TS’ De Noni: An environmental entrepreneurship program for youth to learn about beekeeping production and gain business experience

TS’ De Noni youth environmental entrepreneurship program is an opportunity for local youth from elementary to high school ages to learn more about beekeeping through activities like beehive inspections, honey harvesting and bees-wax salve making. 

“The process we worked with about 15 youths showing them the basics of the hive and bee development and we also made honey,” said Allen Rode a consultant with the Bear River Rancheria tribe. “We stumbled across the name TS’ De Noni which means ‘where the bears play” and I thought that that was an appropriate name.”

Rode adds that the name of the program, TS’ De Noni, fits well because just like how the bears enjoy play time so do the youth. Beyond enjoying the outdoors and receiving a hands-on experience the youth will also be educated in environmental education and the business process. The program includes the youth being taught sales and marketing production to gain the skills needed if they ever want to start a small business themselves in the future.

“I think one of the biggest aspects that I’ve learned through this whole program and partnering with our garden coordinator, Bonnie Parker, is the aspect of food sovereignty which is knowing where your food comes from,” said Shannon Lamb the wildlife technician for Bear River Rancheria. “I think that’s really important to people because food is such a such an important aspect of happiness, comfort and community.”Youths ages that range from elementary and high school are encouraged to attend the weekly sessions of the TS’ De Noni environmental entrepreneurship program. Parents and guardians can receive more information by calling these two numbers (707) 601-9592 and (562)708-721. People can also email at beerode2020@gmail.com or shannonlamb@brb-nsn.gov.