The proper answer to the above question is concerned largely with the matter of selecting the best possible means at hand of learning the fundamentals of the industry. The best available means may differ widely in different cases. Of course, the most practical way is to serve at least one complete season's apprenticeship with a practical bee man. This together with the aid of practical bee literature should equip the beginner with a sufficiently reliable knowledge of the business to justify him in starting in for himself on a moderate scale. Many state universities give very practical short term courses in beekeeping.

It is a fact, however, that very few of our successful beekeepers have entered the game by either of the above mentioned methods. It is often difficult if not quite impossible for one to lay aside all other interests for an entire season for the purpose of concentrating on bee culture however anxious they may be to learn.

So the next best method is to buy a colony or two of bees, a veil, smoker, hive tool and a bee book and begin at home. Many of our most successful beekeepers received their first inspiration from a stray swarm which chanced to light on their premises. The home beginner should make it a point to acquire information in every available way. Cultivate the friendship of some practical beeman in your neighborhood; visit his apiary from time to time as the season progresses. If there is a beekeepers' club or association near you join it. Subscribe for a bee journal; get a bee supply catalogue and study it for the purpose of becoming familiar with the details of beekeeping equipment. The Department of Agriculture bulletins on beekeeping and bee diseases are especially good. Send to the U. S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, D. C. for circular E276, "Information about Bee Culture. " This circular lists twenty or more department bulletins on bees, honey, etc., also bee books, bee journals and other information which will be of value to beginners. Let your initial investment and efforts be primarily for the purpose of learning rather than for honey production. A working knowledge of the essentials is absolutely necessary. Luck will not get you by. Modern bee literature is indispensable, but it is of little value apart from the practical side of the study.