producers Association 53rd Annual Conference and Trade Show took place December 1-4, 2021, and was a happy reunion amongst beekeepers. The buzz of conversation between them rivaled even the busiest of hives, the joy of being together intensified by being so long apart.
Held in Baton Rouge, LA, the conference began with a welcome reception and the opening of the Trade Show where members enjoyed Cajun style food, live music, and entertainment.
The first full day of the conference featured many important industry updates. Our Keynote Speaker was Mr. Alan Luberda, partner at Kelly Drye and AHPA’s representative in matters of trade litigation and enforcement under the anti-dumping duty laws. Mr. Luberda presented information on the work he does for us, along with an update on the current anti-dumping lawsuit filed by AHPA. Other presentations included those on almond pollination and teaching honey bees’ immune systems to fight diseases.
Excitement swirled among members the next day as they participated in a panel hosted by veteran commercial beekeepers who shared what has and hasn’t worked for them in the battle against varroa mites. Lectures about the problems impacting honey bee health, the PAm and Hilo Queen Project, and the requeening of colonies were also offered. That evening, members enjoyed a night out unlike any other.
Our group outing to historic White Oak Estate and Gardens was highly anticipated and thoroughly enjoyed by all! Owned by renowned chef, John Folse, the estate boasts a restored and operating distillery, sugar mill, grits mill, and beautiful antebellum-style house. Members enjoyed a tour given by Chef Folse himself and authentic Louisiana cuisine prepared by Chef and his team in the estate kitchen.
Friday began with a New Member Breakfast where new, longtime, and board members had the opportunity to connect. Presentations were given on the Canadian Honey Council, effects of the past year’s high temperatures on honey production, new varroacides, and updates on bee stressors. Our banquet and live auction were a wonderful way to conclude the day.
During the banquet, we were pleased to honor Kim Flottum with the Beekeeper of the Year award. The Friend of the Industry award was happily given to Mike Coursey. In a touching speech, Kelvin Adee announced he was stepping down from the AHPA Presidency. Vice President, Chris Hiatt, moved into the role and long-time executive board member, Steven Coy, became our new VP.
We were also pleased to present Richard Adee, Jack Meyer, and Bobby Coy with the Lifetime Member Award for their outstanding, decades-long support of AHPA and their contributions to the beekeeping industry.
Several months have passed since our 53rd Annual Conference, but we are already preparing for this year’s conference! Witnessing the reunion of old friends and the creation of new ones is perhaps the best part of our gathering. The solidarity and fellowship enjoyed by these beekeepers cannot be found anywhere else. We look forward to seeing you all this December in Tucson, Arizona!
