From corporate boardrooms in Chicago and Sydney to the fields of Lacombe, Alberta, Howard Oudman’s journey back to his farming roots is nothing short of extraordinary. A proud cooperative member for the past 15 years, Howard grew up on a farm, always appreciating the agricultural lifestyle. Though his career led him far from home—spanning banking, business consulting, and a decade as a jet-setting executive—Howard’s love for the land eventually called him back. In 2010, alongside his wife Freda, her twin brother Nico, and their cousin Mike, Howard embarked on a bold new chapter as a beekeeper.
It wasn’t the smoothest start. Their leap into beekeeping was spurred by a family crisis: a fire that ended Nico’s career as a mushroom farm manager. At a Christmas gathering, Nico’s enthusiasm for his hobby beehives sparked an idea, and with Freda’s unwavering support (even though she’s allergic to bees!), the team purchased a few hundred hives. Thanks to the guidance of fellow beekeepers and the Alberta Honey Producers Co-op, they grew their operation to 3,000 hives and a modern facility on Howard’s family farm.
Over the years, Howard’s passion for bees has only deepened. “The intricate life of a hive never ceases to amaze me,” he shares. “From springtime blooms to preparing the hives for winter, it’s a marvel to witness.”
Beyond the bees, Howard loves mentoring new beekeepers, including a father-and-son duo who now use his honey house. Today, his apiary is a smaller operation of around 100 colonies, allowing Howard to focus on sharing the incredible story of honeybees and their role in pollination.
Howard’s message is simple but powerful: “Beekeepers absolutely love their insects.” Whether it’s maintaining thriving hives, advocating for native flower habitats, or highlighting the vital role of pollinators in our food supply, Howard is proud to be an environmental steward.
645 Black Diamond Blvd.
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Canada, R2J 4M7
Téléphone 204-786-8977
Télécopieur 1-866-788-8030
Courriel 204-783-8468
