[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 194 (Tuesday, November 18, 2025)]
[Senate]
[Page S8201]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       RECOGNIZING BOERNSEN BEES

 Ms. ERNST. Mr. President as chair of the Senate Committee on 
Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an 
outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American 
entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Boernsen 
Bees of Osceola County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.
  Founded in the summer of 2004 in Ocheyedan, IA, Boernsen Bees began 
when Marlene Boernsen and her family transformed a simple backyard 
hobby into a thriving generational enterprise. What started as an 
effort to provide her children with the healthiest and most natural 
foods quickly grew into a passion for beekeeping and a commitment to 
understanding the vital role honeybees play in agriculture and the 
environment. Marlene first introduced her honey to the community 
through local farmers markets, selling raw honey in its purest form. As 
demand increased, the Boernsen family expanded their offerings and grew 
their apiary to more than 400 colonies. Today, Boernsen Bees produces 
more than 18 products, including creamed honey in over 20 flavors, raw 
honey, honey lemonade, body lotions, lip balms, beeswax candles, gift 
sets, and seasonal specialty items. The business also provides bees and 
basic beekeeping supplies, supporting hobbyists and new beekeepers 
across the region as interest in pollinator health continues to grow.
  With a team of five employees, including Marlene's two daughters-in-
law Jill and Mara, Boernsen Bees has grown well beyond its backyard 
origins. The business now sells at its storefront, known as the ``Honey 
House,'' which has become a local destination for families, school 
groups, and community members interested in honey production. In 
addition to in-person sales, Boernsen Bees operates an online store and 
partners with 26 year-round retailers and 4 seasonal locations 
throughout Iowa, Minnesota, and South Dakota. Through sustainable 
practices and a deep respect for nature, Boernsen Bees continues to 
expand while promoting environmental stewardship across the Midwest.
  Marlene and the Boernsen Bees team are deeply committed to their 
community. They participate in local farmers markets throughout the 
spring and summer, helping connect residents with Iowa-made products 
while educating the public about the importance of pollinators. Marlene 
serves as the district 6 director of the Iowa Honey Producers 
Association, IHPA, where she supports fellow beekeepers, coordinates 
regional outreach, and helps lead educational efforts across the State. 
Beyond her involvement with IHPA, Marlene advocates for local food 
producers by engaging with the Osceola County Board of Supervisors on 
initiatives related to community self-governance and small-scale 
agriculture. In February 2025, her leadership earned her a Small 
Business Salute from the Iowa Secretary of State.
  What began as one mother's effort to provide for her family has grown 
into a thriving Iowa business admired well beyond its county line. It 
is my honor to recognize Marlene Boernsen and the entire Boernsen Bees 
team for their dedication, innovation, and service to their community. 
I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best 
in the years to come.

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