Bee hives moved from Smith River home

Honeybee active hives have been relocated in Smith River.

Smith River property owner Matt Westbrook experienced a bit of a bee problem, recently. Who’s he gonna call? Del Norte Beekeeping Association.

Westbrook was attempting to finish building a workroom in a barn on his property off Fred Haight Drive when he discovered at least two large bee hives behind the open air walls. Westbrook called Paula DeBorer, president of the Del Norte Beekeeping Association, for assistance in safely relocating the precious little creatures. Safety of the honeybees was paramount  and remains Westbrook’s top priority.

Members on hand, Kristy Rocchi, Macy May,  Paula DeBorer, Dan DeBorer and Harley Munger, were resplendent in beekeeping protective apparel. Member Mary Severson was also on site. Munger gently vacuumed the bees onto transport-safe boxes for relocation. An estimated 10,000 bees were successfully removed from the Westbrook barn and relocated to other secure sites with no casualties.

 A happy ending to a heartwarming event… the community helping our diverse wilflife.

The Del Norte Beekeepers group meets the second Monday of each month at the Family Resource Center,  494 Pacific Avenue, at 6 p.m. For information, including swarm removal, call (707) 460-1653.