Daniel Sarver, Extension Specialist
We have a 2023 topic!
The Importance of Beeswax
Information on the Beekeeping Essay Contest has been posted on the website. The deadline to enter is March 15 and all essays should be submitted via email.
The Beekeeping Essay Contest allows 4-H’ers to use their writing and research skills in developing an essay on a beekeeping-related topic. Cash awards are available to winners on the national and state level.
Although honey bees are much-beloved for honey, bees also produce beeswax that can be used in many ways. For this essay, a 4-H student should discuss why beeswax is so important to the hive (it’s a pantry, it’s a nursery, it’s the dance floor), but also discuss their favorite way to use beeswax outside the hive. Photos of candles, soaps, or lip balms that are made to show the 4-H’er’s skill in using beeswax are welcomed as are recipes or brief instructions.
2023 Rules
• Contest is open to active 4-H club members only. 4-H’ers who have previously placed first, second, or third at the national level are not eligible; other state winners are eligible to re-enter. Failure to meet any one rule will disqualify entry.
• Write on the designated subject only.
• All factual statements and interview references must be cited in a “sources” or “bibliography” list.
• On a separate page, please include a brief biographical statement of the writer including mailing address, email address and phone number.
• Essay must encompass the designated topic in 750 to 1,000 words. Word count does not include sources, works cited or the writer’s biographical statement.
• Essay must be typewritten or computer-generated on single-sided pages and formatted following standard manuscript format using double-spaced type and 12pt font in legible font face.
• Essays will be judged on (a) scope of research, 40%; (b) accuracy, 30%; (c) creativity, 10%; (d) conciseness, 10%; and (e) logical development of the topic, 10%.
• Essayists should not submit essays directly to The Foundation for the Preservation of Honey Bees, Inc. office.
• All entries become the property of the Foundation and may be published or used as it sees fit. No essay will be returned.
Contact Daniel Sarver for more information.
