The Chilton County Beekeepers Association held its first meeting Thursday, April 8, at the Chilton County Extension Office.

More than 30 people were in attendance, with another 15 interested but unable to come to the first meeting.

Experience levels ranged from beekeeping hopefuls, to people with almost 50 years of experience.

Meetings will be held the first Thursday of each month at the Extension Office in downtown Clanton.

The June 5 meeting will elect the first slate of officers and will have a slide show presentation by Bill Evans about what to look for when inspecting your hives.

Membership dues are $10 per year for the local association and an additional $10 a year if members decide to also join the state association (optional).

The Chilton County Beekeepers Association will host the statewide conference at the Clanton Conference and Performing Arts Center on Sept. 26 and 27.

More than 600 Alabama beekeepers are expected at the conference, plus experts, speakers and vendors from around the country.