Since others are sharing negative stories about state inspectors, thought I'd share a positive one. In MA, state bee inspections are optional, but you can requ

Since others are sharing negative stories about state inspectors, thought I'd share a positive one. In MA, state bee inspections are optional, but you can request one for free once per year. As a new beekeeper, I found it helpful, as the inspectors were highly knowledgeable and friendly. I ended up deciding to stop keeping bees after two years. My colony died over the winter, so when I sold my equipment, it was helpful to have an official inspection report saying that my equipment was checked and had no signs of disease except for varroa.