Blackwater Honey Forge is a small, but growing, beekeeping operation located in central New Hampshire. The name is inspired by in part by the nearby Blackwater River. Its crystal-clear water running near my family’s home. The other part “honey forge” is inspired by the bees themselves forging away from what nature provides. These magnificent creatures provide us with honey, wax, propolis, and a focus and calm when working with them that cannot be taken for granted. There’s something special about working with them that’s hard to put into words. The buzz, the smells, and watching these amazing little insects helps me to truly center myself while I’m there and be in the moment.
It is my aim to offer local, raw honey of the highest quality that is completely pure. From hive to jar. Simple. Straightforward. Delicious. The honey is minimally processed to preserve its raw and natural state. It’s only lightly strained to remove larger particles, thus leaving all the goodness like the pollen and wax particles intact. The honey is never heated beyond 105F degrees, doing so can degrade the natural enzymes of the honey.
I love the surprise that each season brings as the honey can change color and flavor notes depending on what was foraged on that year. I love creating a line of beeswax products from lip balm, and beard balm to my lotion bars. It’s a rewarding thing, after all the hard work I (we) put in as the beekeeper(s), to not only enjoy our harvests, but to be able to share them with others. It’s a journey, with a sweet reward at the end.
Within the next season I also hope to be offering spring Nucs for sale as well. Not only will this help support current beekeepers, but I enjoy the idea that if I work hard enough at this, I just may inspire others to keep bees themselves. The venture is deeply rewarding, even through the challenges. Let’s enjoy the ride
“Bee well and Forge on” – Paul Mitrano – Blackwater Honey Forge