The sun is setting across the snow-covered rolling hills of
the PalouIse of eastern Washington State . This is the region where I am spending
the winter months with family members. Much
of the country is experiencing an exceptionally strong winter storm, and
beekeepers’ efforts to protect their colonies are being severely tested. Only
in the spring will we find how effectively we prepared our hives for winter.
The colonies relatively free of parasitic mites will survive if their hives are
adequately ventilated, and the colonies have enough stored food that the bees can
readily access. Healthy colonies generate heat by eating honey, the high-energy
food that they make themselves, and vibrating their flight muscles. Bees can generate
a temperature of 104 degrees Fahrenheit in their flight muscles. While I visit
the frigid Pacific Northwest, I am confident that my colonies in Arkansas are
faring well in their stormy weather. Before leaving Arkansas, I measured their
mite loads and ensured that they had plenty of stored food supplies. The bees
are clustered in dry hives.
I am most grateful for the kind sentiments and words of
support provided to me by beekeepers and acquaintances from around the country
and even around the world following the death of Rita, one of the founders of
Peace Bee Farm. As well as being a cheerful and devoted life partner, she was
an integral part of the bee business. Now, other family members are learning
the art and craft of beekeeping. In this cold, wintery holiday season observed
by many of the world’s great religions and traditions, I offer warm wishes that
peace be with you.
--Richard
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