Become a member of ABKA
Join a friendly community of Beekeepers
Membership & Waiting List
Whether you're completely new to beekeeping, thinking about keeping bees in the future, or already have years of experience, we'd be delighted to hear from you.
Ashford & District Beekeepers Association is home to a friendly and supportive community of approximately 180 members. Our members include beginners, hobby beekeepers and experienced beekeepers who come together to learn, share knowledge, support one another and promote the conservation of Ireland's native honey bee, Apis mellifera mellifera.
As demand for membership regularly exceeds the number of places available, membership is managed through an annual renewal process and a waiting list. Existing members are invited to renew their membership during the fourth quarter of each year. Once renewals have been completed, any available places are offered to those on our waiting list in the order that applications are received.
If you would like to become part of our Association, we invite you to join our waiting list.
We look forward to welcoming you to ABKA when a membership place becomes available.
Membership Benefits
As an ABKA member you can enjoy
- Regular meetings and educational talks
- Access to our Association Apiary Practical beekeeping demonstrations
- Mentoring and support from experienced members
- Participation in workshops and special events
- Opportunities to contribute to local biodiversity and pollinator awareness
- Access to members-only resources and guidance
Who Can Join?
We welcome applications from anyone with an interest in:
- Beekeeping
- Honey bees and other pollinators
- Biodiversity and nature conservation
- Learning new skills
- Supporting the conservation of Ireland's native honey bee
No previous beekeeping experience is required. Whether you're taking your first steps into beekeeping or have many years of experience, you'll find a friendly and supportive community at ABKA.
Our Ethos
ABKA is built on cooperation, friendship, kindness, and respect.
We believe that knowledge should be shared freely and that everyone benefits when members work together in a supportive, non-competitive environment. Our Association values generosity of spirit, learning from one another, and making a positive contribution to our beekeeping community.
Membership Fees
Membership fees are reviewed annually by the Association.
Applicants who are offered a membership place will be provided with details of the current membership subscription and payment arrangements before completing their registration.
Join Our Waiting List
If you would like to become a member of Ashford & District Beekeepers Association, please complete the waiting list application form below.
Once we receive your application, you will be added to our waiting list and will receive a confirmation email. Membership places are offered following the annual renewal process, with available places allocated in the order that applications are received.
When a membership place becomes available, a member of the Executive Committee will contact you with details of membership fees, the benefits of membership and the next steps to complete your registration.
We appreciate your interest in joining ABKA and look forward to welcoming you to our Association.
Photos capture the beauty of flourishing hives and golden
honey.
Enquire about Membership