Trick Hall

ABOUT THE BEEKEEPER

From two hives to Master Beekeeper.

Trick Hall’s beekeeping journey began in 2022 after he came across an article in a Veterans Administration newsletter discussing beekeeping for veterans dealing with PTSD and anxiety. The idea of an activity that could benefit veterans while also helping the environment amid concerns about bee losses caught his attention.

That same year, Trick started with his first two hives. His first season was a successful one, producing four supers of honey, and both colonies overwintered well. What started with those two colonies has since grown into an eight-hive apiary.

In 2023, Trick completed the Heroes to Hives Beekeeping Education Course. Wanting to learn more about honey bees and become a better beekeeper, he continued his education through the University of Montana Master Beekeeping Certificate Program.

As part of completing the Master program, Trick conducted a field research project examining whether the placement of VarroxSan oxalic acid strips within the hive affected Varroa mite control.

Today, beekeeping remains a hobby for Trick, although that hobby has grown into years of hands-on experience, advanced education, field research, and a desire to share what he learns with others.

And when all the studying, mite counts, inspections, and colony management are finished, his favorite part is still one of beekeeping’s sweetest rewards: harvesting the honey. Honey from the apiary is enjoyed at home, shared with friends and family, and some is sold locally.