Gardnerville, NV – The University of Nevada, Reno Extension is set to host a two-day Bee & Garden Seminar in Douglas County on March 21st and 22nd, 2026. The event, designed for both seasoned beekeepers and aspiring home gardeners, will cover a wide range of topics from hive management to fruit tree care. Registration is currently open and includes all materials, snacks, and lunch for both days, with proceeds benefiting the UNR Extension Douglas County Master Gardener Program and the UNR Extension Douglas County Bee & Pollinator Club.
The seminar aims to provide practical knowledge and foster a community around sustainable gardening and bee conservation. With growing concerns about pollinator health and the importance of local food systems, the event offers a timely opportunity for residents to learn how to support both. The Douglas County Community and Senior Center will serve as the venue for the comprehensive program, offering a central location for participants to connect and learn.
Beekeeping Focus on Saturday, Horticulture on Sunday
Saturday, March 21st, will be dedicated to the intricacies of beekeeping. Sessions will delve into essential aspects such as identifying and managing pests and diseases, understanding hive anatomy, and even a hands-on hive dissection. This portion of the seminar is geared towards those looking to start or improve their beekeeping practices. The University of Nevada, Reno Extension highlights the importance of understanding hive dynamics for successful beekeeping.
Sunday, March 22nd, shifts the focus to home horticulture. Attendees can expect sessions on fruit tree care, integrated pest management (IPM) techniques, and practical advice for successful vegetable gardening. Integrated pest management, as defined by the EPA, focuses on long-term prevention of pests with minimal risk to people and the environment. https://www.epa.gov/ipm
Pollinator Habitat Workshop Available
For those interested in a more hands-on experience, a Pollinator Habitat Workshop is being offered as an add-on on Friday, March 20th. Participants will construct a “bee hotel” – a structure designed to provide nesting habitat for native bees and other beneficial insects. All materials will be provided, and attendees will leave with a completed habitat and guidance on placement and maintenance. This workshop provides a tangible way to contribute to pollinator conservation efforts. More information about the seminar and workshop is available on Eventbrite.
The event will take place at the Douglas County Community and Senior Center, located at 1329 Waterloo Ln, Gardnerville, NV 89410. Doors open at 8:30 AM each day. The seminar is an in-person event with no refunds offered, according to event details.
Agenda Highlights
Here’s a quick look at some of the scheduled sessions:
- Friday, March 20th (Add-On): Pollinator Habitat Workshop (5:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
- Saturday, March 21st: Check-in and Welcome (9:00 AM – 9:30 AM), “What’s All the Buzz? A Comprehensive Look in the Hive” (9:30 AM – 10:30 AM)
- Sunday, March 22nd: Focus on fruit tree care, integrated pest management, and vegetable gardening (specific times not yet available).
The University of Nevada, Reno Extension’s Douglas County office is organizing the seminar, aiming to provide valuable resources for local gardeners and beekeepers. Learn more about the UNR Extension Douglas County office here. The event is open to individuals under 18 with a parent or legal guardian.
Looking ahead, organizers hope the Bee & Garden Seminar will become an annual event, fostering a growing community of gardeners and beekeepers in Douglas County. The success of this year’s seminar will likely influence the scope and focus of future events, potentially expanding to include workshops on related topics such as composting or water conservation.
Share your thoughts on this upcoming event and let us know if you plan to attend in the comments below!
