Jana Patterson, PUB Apiary Manager
Portland, OR – Certified 2025
Proficiencies: Three season pollinator gardening for honey bees and Oregon native pollinators; Honey Bee Pests and Diseases
Capstone Project: Developed and implemented a new honey bee program at a Beaverton School District high school. Students set up and learned how to manage their school apiary.
I got started with beekeeping in 2020. I started by reading Dewey Caron’s book before I got my nuc. I was intrigued that there was so much more to learn about bees than I had ever imagined. I found out about the OMB program and immediately enrolled.
I enjoyed all the learning in the apprentice and journey levels. For me, though, it all came together in the master level. I was able to combine my passion for bees, teaching/mentoring and giving back to the community in my capstone project. Having to teach others, both at the high school and as an OMB mentor, really solidified all that I had learned.
I’ve gained so much knowledge about honey bees and beekeeping. I know there is so much more to learn. After going through OMB, I now have the tools and connections to continue learning and growing as a beekeeper.