“Natural Beekeeping” denotes a growing number of endeavours undertaken by beekeepers in response to the critical situation of the honeybee and the natural world today. Such efforts are as diverse as the individuals involved, and represent a body of work and practical research that is evolving within a beekeeping world where ever more artificial methods of raising bees are the norm.
In ancient cultures bees were held sacred. Their survival was assured over millions of years. In less than onehundredandfifty years this has changed. Much of modern beekeeping, like intensive farming, is geared at maximum production and results in exploitation when the essential needs of bees and other animals are disregarded.
Natural Beekeeping is – in the widest sense - the acknowledgement of a widely perceived imperative: It is up to all of us to help the bee back to health. This will most definitely not be achieved by scientific research and government funding alone. Nor will it be achieved by beekeepers, natural or otherwise. The collapse of bee colonies wordwide concerns us all. Natural beekeeping aims to raise awareness that we need to re-establish our connection with bees on the widest basis – a connection we have lost in the wake of our growing disregard for the integrity of nature.
On a more personal level, and with particular reference to the Natural Beekeeping Trust it might be said that we feel inspired to educate ourselves in relating to bees in new and unaccustomed ways. Through seeking to understand the nature of bees, keeping them with due regard for their intrinsic needs and supporting their natural life expressions in any way we can we hope to help them thrive. There are encouraging indications that colonies are strengthened as a result of husbandry that is mindful, first and foremost, of the bees’ needs. Whilst this is not altogether surprising, and would appear to be the way to go at a time when the bees are perceived to be in great trouble, this approach to bees is frequently attacked from within established beekeeping circles. However, this may change in time and we are extremely fortunate to be helped and encouraged by many well-wishers and active supporters, as well as the teachings of Rudolf Steiner which prompted us to embark on this journey.
Through keeping bees with care and in accordance with their nature as well as encouraging sustainable husbandry and organic and biodynamic agriculture we are confident in our ability to contribute to a new culture of beekeeping. A culture that is grounded in love and respect for the unique bee whose exemplary nature and importance to life on earth have much to teach us.
Some say that unto Bees a share is given
Of the Divine Intelligence, and to drink
Pure Draughts of ether, for God permeates all -
Earth, and wide ocean, and the vault of Heaven -
From whom flocks, herds, men, beast of every kind,
Draw each at birth the fine essential flame.
From “The Georgics” by Virgil
Heidi Herrmann