Beekeepers in NH Struggle with Climate Change

In a remarkable turn of events this season, veteran beekeeper Alexander has encountered unprecedented challenges in managing his hives. With over 50 years of experience, he notes that this year’s conditions have led to an overwhelming production of honey, surpassing the storage capacity of the upper chambers of his hives. This surge in honey production poses significant risks, as worker bees, which have a short lifespan, must be constantly replaced by the queen, who lays thousands of eggs daily. To address the issue, Alexander has taken proactive measures by clearing out the brood chambers to create more space for the queen to lay eggs. The summer months are critical for hive activity, and the risk of swarming—where bees leave the hive in search of a new home—can jeopardize the colony's stability. As beekeeping has evolved, the demands on beekeepers have increased, requiring a deeper understanding of hive management and the ability to respond to the bees' needs. Additionally, mild winter temperatures have led to premature hive abandonment, leaving bees vulnerable to cold snaps. Alexander emphasizes the importance of diligent hive management to prevent such losses. As he prepares for the fall, he is committed to finding new queens for any swarmed hives and ensuring their growth, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by beekeepers in adapting to changing environmental conditions.