About Us
Our Mission
The Columbia Gorge Beekeepers Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the art and science of beekeeping in the Columbia River Gorge region. We serve beekeepers on both the Oregon and Washington sides of the Gorge.
What We Do
We provide education, mentoring, and community support for beekeepers of all experience levels. Our monthly meetings feature presentations on seasonal management, pest control, honey harvesting, and more. Members also get hands-on experience at the apiary.
As a CGBA member, you also become a member of the Oregon State Beekeepers Association, connecting you to the statewide beekeeping community.
The Pollinator Garden & Extension Hives
Our association hives are located in the Pollinator Garden at the Hood River Extension Service. The Pollinator Garden is maintained by the Hood River County Master Gardeners, who participate in supporting our hives and promoting pollinator-friendly planting. It's a wonderful collaboration between our organizations — the bees help pollinate the garden, and the garden provides forage for the bees.
The Gorge Beekeeping Environment
The Columbia Gorge presents unique challenges and opportunities for beekeepers. Our east-west climate gradient means conditions can vary dramatically — from the wet western end to the dry eastern plateaus. Local forage includes:
- West end: Blackberry, clover, and wildflowers
- Mid-Gorge: Fruit orchards — cherry, apple, pear
- East end: Sage, rabbitbrush, and dryland wildflowers
Our members share knowledge specific to these local conditions, including managing Varroa mites, preparing for Gorge wind events, and timing seasonal tasks for our microclimates.
Board & Leadership
CGBA is led by an elected board of volunteer members. Board elections are held at the October meeting each year, and newly elected board members begin their service at the start of the following year. If you're interested in serving on the board, let us know at any meeting or get in touch.
History
CGBA has been serving the Gorge beekeeping community for years, bringing together hobbyist and commercial beekeepers alike. We're a dedicated group going through an exciting period of growth and renewal, and we'd love to have you join us.