Participation Type
Paper
Session Title
Session 8.05 Environment and Ecology
Presentation #1 Title
Mingling with the Bees: Examining Socio-Natural Encounters of Female Beekeepers in Kentucky
Presentation #1 Abstract or Summary
This presentation will review emerging developments at the socio-nature intersections of animal geographies and feminist theory in order to consider various beekeeping practices by women across Kentucky. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, out of the 100 crop species that provide 90% of the food worldwide, 71 of these are bee-pollinated. This number highlights how bees are central actors in the health and wellbeing of humans. Additionally, the emergence of colony collapse disorder and the mysterious decline of bee populations have caused a growth in research on bee biology and modern environmental determinants. It is in the moment of turmoil and transition for bees, that the role of the beekeeper becomes central. By exploring how and why women become involved in smalltime beekeeping, we can gain more nuanced understanding of environmental consciousness and the affective experiences that prompt many women to mingle with bees. Drawing from preliminary dissertation research, I will discuss the role of beekeeping in Kentucky and offer some early findings on where women are keeping bees and what their motivations are, while also highlighting some of the affective moments that surround beekeeping, like experiences of touching, smelling, tasting, and being strung.
At-A-Glance Bio- Presenter #1
Sarah Watson is currently a PhD student in Geography at The University of Kentucky. Sarah's research interest include feminist political ecology, animal geographies, and social theory.
Mingling with the Bees: Examining Socio-Natural Encounters of Female Beekeepers in Kentucky
Corbly Hall 467
This presentation will review emerging developments at the socio-nature intersections of animal geographies and feminist theory in order to consider various beekeeping practices by women across Kentucky. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, out of the 100 crop species that provide 90% of the food worldwide, 71 of these are bee-pollinated. This number highlights how bees are central actors in the health and wellbeing of humans. Additionally, the emergence of colony collapse disorder and the mysterious decline of bee populations have caused a growth in research on bee biology and modern environmental determinants. It is in the moment of turmoil and transition for bees, that the role of the beekeeper becomes central. By exploring how and why women become involved in smalltime beekeeping, we can gain more nuanced understanding of environmental consciousness and the affective experiences that prompt many women to mingle with bees. Drawing from preliminary dissertation research, I will discuss the role of beekeeping in Kentucky and offer some early findings on where women are keeping bees and what their motivations are, while also highlighting some of the affective moments that surround beekeeping, like experiences of touching, smelling, tasting, and being strung.
