Beekeeping is a profession that dates back thousands of years to ancient times, but it retains modern relevance as bees struggle for survival.

The Forest Preserve District of Will County is hoping to do something about that by helping those considering joining the beekeeping ranks through its course, “Bee a Beekeeper: Introduction to Successful Beekeeping.”

Bees are struggling because of colony collapse disorder, and many colonies are dying each year. Veteran beekeeper Mike Rusnak will help those who want to be part of the solution through the six-week workshop that will cover everything from facts about honeybees, information on necessary equipment and stock, hive management and colony dynamics.

“I have a passion for beekeeping – I love it,” Rusnak said. “I hope to find everyone who is interested in learning about beekeeping from me. I want to share what I know.”

Rusnak, a member of the Will County Beekeepers Association, said the course offers a little bit of information each week, which allows people to come back with questions.

“We will go out and install beehives like a brand new beekeeper would do,” Rusnak said. “It is a hands-on class.”

Rusnak has been beekeeping for nearly 20 years. He started out with one hive and grew that to 100. Now he is down to a more manageable 50 hives in various locations. “It is a peaceful endeavor,” Rusnak said.

Rusnak said it is good to get youth involved, as many beekeepers “are up in age.” He said the course also stresses the importance of beekeeping and how beekeepers realize firsthand that flowers are essential to life.

Another reason Rusnak and Forest Preserve District provide the course is that beekeeping encourages the practice of using native plants in gardens and landscaping to provide better habitat for local creatures and heightens the awareness of the need to reduce the use of pesticides and increase natural habitats.

The course is from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays Feb. 19 to March 26 at the Plum Creek Nature Center in Crete Township. The course is for ages 18 and older and costs $50 per person. The workshop fee includes the book “The Backyard Beekeeper” by Kim Flottum.

Registration is at ReconnectWithNature.org or 708-946-2216. More information is at bit.ly/beekeepingfive.

Rob Earnshaw is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.