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In West Virginia, beekeeping is gradually evolving from a hobby into a growing business, especially in North Central communities like Morgantown.
Statistically, more than 80% of the food supply depends on pollinators. In West Virginia, beekeepers harvest roughly 250,000 pounds of honey each year. Contributing more than $15 billion to U.S. agriculture annually, making the industry both essential.
Across Morgantown, the steady hum of bees signals more than hive activity. It reflects a rising movement. From farms to backyards, more people are taking up beekeeping. They produce not just honey but also candles, soaps, and other goods sold in markets throughout the state.
That variety is fueling renewed interest. Nationwide, the beekeeping industry has grown by nearly 7% since 2019 as more individuals turn a hobby into a small business.
For Eryck Stamper, beekeeping is about more than production; it’s about purpose. He operates a therapeutic beekeeping program to support active-duty service members, veterans, first responders, and their families.
“There are a lot of benefits to beekeeping from an agricultural standpoint as well as a therapeutic and economic standpoint,” Stamper said.
As the global honey industry surpasses $9 billion, demand for hive products continues to grow. Each hive, home to tens of thousands of bees, contributes to the honey that reaches store shelves.
Local resources play a key role in helping beekeepers succeed. Alisa Foster says support is available for those looking to manage and grow their operation.
“Of course, we have resources for all our local beekeepers to come in and do what they need to do… extract honey, treat bees, anything like that they may need to do,” Foster said.
That support is making a difference. About 70% of small-scale beekeepers in West Virginia. report breaking even or turning a profit within their first two years.
Still, for many, the rewards go beyond financial gain. Stamper says the sense of community is a key part of the experience.
“There’s a lot of camaraderie in beekeeping, so it’s always important to join your local beekeeper’s association, to get that additional training and that teamwork with your peers,” he said.
As demand for natural, locally produced goods continues to rise, so does appreciation for the work behind each jar of honey. With the U.S. honey market generating more than $1.5 billion in revenue last year, local beekeepers say their efforts are about more than selling products; they’re about building community and sustaining a growing tradition.
This article was adapted from a television news story using AI. All reporting, facts, and quotes from sources are original. AI was only used to assist with formatting and style for a digital platform.