The Poor Prole’s Almanac

This episode continues the saga of American Energy Farming Systems (AEFS) and its audacious attempt to build an agricultural empire on the back of the Jerusalem artichoke. Hosts Andy and Elliot further examine the company's dubious tactics, increasingly desperate attempts to create a market for their miracle crop, and the growing skepticism from experts and authorities. The Gospel of the Jerusalem Artichoke: AEFS's Sales Pitch and Cultish Tactics AEFS goes beyond simply promoting the Jerusalem artichoke; it positions the crop as a divinely ordained path to prosperity and even incorporates religious faith into its sales pitch. The episode highlights the company's deep ties to evangelical Christianity, noting that its initial sales list came from the membership of a regional radio show called "Prayer Power", hosted by Pastor Pete. AEFS's first employee is John Peterson, Pastor Pete's son, further blurring the lines between faith and business. The company integrates religious elements into its daily operations, starting workdays with prayer services and incorporating organ music into its events. AEFS even goes as far as encouraging its employees to pray for the failure of corn crops, hoping that farmers, faced with economic hardship, would turn to the Jerusalem artichoke as a salvation. AEFS uses various tactics to attract investors, including: Promising an escrow account: For every dollar spent on seed, 50 cents would be kept back, creating the illusion of financial security and responsible management. Appealing to a sense of shared purpose: The company positions buyers and growers as a "spiritual family" united in a project for God and the nation. Utilizing high-pressure sales tactics: AEFS employs the "train is leaving" pitch, creating a sense of urgency and encouraging impulsive decisions. Making extravagant claims about industrial uses and imminent demand: Salesmen carry products like spaghetti pellets and jars of alcohol, falsely suggesting they are made from Jerusalem artichokes to bolster the idea of existing demand. Exaggerating potential profits: AEFS claims that an acre of Jerusalem artichokes could yield 45 to 65 tons of tubers, a figure exceeding even the highest-producing corn crops, which yield around two tons per acre. This claim, however, ignores the reality that there is no established market or infrastructure for processing and selling such quantities of Jerusalem artichokes. To further bolster its image and foster a sense of community, AEFS celebrates growers' birthdays and anniversaries, sponsors contests for the tallest plant and best school speeches about the artichoke, solicits recipes from growers' wives, and promotes the exchange of Jerusalem artichoke recipes under the questionable label "breaking loose." These efforts are reminiscent of "love bombing," a manipulation tactic used by cults to foster a sense of belonging and loyalty. Smoke and Mirrors: Fabricating Success and Hiding the Truth AEFS uses various methods to create the illusion of legitimacy and future success: Partnering with independent news organizations: AEFS collaborates with publicist Willetta Warburg and other individuals to publish questionable articles that promote the Jerusalem artichoke's potential. Misrepresenting facilities: Potential investors are flown in to see the large Marshall corn processing plant, falsely presented as belonging to AEFS. Exploiting the digestive side effects of Jerusalem artichokes: After signing contracts, prospective growers are treated to a "smorgasbord" of fresh artichoke foods that are deliberately undercooked, causing digestive discomfort. This tactic, while ethically dubious, further reinforces the idea that the Jerusalem artichoke is a potent and significant crop. Cracks in the Facade: Early Warnings and Growing Skepticism As early as October 1981, the University of Minnesota Agricultural Extension Service issues a memorandum cautioning that AEFS is overestimating the Jerusalem artichoke's yield and potential. Experts also debunk AEFS's claims about the plant's unique nutritional properties, pointing out that all plants get their nutrition from air, sunshine, and water. Despite these warnings, many people remain captivated by the idea of the Jerusalem artichoke. Throughout 1982, AEFS continues to aggressively sell seed contracts, capitalizing on the allure of potential riches. However, criticisms and accusations about the company and its practices mount. Mark Seton, the Minnesota Commissioner of Agriculture, openly questions AEFS's yield claims and announces his intention to investigate the company for possible pyramid scheme activities. The Sioux Falls Argus Leader publishes a critical article questioning the economic viability of Jerusalem artichoke production. The Farmer, an influential agricultural paper, labels the Jerusalem artichoke a "highly speculative venture" due to the lack of existing markets. The article quotes experts who suggest that AEFS may even be growing the wrong variety of Jerusalem artichokes for Northern climates. Legal Troubles