As winter temperatures set in, apiarists and beekeepers are turning to innovative solutions to ensure the well-being of their colonies.
One such breakthrough is the “Hive Hugger,” a non-ventilation design that not only preserves moisture but also effectively insulates beehives to reduce winter weather stress and decrease honey consumption.
Created by Peggy DeSanto, the Hive Hugger has undergone preliminary studies in collaboration with the University of Minnesota Bee Lab, showing remarkable results. Compared to traditional tar paper hives, the product maintains hive temperatures 15 to 50 degrees warmer.
“The Hive Hugger hives ran 15 to 50° warmer and required 30- to 50-percent less honey consumption by the bees during winter,” noted
DeSanto.
This solution could help address the critical issue of winter losses while promoting resource efficiency. In regions with harsh winters, where approximately 55 percent of bee colonies are lost, this new product could potentially cut that percentage down to about 27 percent.
From “right to repair” to investigations into the “Big Four” meatpackers, antitrust issues were a major legal topic in 2025 and promise to have a long-term impact on the agriculture industry in the future.
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Secretary Rollins also met with specialty crop producers at a local strawberry farm to discuss workforce needs and the Trump Administration’s recent wins related to significantly cutting the cost of H-2A labor for California farmers.
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Prompt removal of Christmas trees and careful handling of decorations reduce winter fire risk during an already high-demand season for emergency services.
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AFBF Economist Faith Parum provides analysis and perspective on the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program—what commodity growers should know and potential remedies for producers facing crop losses where that aid falls short.
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Farmer Bridge payments are being used primarily to reduce debt and protect cash flow, not drive new spending. Curt Blades with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers joined us to provide insight into the ag equipment market and the factors influencing sales.
January 08, 2026 08:00 AM
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Long-term demand uncertainty is reshaping specialty crop strategies as producers adapt to fewer, older consumers.
January 07, 2026 08:01 AM
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FarmHER Nikki Boxler, aka The Maple Farmer, blends tradition with innovation, tapping into a bold new future for maple syrup.
January 06, 2026 04:00 PM
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Record yields are cushioning production declines, but softer prices underscore the importance of cost control and market timing for vegetable growers.
December 28, 2025 08:00 AM
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Fewer acres and stronger prices suggest disciplined hop production is supporting market balance despite lower output.
December 25, 2025 06:00 PM
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