The Wisconsin Honey Producers Association was established in 1885 as the Wisconsin State Beekeepers Association in order to inform apiary owners about trends in honey production and to serve as a forum to sell honey. In 1919 WSBA affiliated with the Wisconsin Horticulture Society. In 1965 the organization officially changed its name to the Wisconsin Honey Producers Association.
WHPS's most valuable contribution has been its educational program which includes regional and state conventions and the publication of a journal. From 1919 to 1934 this publication was known as Wisconsin Beekeeping. From 1934 through 1945 the journal was issued as a part of the horticulture society's journal. Since 1945 the journal, renamed Badger Bee, has been published as a separate journal.
Throughout its history WHPA has been concerned with the passage of legislation favorable to beekeepers, particularly the control and eradication of bee diseases, standards for beekeeping licenses, and the grading of honey. Other activities include annual Honey Queen contests and promotional exhibits at the Wisconsin State Fair.
