The East Lothian Beekeepers Association (ELBKA) is one of Scotland's oldest beekeeping associations, with roots dating back to 1887 when it was founded through the efforts of the Reverend John Kerr of Dirleton. Reformed in 1946, the association has seen a strong resurgence in recent years, with membership now at its highest level for twenty years. The association keeps bees both at members' individual apiaries and at a shared association apiary used for teaching and practical training. East Lothian provides an exceptionally rich environment for beekeeping, benefiting from a relatively warm and sunny climate, fertile soils, lime trees planted in the grounds of historic estates, and an abundance of heather across the Lammermuirs — all contributing to a distinctive and varied local honey. ELBKA produces honey that is available for purchase at several local retail outlets across the area. The association is actively involved in education, running beginner's courses, winter lectures, apiary visits, and an annual honey competition held at the AGM in January. Membership is open to all for an annual fee of £5.
