Autumn: Time for a lesson about the Birds and the Bees, pumpkin patches, apple pies and curious corn mazes are all part of autumn’s magic, but lets not forget the birds and the bees! Sonoma County is a rich tapestry of diverse agriculture, and two of the most interesting discoveries are certainly the many hens and beehives. Watch as the young ones stare in wonder as they pick up a fresh laid chicken egg, or learn with their parents how to bring chicks home for their own little flock. Equally amazing are the bee resources in the area – there are a slew of spots to delve into the world of these important pollinators, whether you decide to stardt your own hive or just bring back a jar of golden honey to share with friends. You may have heard of Bee Kind, a wonderful resource for anyone interested in keeping their own bees, or Judy’s Farm whose eggs are trucked to kitchen all over the Bay Area, but there are some fun smaller finds that complement these more established places. Here are some of the spots I love in the southern part of Sonoma County (many are located in the Sonoma Farm Trails map); they are a mix of learning, adventure, tasty treats, and sustainable know-how – the best kind of invisible souvenir:
Rose and Thorn – While there are a wonderful assortment of pumpkins and preserves, hot cider and other classic fall treats, Rose and Thorn is where the kids can pet goats, chase chickens, and the parents can go home with some fresh eggs and even an original piece of art made by local craftspeople. The animal corral and the scented garden areas are highlights any time of year. First Fridays the gift shop offers 20% for ladies, but you can visit any time 11a-5:30p Thursday through Monday also. 10050 Bodega Hwy, Sebastopol, 707.823.9467, www.roseandthornca.com
Sonoma Beekeepers’ Association – Meet the locals and learn all about the bees and their keepers in this gracious county at one of the open-attendance Beekeepers’ Association meetings. They are held the second Monday of each month from 7-9p at the Sonoma County 4-H Centre behind Rohnert Park Expressway’s Grocery Outlet (cross street Commerce Boulevard). Listen to bee problems get solved, and ask questions – there is no attitude here even if you’re a novice. Come in November with a potluck goody for the annual dinner, complete with fun awards and door prizes. If you’re a local you’ll surely be interested in becoming a member, $25 annually. This is one great group. Meeting location: 6445 Commerce Blvd, Rohnert Park, www.sonomabees.org
Bloomfield Bees and Honey – One of the most incredible ways to experience bees is by the side of the beekeepers at Bloomfield Bees and Honey. Follow them carefully around the hives, which are specially placed around certain flowering plants to produce many honey flavors like apple blossom, star thistle and blackberry. Take home some comb honey for your next dinner part – it is east to impress your friends with a spread of fine local cheeses smeared with this tasty stuff. These are also great people to talk to when it comes to getting your own hive, or removing one (and having it go to a good home) if you notice a hive in a “sticky” location. No need to call first, just show up any day from 9a to dusk. Find these honeys at local farmers markets too! 1295 Bloomfield Rd, Sebastopol, 707.836.7278 www.bloomfieldbeeshoney.com
Ranch Hag Hens – One simple call and you could be meeting a new part of your family: your own backyard chickens! Everything you need is here from helpful advice, supplies, and various kinds of colorful chicks, some of which produce beautiful bluish eggs. Call ahead to plan your visit, and bring the kids if you’ve got ‘em! 541 Eastman Ln, Petaluma, 707.480.8401, www.ranchhaghens.com
Two other honey spots that shouldn’t be missed:
Lavender Bee Farm – 764 Chapman Ln, Petaluma, 707.789.0554, www.lavenderbeefarm.com
Hector’s Honey Farm – 2794 Fulton Rd, Fulton, 707.579.9416, hectorshoneybees@sbcglobal.net