About Us
Inspired by bees. Driven by purpose.
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Our Story
Urban Evergreen Bee Sanctuary began with a simple yet profound belief — that bees hold the wisdom of balance, community, and resilience that humanity deeply needs to remember.
In 2014, our founder, Heather Wood, inspired by her studies in biodynamic farming and beekeeping at The Evergreen State College, envisioned a sanctuary where honey bees could thrive naturally — free from commercial pressures and genetic uniformity. What started as a passion for woven grass hives and biodynamic stewardship grew into a movement for honey bee diversity and education.
Joined by dedicated makers, educators, and dreamers like Katie Schneberg, Scott Bishop, John O’Brien, and Elda Hall, Urban Evergreen Bee Sanctuary evolved into a collaborative network of bee guardians, artists, and teachers. Together, we craft hives, teach young learners, write songs for the bees, and nurture a thriving community rooted in respect for nature’s rhythm.
Today, we continue to build on that foundation — cultivating harmony between humans and pollinators, promoting genetic diversity in honey bees, and inspiring future generations to protect the heart of our ecosystem. Our story is still unfolding, written with every swarm saved, every hive built, and every person inspired to care for the bees.
What We Do
Pollinator Protection
We create safe, pesticide-free habitats for honeybees and native bees, ensuring their survival for future generations.
Sustainable Beekeeping
From sun hives to top bar hives, we promote natural beekeeping practices that put the well-being of bees first.
Community Education
Through workshops, volunteer programs, and hands-on hive building, we teach people how to live in harmony with pollinators.
Habitat Restoration
We partner with local communities to plant pollinator-friendly gardens and restore ecosystems that support wildlife diversity.
With Your Help, We are Making The World a Better Place
Your support fuels bee diversity, inspires new beekeepers, and keeps the heartbeat of our planet alive.
Become a volunteer today
Meet the People Behind the Buzzing
Heather Wood
Katie Schneberg
Scott Bishop
John O’Brien
Elda Hall
Norman T. McVeigh
Heather Wood of Olympia, WA, founded the Urban Evergreen Bee Sanctuary in 2014 after studying biodynamic farming and beekeeping at The Evergreen State College. She became passionate about introducing woven grass hives and other alternative hive styles to the public to promote honey bee genetic diversity. Heather continues to serve as Executive Director, inspiring new beekeepers and encouraging honey bee longevity. She leads learning groups, hive-building workshops, youth education programs, and even engages communities through honey bee-inspired songwriting.
Katie Schneburg brings exceptional organization, creativity, and craftsmanship to the Urban Evergreen Bee Sanctuary. Her skills in videography and woodworking are matched by her humor and uplifting spirit, making her an invaluable part of the team. Katie is pictured with a stack of top bar hives she hand-built at UEBS, designed by Corwin Bell. She continues to serve as a dedicated board member of over 11 years, supporting the sanctuary’s mission with steady passion and care.
Scott Bishop has played a vital role in the growth of the Urban Evergreen Bee Sanctuary, helping to build hundreds of hives with unwavering dedication and generosity. Though not currently a board member, Scott continues to support the organization with the same steadfast spirit of service that has made him an enduring part of the UEBS community.
John O’Brien is the original Secretary of the Urban Evergreen Bee Sanctuary, recognized for his expertise as a biodynamic farmer, skilled beekeeper, and world musician. His deep knowledge of sustainable practices and creative spirit continue to inspire the sanctuary’s mission and community.
Elda Hall is an artist and mental health therapist who brings warmth, creativity, and deep reverence for nature to the Urban Evergreen Bee Sanctuary. As a wife, mother, and grandmother, she nurtures both people and the planet through her work. Beyond the sanctuary, Elda shares her gifts with Genuine Healthcare of the Pacific Northwest and the NeuroStride Foundation, freeze-dries nature’s fruit harvests, and supports her ultra-running family. Her compassion and dedication make her an inspiring and invaluable member of the UEBS community.
After 32 years in the Army National Guard as Harbor Master on the Tacoma Tide Flats, Camp Murray, Norman retired into glass fusing and working as a bass player in his original 1953 rock and roll band, The Rhythm Rockets, the first rock and roll band in Kitsap County. Norm was a child prodigy on the violin, playing the Hollywood Bowl when he was just 6 years old. Norman was raised in a vaudeville troupe of his dad and siblings touring Washington State in the 1940s and 50s. Norm is an animal lover who has had years long friendships with his seagull on the Tacoma tide flats, squirrels, cats and his first dog. Norman loves all bees and can harken back to a time when beehives were a common site: "Everyone seemed to have a beehive." horses* (all animals communicate with Norm). (skilled shuffleboard and billiards player, plays blindfolded to win!).