Between conventional agriculture and Zika virus spraying, bees have never had a harder time doing their all important job of pollination. That’s why HMI is particularly excited to have Michael Thiele speak at HMI’s 2016 Conference in Paicines, California on October 14-16, 2016.

Michael is leading an innovative and multidimensional approach within the biodynamic apiculture movement and teaches in the United States and abroad about a bee-centric approach. He is founder and president of Gaia Bees (www.gaiabees.com) and is researching wild Honeybees and new dimensions of apiculture in a sociocultural, agricultural and spiritual context.

In the last decade, Michael has been involved with the creation of Honeybee sanctuaries and refuges as a means of protection and education. In 2013, he worked as a biodynamic consultant for the USDA in the Dominican Republic and more recently he presented his work at Harvard University. His work is documented in various national and international magazines, books and film documentaries (“Queen of the Sun”).

Creating Honeybee Sanctuaries; Biodynamic Apiculture; Holistic Apiaries

Michael will be talking about how honeybees are a keystone species and a core element of the biosphere. He will share how we can protect them and ensure their survival. Michael will give an introduction into biodynamic apiculture and a bee-centered approach. This new framework of living with bees provides resources and strategies for Holistic Management and healthy apiaries. Alternative hive designs and the dimensions of ethics in our relationships with honeybees will be additional topics.

Cultivating Community: Land, Food, Health will offer thought-provoking presentations and breakout sessions on various consumer and producer interests. Local food security, land health, strengthening our communities and nourishing our bodies all included! We have something for everyone, so come learn from the experts!

Many of our acclaimed speakers are celebrated throughout the world. Our special keynote speaker, “America’s Most Famous Farmer” himself, Joel Salatin of Polyface Farms, will be sure to inspire us all.

We’ll also enjoy beautiful landscapes, farm-fresh food and be on the land with the animals. This is no ordinary conference.

Won’t you join us?