Brandon Simmons, owner of Foothills Farm & Apiary, will speak to the Toe Cane Beekeepers Association on Tuesday, March 26. He will discuss how he uses artificial insemination of honey bees to produce more resilient bees.  The meeting, which is free and open to the public, begins at 6:30 p.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church, Spruce Pine. 

A third-generation beekeeper, Simmons uses traditional practices as well as innovative approaches in his apiary to enhance honey bee genetics through artificial insemination and selective breeding for overall colony health.

Simmons also is engaged in research aimed at understanding genetic factors influencing honey bee traits. 

Through Foothills Farm & Apiary, he seeks to enhance honey bee genetics as well as to educate and inspire a community of beekeepers dedicated to sustainable practices.

The Toe Cane Beekeepers Association is a nonprofit organization serving the honey bees and beekeepers of Mitchell, Avery and Yancey counties. It offers educational and training opportunities throughout the year for new and experienced beekeepers and engages in community outreach throughout area schools and at special events. For more information, visit www.toecanebeekeepers.net.