Name: Ray Goldwire
Position with UF/IFAS: Volunteer, UF/IFAS Master Beekeeper
Current city: Gainesville
Hometown: Starke
Years with UF/IFAS:
I graduated from the University of Florida in 1958 with a BSBA in Economics and a minor in Human Relations. As a 2004 Founder, I live at Oak Hammock at the University of Florida and began a relationship with the Bee Lab in 2006 by beginning an apiary here with the help of a Bee Lab graduate student.
Describe your role at UF/IFAS:
Volunteer for research projects, and fieldwork. Assisted teaching courses at Bee College. Also past chair of the IFAS Development group called SHARE Council (Special Help for Agricultural Research and Education).
What sparked your interest in bees?
Working with the graduate student for a couple of years before his grant ran out. I purchased his 4 hives when he left to return to Finland. Then getting other partners interested in running an apiary together.
What would you say to someone who is thinking of becoming a beekeeper?
Join your local bee club and get involved.
Next find yourself a mentor, probably within the bee club.
Listen to your bees!
Tell us your favorite bee fact:
The honey bee is the only insect that produces food eaten by man. Source: AmericanBeeJournal.com
What do you enjoy most about your role?
Being a mentor to potential beekeepers and teaching elementary and middle school students about honey bees, plus working at our Grow Hub apiary.
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