Weekend event raises funds for apiary program
CRANBERRY TWP — A fundraiser held in conjunction with National Honey Bee Day over the weekend showed the community's support for a new apiary project, officials said.
The fundraiser for the Cranberry Highlands Community Apiary aimed to raise $2,000 from community donations, with funds being matched up to $2,000 by the township's Giant Eagle store. A total of $4,050 was raised during the event through donations and the match.
The apiary opened earlier this year as part of the project, with demonstrations and classes being held to introduce residents to the hobby of beekeeping. According to Mason Miller, a township employee who oversees the program, funds raised during the one-day event will help strengthen the relationship with Burgh Bees, a regional beekeeping club. The club offers seminars and mentorship programs to help novice beekeepers learn the details.
In addition to providing funds to pay for those classes, Miller said landscaping will be purchased for the area. He noted that some of the shrubs in the apiary had died, and new vegetation will be planted next year. Additional funds will assist with the ongoing operation of the apiary.
Miller said in the few months since the apiary opened, the response from the community has been positive.
“Everybody seems really excited about it,” he said, adding he has received numerous calls and emails from prospective participants.
Miller added those inquiries have also come from gardeners who want to help expand the apiary. He said that facet could be added next year as the project continues to grow.
As for the fundraiser, Miller said he was pleased to see the level of support for the young program. He added there are numerous sponsorship opportunities available to support the project, with organizations such as the Cranberry Township Community Chest contributing.
For more information, visit www.cranberrytownship.org/2778/Community-Apiary.
