Yes, I met with Melissa from Maple Pot Honey Farm at the farmers market, and also her husband was there with her. It was a little smaller than I expected it to be, but I honestly enjoyed that it was smaller, it was more quaint, and it was nice seeing the last one of the year, everybody was very friendly. Prior to going I was wondering what kinds of honey they made, and if they only make honey and maple syrup or if they have any other things that they make. I found out that they have tons of different kinds of honey like blackberry, lavender, and all kinds of stuff. I also found out that they have chickens, and they keep them for the eggs.
1. 8 farmer’s market’s around Salem, 1 a week (other locations: Tewksbury, North Reading, Haverhill, Stoneham)
2. This farm has chickens, provides eggs year round
3. About 50 beehives
4. Profit - a free commodity dependent on bees, safe to say around $250
5. Bees pollinate on their own during the summer, but in winter fed sugar water
6. It takes 1 bee 6 weeks to make 1 tablespoon of honey; for 1 jar, a week and half for the whole hive
7. Farm located in Wilmington
8. Children work on the farm with them for cookies and treats
9. Hive dies without the queen
10. Unlike storebought honey, theirs isn't pasteurized
11. Lip balm is made with leftover beeswax
I really enjoyed this, and thought it was a good experience for us to better become part of the community. It helped get us new students out there and figure out what it is we like about the community, and just walk around and get a feel for things.