I mentioned in another thread about a visit I made to the governor's mansion in Harrisburg on Monday to go over the final details of installing an apiary. Not an observation hive, but working hives.
I did not see Governor Corbett, as he was finalizing the state budget that was just unveiled.
The best location, will be in the private residence garden. There are a number of other gardens including an English rose garden, but with the number of socials and functions, the traffic in close quarters to the beehives, may not be good.
The hives will be maintained by the Pennsylvania Backyard Beekeepers Association. It is part of our "open apiaries" program which is also placing 10 observation hives this spring in nature centers and environmental centers all across the state. A real accomplishment for an association not even a year in existence.
These are the "brick and mortar" programs that expand public knowledge and build bridges. I would encourage bee associations in other states to install bee hives also.
At a later time, we will have an official "unveiling" and we invited the Governor and first lady to be honorary members of our association.
We will be getting English style beehives. And are considering a special label for any honey produced.
Hopefully we can garner support in the future and benefit from such endeavors. Planting seeds now, may grow into great things later.
signed,
lazyboy :-D