The Dallas County Extension Office is offering those interested an opportunity to learn about beekeeping and its benefits on the community.

The class will take place on Aug. 21 from 5-7 p.m. at the Central Alabama Farmer’s Co-op.

“One of the reasons we’re doing it is because beekeeping has really become one of those trending hobbies for people,” said Callie Nelson, local extension coordinator.

Nelson said people are beginning to realize the importance of bees and are wanting to learn more or even start keeping bees themselves.

“A lot of people have come to realize the importance of bees and pollinators in our community and how they effect and help with crop production, especially back yard gardening,” Nelson said. “This is one way to get people interested in doing that. We can have more bees in our community.”

Nelson said people are also interested in it for the health benefits.

“Also for health purposes, a lot of people use honey,” Nelson said. “So to have local sources for honey that is produced in this area [would be good].”

Instructing the class will be Jack Rowe, a regional extension agent and beekeeper himself.

“Jack Rowe is an extension agent, but he is a beekeeper himself. He has been with the extension for the last 10 years,” Nelson said. “He’s very knowledgeable about the topic. He’s part of the Alabama Beekeepers Association.”

A few people have already signed up, but there is still plenty of room for those interested in the free event.

“If you want to get into this as a hobby or just want to know some more information about it, it’s a great time to come out and be able to ask a person that’s an expert,” Nelson said. “He will have an answer to all of your questions. It’s a good time to have a conversation with someone that’s been in the beekeeping industry and works in that area.”

For more information or to register, call (334) 875-3200.