Urban Beekeeping

Urban beekeeping is a rapidly growing phenomenon as cities become increasingly environmentally conscious. Since the legalization of beekeeping in New York City in 2018 the industry has taken off, allowing for open conversations about such things as the importance of pollinators, and urban sustainability in the workplace. Madeline will address common concerns over the honeybee population, the debate over wild bees vs. domesticated ones, the challenges and advantages of beekeeping in close spaces and more. Join us as we dive into the structure of the hive, the basics of beekeeping, and the ever-growing urban beekeeping industry.

GUEST SPEAKER:
Madeline Zeif’s love for all things nature flourished during her childhood on a small farm in Sunderland Vermont where she was first introduced to beekeeping working with her dad on his hobby hive.  Following her Burr and Burton graduation and a gap year spent doing a National Outdoor Leadership semester then a semester working on the National Climate Change March Madeline attended the University of British Columbia to study Environmental Policy. After her UBC graduation Madeline moved back to the East Coast and settled in New York City where she stumbled upon a job listing for an “Urban Beekeeper”.  Madeline fell in love with bees and beekeeping working as a New York City Urban Beekeeper during 2022/23.  She has since been promoted to Northeast Lead Beekeeper for Alveole, covering Boston, Philadelphia and New York.  She is studying to get her Masters Certificate in Beekeeping from Cornell.