Behind the Buzz: All About Christy Creek Honey
Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Alberta, Christy Creek Honey isn’t just a farm—it’s a haven for bees, nature, and the community it serves. “Tours, Honey, and All Things Bees” is more than a motto for Christy Creek Honey; it encapsulates their mission to educate, inspire, and delight. When we reached out to the passionate owners of Christy Creek Honey, their love for beekeeping and sustainability was evident. Through a delightful questionnaire, we explored their story, practices, and why water is so vital to their operation. Here’s a closer look at what makes Christy Creek Honey so special.
How It All Started
Every beekeeper has a unique story of how they fell in love with the craft. For the owners of Christy Creek Honey, it was a combination of curiosity and a desire to contribute to Alberta’s ecosystem. They began their journey with just a couple of hives and, over the years, turned their passion into a thriving apiary. Their mission is simple: to produce high-quality, natural honey while prioritizing the health of their bees and the environment.
When asked about their favourite part of beekeeping, the owners shared, “There’s nothing quite like watching the hive activity on a sunny day. The bees’ coordination, dedication, and teamwork are inspiring. It’s a reminder of how interconnected we all are.”
Water: The Lifeblood of Christy Creek Honey
Water is essential for life, and Christy Creek Honey understands its importance not just for their farm but for the delicate balance of Alberta’s ecosystem. Their operation relies on three main water sources:
- A Well for Household Needs: The farm’s underground well is used sparingly for household purposes and is rarely tapped for outdoor activities.
- Rainwater Collection: In a beautifully sustainable practice, the farm collects rainwater to nourish their flowers, garden, and greenhouse. This ensures that the plants thrive without placing extra strain on local water resources.
- A Small Lake and Dugout: These water bodies serve multiple purposes. Beyond moistening the surrounding land, they provide a habitat for wildlife, a resting place for migratory birds, and a refreshing oasis for local flora and fauna. The owners cherish the sight of ducks and geese stopping by during their spring and fall migrations.
When it comes to beekeeping, water is an indispensable resource. Bees collect water for various purposes, including:
- Temperature Regulation: Bees use water to cool down their hives during hot summer days, ensuring the brood (baby bees) remain comfortable and healthy.
- Honey Production: Water plays a role in the process of converting nectar into honey—a task the bees perform with remarkable efficiency.
- Hive Maintenance: From mixing it with pollen to create brood food to maintaining overall hive health, water is central to their survival.
The farm owners remarked, “Water is the base for both healthy plants and healthy hives. Without it, nectar wouldn’t flow as long, and plants wouldn’t thrive. We’re grateful to have natural and sustainable water sources that not only support our bees but also enrich the land around us.”
A Commitment to Sustainability
Sustainability is at the heart of Christy Creek Honey’s operations. They’re not just producing honey; they’re fostering a thriving ecosystem. By using rainwater collection, they reduce their reliance on external water sources, ensuring that their environmental footprint remains minimal. The small lake and dugout are also managed responsibly to maintain their role as a habitat for wildlife and a resource for the bees. 
The owners believe that caring for the environment is as much a responsibility as it is a privilege. Their approach to sustainability extends beyond water use, encompassing land stewardship, ethical beekeeping practices, and education. Visitors to their farm often leave with a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of nature and the hard work that goes into producing every jar of honey.
Why Bees Matter
The importance of bees cannot be overstated. They’re responsible for pollinating a significant portion of the crops we rely on for food. At Christy Creek Honey, the bees have access to a diverse range of forage, including crops, trees, and flowers. This diversity not only supports honey production but also ensures the health of the local ecosystem.
“Bees collect four things to keep their hives healthy: water, sap, nectar, and pollen. Each plays a crucial role in maintaining the hive’s balance,” the owners explained. “Our job is to make sure they have access to these resources while keeping their environment as natural and stress-free as possible.”
A Day in the Life at Christy Creek Honey
For the owners, every day on the farm brings new challenges and rewards. From checking the hives and ensuring the bees are healthy to maintaining the gardens and monitoring water sources, the work is never-ending but deeply fulfilling. They’ve learned to read the rhythms of nature, adapting their practices to the changing seasons and the needs of their bees.
“It’s not just about the honey,” they said. “It’s about the entire process. It’s about the bees, the flowers, the water, the soil—everything working together. That’s what makes it so rewarding.”
A Sweet Future
As Christy Creek Honey looks to the future, they remain committed to their mission of producing high-quality honey while supporting the environment. They’re excited to welcome visitors during the 2025 Alberta Open Farm Days, offering a behind-the-scenes look at their operation and a chance to learn about the fascinating world of bees. Until then, keep up with the buzz by following Christy Creek Honey on social media: Christy Creek Honey Facebook page and Christy Creek Honey Instagram page.
“We want people to see how much care goes into every drop of honey,” the owners shared. “It’s a labor of love, and we’re thrilled to share it with others.” 
Mark Your Calendar
The 2025 Alberta Open Farm Days will be taking place on August 16 & 17th. Until then, be sure to follow along on our website and social media channels for all the latest updates, stories, and more!