Mount: Pyramid Schemes, Monopolies, and Securities Violations The Minnesota attorney general's office initiates an investigation into AEFS's business practices, focusing on potential pyramid schemes, monopolies, and fraud. The investigation prompts AEFS to make superficial changes: Rewriting its literature and contracts Abandoning its attempt to define itself as a shared enterprise to avoid securities regulations Restricting its sales strategy to avoid being classified as a pyramid scheme However, the fundamental problem remains: AEFS cannot identify a viable market for its product. The company's entire business model rests on the fictional value of Jerusalem artichoke seed at $1.20 a pound, a price far exceeding the actual market value. Desperate Measures: AEFS's Futile Attempts to Create a Market As the legal pressure intensifies, AEFS scrambles to find a market for its product: Leasing a small alcohol plant: The plant fails to produce any significant amount of alcohol from Jerusalem artichokes. Attempting to convert a failed food processing plant: The fibrous nature of Jerusalem artichokes proves incompatible with the plant's dryers. Creating a biomass conversion offshoot company: Biomarkets of America, tasked with converting the Jerusalem artichoke into an energy source, also fails to achieve any success. These desperate attempts to create a market for Jerusalem artichokes ultimately prove futile. The company's final bid to sell seed to Archer Daniels Midlands for a mere five cents a pound, a 96% drop from its claimed value, underscores the complete collapse of the Jerusalem artichoke bubble. The Aftermath: Bankruptcy and Denial Unsurprisingly, AEFS declares bankruptcy. Dwyer, in a stunning display of denial, blames the company's failure on "government interference, bad press, employees, and hyper growth." However, former employees offer a more realistic assessment. Mark Hughes, an agronomist, criticizes the company as fundamentally flawed and suggests that AEFS officials were either knowingly deceptive or "stupendously stupid" in their claims about the Jerusalem artichoke. Pat Durner, tasked with market development, is revealed to lack the necessary expertise in chemical engineering and processing. The episode ends by highlighting the lack of foresight and expertise within AEFS. Hughes points out that no one questioned the viability of the project and that the company's practices even had negative ecological impacts, spreading plant diseases like sclerantina. The Anatomy of a Fiasco: Key Takeaways The episode paints a picture of a company built on a foundation of deception, fueled by religious fervor and the allure of quick riches. AEFS's failure highlights the dangers of: Blind faith and charismatic leadership: Hendrickson's charisma and his followers' unwavering belief in the Jerusalem artichoke allowed AEFS to thrive despite clear warning signs. Lack of due diligence and expertise: The company's lack of understanding of agricultural practices, market dynamics, and even basic business principles led to a series of disastrous decisions. Exploiting religious beliefs for financial gain: AEFS's reliance on religious messaging to attract investors raises ethical concerns about the manipulation of faith for profit. The allure of get-rich-quick schemes: The promise of outsized returns blinded investors to the inherent risks and unsustainable nature of AEFS's business model. The story of AEFS serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition, the importance of critical thinking, and the devastating consequences of prioritizing profit over ethical business practices. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" continues the exploration of American Energy Farming Systems (AEFS) and its attempt to turn the Jerusalem artichoke into a miracle crop and fuel source in the 1980s. Hosts Andy and Elliot examine the flawed business model and questionable leadership that drove AEFS's meteoric rise. From Alleyways to Empires: Fred Hendrickson’s Grand Vision The episode picks up with Fred Hendrickson, the self-proclaimed "agribusiness concept developer" introduced in the previous episode, and his growing obsession with the Jerusalem artichoke. After seeing six artichoke plants thriving in an alley behind his home in Rapid City, South Dakota, Hendrickson becomes convinced of the plant’s potential. He devours articles on the subject and even cold-calls experts mentioned in the articles, solidifying his belief that the Jerusalem artichoke is "energy farming's answer to OPEC". Hendrickson's enthusiasm for the Jerusalem artichoke knows no bounds. He declares its superiority to corn as a source of alcohol fuel, despite having no experience growing the plant himself. This lack of practical experience, coupled with his previous failed ventures like the "Igloo project," a self-sustaining farming community that never got off the ground, raises red flags about Hendrickson's judgment and ability to deliver on his grandiose promises. A Partnership Forged in Hubris: Enter James Dwyer The episode introduces James