Why Bees? Why not? 

The story of how bees came to be part of Whiskey Creek Ranch is one of simplicity & sensibility. Whether you are raising cattle or crops your operation relies on those magical little greens called plants. And what are plants without pollinators? Not much. ​

In 2021  Clay Williams started a hobby that would eventually turn into a budding enterprise full of ecosystem benefits, called The Apiary. With initial interest in making some honey for his family, Clay and crew have expanded their beekeeping over acres across the Special Areas, providing pollination, plant hybridity and yes, some delicious sweet, sticky honey. 

Beekeeping is a family affair at Whiskey Creek. Pictured here is Barrett (4) helping check beehive health.

Sustainable Agriculture. 

Plants, pollinators & ruminants have always danced an intricate dance on the prairies. To explain it simply: the pollinators help the plants grow, the ruminants (then buffalo, now cattle) eat the plants, and release nutrients back into the soil that the microbes need to feed the plants. Its all one beautiful cycle, but it needs everyone to do their part. By providing more pollinators on the landscape, Whiskey Creek Ranch is super charging nature's cycle, allowing her to do what she does best- sustainability. 

Pastures at Whiskey Creek Ranch are full of diversity, including one of Jesse's favorite natives- Blanket Flower (Gallardia aristata)

Heifers & Honey.

Having successful pollination is key to improved yields, increased plant diversity and the natural selection of plant species across the world. While you may picture primarily self-pollinating grass species on the western prairies, there are hundreds of flowering broadleaf species that call it home, too. And these plants rely on pollinators- both native & introduced- to do the job. From alfalfa & flax crops to native goldenrod & crocus, nature delicately designed cows as the caretakers of the prairies, and bees were sent to help. All of the hives at Whiskey Creek are positioned on grazing paddocks, right alongside their cattle. While the bees do forage nearby crops during their travels, they are first inspired to help pollinate & prosper in the pastures close-by. 

Taste the Prairies.