Beekeeping On Orcas Island With Beekeeper Brian Schmitz

Brian Schmitz keeps bees on Orcas Island in Washington's San Juan Islands — a place so peaceful and remote that residents refer to trips to the mainland as "going to America."

A pandemic-era beekeeper turned 30-colony operator, Brian navigates a uniquely temperate maritime climate where the ocean acts as a natural air conditioner. He's also the reigning salmon derby champion at his local American Legion post, a title unchallenged since 2019 — and yes, he's proud of it.

The real action comes when yellow jackets enter the picture. Brian and host Eric Bennett dig into one of the Pacific Northwest's most brutal beekeeping challenges — a pest so aggressive it can take down even a thriving, booming colony.

From hardware cloth entrance reducers to decoy wasp nests to the wildly effective "raw chicken over soapy water" trap, Brian shares every trick in his arsenal. He also opens up about beekeeping ethics, responsible swarm management, and why working his hives brings him the same calm focus he relies on as a professional ship's navigator.

This one's a great listen.

Video Version of This Episode

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