Thanks again for the book recommendations. Bush's website is very informative and I will order some other books next paycheck. So, thanks for helping the "bee"ophyte out. (disambiguation: beeophyte = bee+ neophyte)
Below are individual responses, they may more or less be off topic, but came up
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Edward: Just as you advised, I don't intend to start big. I believe I will get into bee keeping similar to your approach. My first year I hope to have 4-5 hives while I learn. I also intend to take your advice on queen rearing, which should also be fun and make will make me a better beekeeper as well as potentially providing a source of income. Maybe I will eventually go bee hunting as well :D. I also plan to find work with a commercial beekeeper for the "hands on" experience and first hand knowledge. So thank you very much as well as for the OSU link. I will look into that.
MBeck: Regarding the question of organic honey, it is possible. TO my understanding bees stay within a 5ive mile radius(maybe 3mi.) of their hive. Therefore keep your hives 5 miles away from any "non-organic" source and your honey will be organic. Also there are standards for certification as organic which can be followed.
Bud1: Regarding a natural approach, it isn't the status quo but that does not mean it is impossible. If it is possible I will do it. I intend to find out... gradually. There may only be one way to make it the MOST profitable(the status quo), but I am willing to make less money and practice beekeeping using the methods I see fit.
Regarding the "state" of commercial beekeeping that has been shared with me.
Again, "Ignorance is not bliss; it is unconsciousness and slavery" -John Dewey
So, once again thank you.
P.S. every time I use the verb "be" I'm soooo tempted to write "bee". Eventually I'm sure I will give in.