WINTHROP -- Beekeepers and those who have been preparing to be beekeepers are invited to attend a free bee field day Saturday, Aug. 12 at 10 a.m., hosted by Mark Berninghausen of Squeak Creek Apiaries in partnership with the Local Living Venture Bees & Beekeeping Group.

Attendees must bring their own bee safety apparel, as the group will dive into the hives for several hours. This event has a specific focus on Varroa mite pest identification and control, though other questions will surely come up.

The gear required includes at least a veil, though gloves and a jacket are also strongly recommended. Anyone attending that is sensitive to stings is asked to take full responsibility for their own well-being by wearing a full suit and bringing an epi-pen. It may be possible to borrow gear, but arrangements must be made in advance.

There will be a period of three to four hours spent in the hives. For those who wish to bring a bagged lunch there will be a shared meal time following the event, and a grill will be available.

Squeak Creek Apiaries is located at 437 Hurley Road, one mile from the Mahoney Road, which is four miles from Winthrop on Route 420. Note that use of GPS will send you to the wrong Hurley Rd.

The Apiaries can be reached at 315-250-0555, and the Local Living Venture is available at 315-261-1926, LocalLivingVenture@gmail.com and LocalLivingVenture.org.