Interview with Greg Rye, owner
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: Five years ago, a neighbor gave me an old beehive. I have been at it since that day and the business is growing each year. Dakota Bees offers beehive removals from homes, capturing swarms, bee rescue for tree removals and much more. I have worked every part of the bee business.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: Dakota Bees is a full-service beekeeping shop where you can learn beekeeping, get beekeeping supplies and extract your honey right here at the outlet store. We manufacture high-quality beehives right here in Colorado.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: The best part about the beekeeping business is the people. Beekeepers are the nicest people you could ever meet. Each day is a joy for me talking with beekeepers.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: Meeting the demand for bees and beekeeping equipment, as backyard beekeeping has become very popular.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: That there are 841 species of native bees in Colorado. Also, I spend a lot of time volunteering and speaking about native bee conservation and beekeeping. We also try to get people involved in providing habitat for native bees and plantings for bees.
Profile
Business: Dakota Bees
Address: 10090 W. 27th Ave., Wheat Ridge
Hours: Noon-7 p.m. Monday through Friday, noon-5 p.m. Saturday
Founded: 2010
Contact: 720-621-7305,
Employees: Varies
