#MeetOurMember Ian Steppler, a true steward of the bees and one of the driving forces behind our BeeMaid Honey cooperative! From his humble beginnings with just four hives sparked by a university course in beekeeping, Ian's journey has blossomed into a remarkable dedication spanning over two decades.
Ian's fascination with environmental conservation led him to explore beekeeping. Little did he know those initial four hives would ignite a lifelong passion and commitment to the world of apiculture! Today, Ian stands as the Chairperson of the Manitoba Beekeepers' Association, a testament to his expertise and leadership in the field.
Nestled in the heart of Miami, Manitoba, Ian oversees the management of a 1500-hive operation, comprising 1200 full-sized colonies and a thriving 400-hive nuc operation. But Ian's approach goes beyond mere numbers.
Ever the innovator, he constantly seeks ways to enhance efficiency and productivity. From utilizing pallets and forklifts to implementing streamlined extraction equipment, Ian processes approximately 250,000-300,000 pounds of honey annually. Yet, amidst his bustling operation, Ian still remains committed to mentorship and knowledge-sharing, epitomizing the spirit of paying it forward. Through his engaging YouTube channel, he invites viewers into his world, offering insights, lessons, and glimpses into the intricate lives of his beloved bees.
Driven by an insatiable curiosity for bee behaviour and a pursuit of excellence, Ian has propelled his beekeeping operation to new heights and we are so happy to have him part of the BeeMaid Honey family!