A few weeks ago, I did some photography for Just Food’s Pollinator Week. The good folks at Just Food are trying to help educate the public and the government on the positive effects of beekeeping; as well as re-educating said audience about the non-dangers of beekeeping. I had a lot to learn, and Patrick Gannon, a beekeeper in City Island and science and medical educator at Hofstra University, generously gave me a tour of his hives.
The main thing I learned is that it is NOT required to wear a beekeeper’s suit at all times around the hives. The only reason honeybees will ever hurt you is if you hurt them, either by squashing or swatting them. When honeybees are hurt or irritated, they release pheromones that inform their hive members of danger - leading to honeybees gone wild, if you will. Mr. Gannon emphasized that as a beekeeper, he is the caretaker of the bees. He does not control them, he only helps them to do their job, and rarely enters the hives unless he needs to check in on things or the honey is ready.
Patrick was generous not only with his time, but also with his image. As of yet, beekeeping is still illegal within NYC, and I want to commend Patrick for putting himself out there as a spokesperson and educator during a time when doing so could lead to hefty fines.
Some of these photos will be included in the Hidden Hives Tour that Just Food is presenting, Thursday 6/25/09 at 7pm.
©elizabeth leitzell 2009
Posted in Photography, featured work, nyc, people and nature, photojournalism | No Comments »
