2021 OSBA Fall Conference
Florence, Oregon and via Zoom
The 2021 Fall Conference of the Oregon State Beekeepers Association took place in scenic Florence October 22–24 at the Florence Events Center—and at our kitchen tables via Zoom! As can be seen on our Presentations and Presenters page, we were steeped in current research, updates, and perspectives gained by researchers on some of the daunting issues we all face. In addition, we thank our supportive Exhibitors and Advertisers, some of whom joined us in the virtual realm as well.
Our conference auctions raised $22,200 through the many generous donations received and the equally generous contributions of all who bid on the items. This meant that we were able to meet the very kind offer made by GloryBee, through its SAVE the BEE Initiative, to match up to $15,000 a reality. We are beyond thankful to everyone involved. All funds raised through the auctions go to research.
Among conference extras this year was the Honey Show. We thank Dewey Caron, who stepped in late as Honey Judge, and we congratulate those who had the winning entries:
Light extracted honey: Blue ribbon, identified as fireweed – Jeremy Mitchell
Amber extracted honey: Blue ribbon, identified as sugar water honey (likely blackberry) – Eric Walls; Red ribbon, blackberry – David Matis; White ribbon – M. Nathan Pritchard
Dark extracted honey: Blue ribbon, identified as knotweed – Ada McClory
Cookies, Peanut Butter and Honey Shortbread – Kristi Walls
Grand prize, amber honey with 98 points – Eric Walls
Photos: Appreciation to Bonnie King, Mureen Walker, Karen Finley, Pam Leavitt, and Svetlana Maslakova