DIY Beekeeping: Download and print a smart beehive kit

treehugger writes…

Open Source Beehives

Combining elements of natural beekeeping, citizen science, open source hardware, and networked smart devices, these DIY beehives could be a powerful tool in the fight against Colony Collapse Disorder.

Honeybees are amazing creatures, because not only are they responsible for producing that jar of honey on your counter by flying tens of thousands of miles and visiting millions of flowers, but they’re also an incredibly important part of our ecosystem, working tirelessly as pollinators. In fact, without honeybees and other bees, our agriculture and food system would look drastically different, as bees pollinate about 70 of the top 100 food crops, and are said to account for 80% of pollination worldwide…

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How To Build A Top Bar Hive – Free eBook

“Fully illustrated, step-by-step guide to building a top bar hive, using simple tools and only basic woodworking skills. Top bar beekeeping is becoming popular with homesteaders and backyarders due to its simplicity and ease of management. Very little is needed except a hive and this guide will help you build one…”

Source

[biobees.com]

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Introduction – Why Make Yours A Bee Garden?

Bees

What types of bees do you see in your garden? At first glance you may observe some honeybees ducking in and out of flowers, perhaps a bumblebee or two. Did you know that there are actually 81 known species of bees in urban Berkeley alone? Take a better look; you may see bright green bees, small black bees, striped and fuzzy bees. These busy little creatures are responsible for pollinating a large variety of fruits, flowers, and vegetables. They are an important and vital part of our ecosystem.

Our lab at UC Berkeley observes native bees and their favorite flowers. Native bees are different from the honeybee you are familiar with. They do not live in hives and do not produce honey but they have equally important roles in gardens and natural ecosystems. We created this website to familiarize you with the diversity of native bees in urban areas, their habits, and to instruct you on how to create bee-friendly gardens.

Want a quick jump-start into bee gardening? Have a look at our new comprehensive Seasonal Recommended Bee Plants lists. Everything you need to start gardening – all in one place!

source

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Beeginners (Bee & Beekeeping)

Beekeeping

This FAQ is aimed at people considering starting to keep bees or are in their first season as a beekeeper and need practical advice on how to enjoy their new hobby.

Beeginners

How to Build A Top Bar Hive

“How to … Bee Sting, Smoker”

Top Bar Bee Hive

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