Nestled within the diverse ecosystem and vibrant landscape of Black Forest, Colorado, lies a buzzing sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of vital pollinators: Happy Bumble Bees. Founded by the passionate beekeeper Hi-D Bridges, this thriving bee-haven honey farm exemplifies the intersection of community support and sustainable practices in safeguarding our environment.
"MVEA has been absolutely great with helping my particular small business," Hi-D shares. "We utilize electricity during the honey extraction process – specifically LED bulbs. I do the extraction process at night because the bees can smell their honey and they will try to reclaim it and bring it back to the hive."
The journey of Happy Bumble Bees began with Hi-D's deep-rooted appreciation for nature, cultivated since childhood. Hi-D reminisces that from a young age, she’s developed a deep appreciation for the environment and a curiosity about the natural world that her parents actively encouraged. In May 2022, Happy Bumble Bees came to life, driven by Hi-D's commitment to environmental conservation and her desire to protect pollinators through sustainable beekeeping practices. What started as a personal endeavor soon blossomed into a thriving business, and with Hi-D at the helm, one may consider her the 'Queen Bee' of her operation.
Hi-D highlighted the crucial role electricity plays in her beekeeping operations, demonstrating the cooperative's commitment to strengthening community bonds. "The cooperative is really the umbrella that fosters a sense of community and looking out for each other," she remarked. From powering essential equipment for mite treatment to facilitating nighttime honey extraction with LED lighting, the electricity provided by MVEA ensures the efficiency, productivity, and safety of Happy Bumble Bees' operations. MVEA's commitment to renewable energy aligns seamlessly with Happy Bumble Bees' values of sustainability. "We have installed solar panels to help maintain sustainability going forward," Hi-D explains. By harnessing renewable energy sources, Hi-D and her family have further reduced their environmental footprint, exemplifying their dedication to promoting energy efficiency and environmental stewardship.
As Hi-D reflects on her journey as a beekeeper, she emphasizes the importance of community collaboration and individual action in safeguarding the future of bees and our planet. "There’s nothing stronger than a community that comes together," Hi-D asserts. "Having a cooperative that cares about its members is absolutely something I haven't experienced anywhere else." In the buzzing world of Happy Bumble Bees, every honeybee represents a beacon of hope—a testament to the transformative power of community support and sustainable practices. By cultivating partnerships, embracing sustainable practices, and empowering communities, we can pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future—one where pollinators thrive, ecosystems flourish, and the beauty of nature endures for generations to come with the help of a little electricity.