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OUR MISSION
The Central Oregon Beekeepers Association (COBKA) promotes effective, economical, and successful regional beekeeping through education, collaboration, communication, and research - all in a spirit of friendship.WHO WE ARE
COBKA is a volunteer-run organization serving beekeepers across Central Oregon. We're a diverse bunch - beekeepers managing hundreds of hives, backyard hobbyists tending a hive or two, and folks who simply can't stop reading about honey bees (Apis mellifera). If bees are your thing, you belong here.WHY JOIN COBKA?
Whether you're just getting started or have been keeping bees for decades, COBKA offers something for every level. Your membership supports a volunteer-run community built around education, hands-on learning, and the kind of camaraderie that only comes from people who genuinely love bees. The schedule of classes, speakers, and events may vary year to year - we're volunteers, after all - but we show up consistently for our members.Monthly Educational Meetings Each month we bring in guest speakers covering a wide range of beekeeping topics. Meetings also include a Beginner's Corner - a dedicated space for newer beekeepers to ask questions in a welcoming, low-pressure setting.
Beginner & Advanced Classes Our Annual Beginner's Beekeeping Course is a great starting point for new beekeepers. We also offer intermediate and advanced seminars whenever we can.
Hands-On Apiary Experiences There's no substitute for time in the hive. We host field sessions at member apiaries where you can observe, ask questions, and get your hands on a frame.
Beekeeper Network & Camaraderie One of the best things about COBKA is the people. Members connect through meetups, online forums, a classifieds board, and our "Ask a Master Beekeeper" service. Whether you're troubleshooting a problem hive or just want to talk bees, there's someone here who's been there.
Member Extraction Equipment Don't have your own extractor? No problem. Members have access to club extraction equipment through our lending library.
COBKA Local Swarm List Swarm season moves fast. Sign up to receive local swarm alerts to connect you with swarms in the area each spring.
Group Purchase Programs We coordinate spring orders for bees, queens, and equipment - a great way to save money and plan your season alongside fellow members.
Monthly Regional Tips & Meeting Archives Each month we share "In the Apiary" seasonal guidance tailored to Central Oregon conditions. Past presentation slides and videos are also available to members.
Annual Photography Contest & Community Events Bees are beautiful - show us what you've seen. Compete in our annual photography contest and gather for a summer picnic and potluck that's become a favorite tradition.
Education and community partnerships We partner with programs and organizations that support beekeeping education, youth development, and community outreach across Central Oregon.
Oregon Master Beekeeper Program COBKA is a proud partner of the OSU Oregon Master Beekeeper (OMB) program. Several of our club leaders are OMB participants or instructors, and we strongly encourage members to pursue certification. We offer regional scholarships to help Central Oregon beekeepers complete the program. Learn more: https://extension.oregonstate.edu/mb
Youth Beekeeping Support The next generation of beekeepers starts here. COBKA offers the Naomi Price Youth Scholarship for 4-H youth who want to start or continue a beekeeping project. Reach out - we'd love to help. Contact us: contact@cobeekeeping.org
Volunteer Opportunities COBKA runs on the time and energy of its members. We'd love your help with field days, community demonstrations, educational events, and more. Whether that's setting up chairs, greeting guests, running the raffle table, or guiding kids through their first up-close look at a hive. Many hands make light work, and it's a great way to get more involved. Get in touch: https://cobeekeeping.org/volunteers
Complimentary OSBA Membership Your COBKA membership includes a complimentary Oregon State Beekeepers Association (OSBA) membership - connecting you to a statewide network of beekeepers. Benefits include The Bee Line newsletter, event discounts, the member directory, the statewide swarm list, and advocacy support. Your name and email are shared with OSBA to activate this membership. To opt out, visit https://cobeekeeping.org/osba
QUESTIONS OR SUGGESTIONS?
We're always looking to improve. If you have an idea for a new program, a speaker you'd like to see, or feedback on how we're doing, we want to hear it. The COBKA board meets quarterly and takes member input seriously. Submit your thoughts:
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