George Watkins's family has been in the Apalachicola area since the late nineteenth century. They've witnessed the sponge trade, the loading of cotton boats, and a booming seafood industry. When George was a eight years old, his grandfather began taking him out fishing on weekends. Right then, George knew he wanted to be a fisherman. Over the years he has harvested just about everything the bay has to offer. But one day George decided to take up beekeeping. He says it was because he just liked honey. Like everything else George does, he threw himself into beekeeping with a passion. He started small, but soon he was the top tupelo honey producer in the area. For George, it's not just about the tupelo. It's about the river that nourishes the trees that make the blossoms that make the bees make such wonderful honey.

Scope and Content Note
December 5, 2005:  Amy Evans interviewed George Watkins about his family's history in Apalachicola and their involvement in the fishing industry. Watkins' great-grandfather came from Portugal in the 1800s and engaged in fishing and boat-running. Watkins himself has worked in various aspects of the seafood industry, including shrimping, crabbing, and fishing for pompano. He discusses the different types of shrimp found in the area and shared his career path in the fishing industry, which led him to his current role as a Park Service Specialist. Watkins also talks about his fifteen-year involvement in the bee business, finding it financially rewarding. He discussed the challenges of beekeeping, particularly the production of tupelo honey. He explains the significance of tupelo trees and their blossoms in attracting bees and producing distinct-tasting honey. Watkins mentions the competition from imported honey and the declining interest of young people in beekeeping and food production. The interview covers various aspects of beekeeping, including honey production and sales. Watkins discussed the process of maintaining bee boxes, extracting honey, and treating bees with antibiotics. He also mentions his other occupations, such as shrimping and boat maintenance. In addition to his professional pursuits, Watkins expressed interest in tapping into the tourist industry, establishing co-ops in the seafood industry, and entering the restaurant business. He discusses his experience making honey mead and his passion for cooking and eating local seafood. The interview concluded with Watkins sharing his emotional connection to Apalachicola Bay and the beauty of its natural surroundings.

March 22, 2006: In this follow-up interview, Amy Evans interviews George Watkins at his bee yard near Sumatra, Florida. They discuss various aspects of beekeeping, including the use of a smoker to calm the bees, the presence of bears in the area, and the challenges faced by beekeepers such as mite infestations and the need for land sites. Watkins explains the impact of mites on bee colonies, the importance of maintaining healthy combs, and the necessity of liability insurance for beekeepers. They also briefly discuss the beekeeping process and Watkins' plans for the day, which include checking on the hives and providing extra boxes for honey production. The interview concludes with photographs taken in the bee yard.