 Deep boxes with recently replaced foundation to be put on later in March. Photo by Eric Malcolm, 3/4/2026 | Time in Barn: 2 hours 30 minutes Total Colonies: 24 Temperature (°F): Hi: 56° Low: 25° Avg: 37.1° Total Precipitation: 0.69” |
Actions:
No bee work done.
Worked in barn to remove old foundation and clean 90 Deep frames that had mouse or wax moth damage. Replaced with new foundation. We plan to add these in mid or late March to be drawn out with wax. Started preparing equipment to make splits.
Observations:
We had 3 days in the 50°s this week and are starting to feel the urge to get out to inspect colonies. Last year, first inspections were completed on the first week of March and we felt very prepared with data supporting our early season management decisions to prevent swarming and Varroa infestation.
Reflections:
We are grateful for being able to take time to carefully plan and prepare for making splits and requeening colonies before spring arrives. This practice will help us avoid the loss of bees and honey due to swarming while reducing stress when the time approaches to take action.
Things in bloom: Crocus, American Witch-hazel, Snowdrop
No bee work done.
Worked in barn to remove old foundation and clean 90 Deep frames that had mouse or wax moth damage. Replaced with new foundation. We plan to add these in mid or late March to be drawn out with wax. Started preparing equipment to make splits.
Observations:
We had 3 days in the 50°s this week and are starting to feel the urge to get out to inspect colonies. Last year, first inspections were completed on the first week of March and we felt very prepared with data supporting our early season management decisions to prevent swarming and Varroa infestation.
Reflections:
We are grateful for being able to take time to carefully plan and prepare for making splits and requeening colonies before spring arrives. This practice will help us avoid the loss of bees and honey due to swarming while reducing stress when the time approaches to take action.
Things in bloom: Crocus, American Witch-hazel, Snowdrop