The PDNBKA Urban Apiary is a small, public-facing learning apiary hosted at Mustard Seed Café on the far West Side of El Paso. It serves as a hands-on education site where members can learn practical hive management, observe seasonal hive changes, and build confidence through guided inspections. This apiary also supports our mission of promoting responsible beekeeping, mentorship, and community education across Southern New Mexico and Far West Texas.
About the Urban Apiary
The PDNBKA Urban Apiary is a learning-focused apiary located at Mustard Seed Café in El Paso, TX. This site provides PDNBKA members with a hands-on opportunity to observe honey bees, learn practical hive management skills, and gain confidence through real-world experience.
We are grateful to Mustard Seed Café for hosting and supporting this apiary. Their partnership allows PDNBKA to offer education and mentorship opportunities in a welcoming, community-centered location.
Location
Mustard Seed Café
201 E Sunset Rd
El Paso, TX 79922
This location also serves as a regular meeting venue for PDNBKA in El Paso.
What This Apiary Is Used For
- Hands-on education through guided hive inspections
- Practical learning opportunities for new and beginning beekeepers
- Mentorship and knowledge-sharing with experienced PDNBKA members
- Demonstrations of hive equipment, bee biology, and seasonal management
- Support for outreach and public education when appropriate
Urban Beekeeping in Our Region
Beekeeping in the desert borderlands presents unique challenges, including heat management, limited water availability, and seasonal forage patterns. The Urban Apiary helps members learn what works locally and provides a space to discuss practical solutions specific to Southern New Mexico and Far West Texas.
What to Bring & What to Wear
For your safety and comfort during apiary visits, participants are encouraged to come prepared.
- Bee suit or jacket (veil required)
- Closed-toe shoes or boots
- Long pants and light-colored clothing
- Water, sun protection, and weather-appropriate attire
Hive tools, smokers, and shared equipment may be provided during organized sessions.
Safety Guidelines
Safety is a priority at the Urban Apiary. Please follow these guidelines during all visits:
- Only open hives during scheduled inspections or training sessions
- Follow instructions from the session lead or mentor
- Do not approach hives without proper protective gear
- Notify organizers in advance if you have known bee sting allergies
These guidelines help protect both participants and the bees.
A PDNBKA Membership Benefit
Access to the Urban Apiary is a benefit of PDNBKA membership. Members gain opportunities for hands-on learning, mentorship, and participation in guided inspections throughout the active beekeeping season.
This apiary supports PDNBKA’s mission to provide practical, locally relevant education and to build confident, responsible beekeepers in our region.
Visiting & Participation
Apiary visits and inspections are coordinated through PDNBKA. For safety and respect for the property, please do not approach or open hives unless you are attending an organized inspection or training session.
Planned inspections and learning sessions will be announced through PDNBKA meetings, email updates, and our Facebook groups.
Interested in Learning More?
If you are new to beekeeping, consider joining our Intro to Beekeeping Course and attending our monthly meetings. PDNBKA members also have access to mentorship and a supportive local community of beekeepers.
Questions? Contact us
