In this Galena Farms Beekeeper Feature, we meet Allen Clements, a regenerative biodynamic farmer from Wrightsville, Pennsylvania, whose 12-year beekeeping journey began with a school project and grew into a deeper practice of understanding and working alongside his bees. For Allen, one of the most rewarding parts of beekeeping is developing a relationship with the bees and learning to work with them rather than constantly disrupting them.

Guided by biodynamic practices and literature, he follows a "beekeeping by the stars" approach, carefully considering celestial timing and minimizing how often he opens his hives. His experience has taught him that successful beekeeping comes not only from advice and research, but from observing, experimenting, and learning through experience.

Topics Covered:

  • Allen's journey from a school project to more than 12 years of beekeeping

  • Using biodynamic practices and celestial timing when managing colonies

  • Why building a relationship with the bees is one of the most rewarding parts of beekeeping

  • Navigating the overwhelming amount of conflicting advice available to new beekeepers

  • Lessons learned from colony loss and preparing hives for extreme weather

  • Why beginners should start simply, observe their bees, and focus on learning

  • The quality, construction, and durability of Hoover Hives

  • Why beeswax-coated equipment can make hive assembly and maintenance easier

For anyone beginning their beekeeping journey, Allen's experience is a reminder that there is no single formula for keeping bees. While books, research, and advice from other beekeepers can provide a valuable foundation, much of the learning comes from spending time with your colonies, paying attention to what they are telling you, and being willing to learn from mistakes.

His advice for new beekeepers is simple: start with the essentials, don't feel pressured to invest in the latest or most expensive equipment, and give yourself time to learn. Allen recommends spending the first year observing and getting to know your bees rather than focusing on harvesting honey. With patience, experience, and quality equipment, beekeeping can become a rewarding way to develop a deeper understanding of the bees and the natural world around them.