Dwyer, a businessman who becomes Hendrickson's partner in AEFS. Dwyer, drawn to the promise of cheaper fuel for his energy-intensive construction business, is eager to invest in the Jerusalem artichoke venture. However, Dwyer’s own business acumen is questionable. He is already struggling to pay his contractors and has made risky bets on farmland appreciating in value, despite a nationwide farm crisis that is driving many farmers into bankruptcy. Despite these warning signs, Dwyer is immediately captivated by Hendrickson's vision. He decides to buy enough Jerusalem artichoke seed for 20 acres, a significant investment at $1,000 per acre in 1980. This impulsive decision, based more on faith in Hendrickson's prophetic pronouncements than on sound business logic, further underscores the shaky foundation upon which AEFS is built. The episode notes that both men seem to feed off each other's enthusiasm, validating their shared delusion that they have stumbled upon a revolutionary agricultural solution. Dwyer, like Hendrickson, frames their partnership in religious terms. He sees Hendrickson as a prophet sent by God to save the "Christian farm" and the nation from the clutches of "Big Oil" and the "Trilateral Commission", a group of international business leaders often cited by conspiracy theorists as a source of global economic manipulation. This intertwining of religious conviction and economic opportunism becomes a hallmark of AEFS, attracting investors who share their belief in the divine providence of the Jerusalem artichoke. The Ragtag Research Team and the Illusion of Legitimacy AEFS's claims of scientific backing are quickly exposed as hollow. The company’s "research" is led by Wayne Dorband, an assistant professor with a PhD in Fisheries Resources, who has no prior knowledge of the Jerusalem artichoke or experience in crop development. Dorband's role seems to be more about providing a veneer of scientific legitimacy than conducting rigorous research. He compiles articles on the Jerusalem artichoke, conducts rudimentary field surveys, and writes much of the company's sales literature, which later becomes the subject of a legal investigation by the Minnesota attorney general. The episode highlights the irony of Dorband, a scientist with limited expertise in the field, being responsible for AEFS's scientific claims, while Hendrickson, an attorney by trade, oversees the company's research. This mismatch of skills and experience further underscores the haphazard and ultimately deceptive nature of AEFS's operations. Riding the Wave of Delusion: AEFS's Unsustainable Business Model AEFS's initial success is fueled by its pyramid scheme-like structure. The company guarantees to buy back a portion of the Jerusalem artichoke seed produced by its first-year growers, creating a false sense of security and incentivizing farmers to invest heavily in the venture. This model allows AEFS to boast of impressive cash flow, even though much of that money is simply circulating within the system, ultimately promised back to the growers who initially invested in the seed. The episode breaks down the economics of AEFS's model, revealing how the company inflates the perceived value of the Jerusalem artichoke. Seed costs are set at 100 times higher than corn, with the promise that growers can sell their harvest back to AEFS at 1,000 times higher premiums than corn on the commodity market. This artificial inflation, coupled with the guaranteed buyback scheme, creates a bubble that is destined to burst as soon as the market for Jerusalem artichokes inevitably saturates. The Power of Belief: Evangelicalism, Charismatic Capitalism, and the Allure of Quick Riches The episode explores the role of evangelical Christianity in AEFS's success. The company taps into the religious fervor of the 1980s, framing the Jerusalem artichoke as a divine gift and AEFS as a vehicle for both spiritual and material salvation. This messaging resonates with farmers struggling during the farm crisis, who are drawn to the promise of a solution that aligns with their faith and offers a way out of their economic hardship. This intertwining of religion and commerce is further amplified by the emergence of Reverend L.O.L Kramer, a charismatic televangelist who joins AEFS as a motivational speaker. Kramer, with his flamboyant personality and penchant for wordplay, embodies the excesses of what the hosts call "charismatic capitalism". His speeches, filled with religious pronouncements and promises of financial abundance through the Jerusalem artichoke, further solidify AEFS's image as a movement driven by both divine purpose and the pursuit of wealth. The episode ends on a cliffhanger, with AEFS riding high on a wave of investor enthusiasm and religious fervor, seemingly oblivious to the inherent flaws in its business model and the looming collapse of the Jerusalem artichoke bubble. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac," titled "Episode 151 #2: The Great Jerusalem Artichoke Scandal part 1," begins a four-part series exploring the bizarre story of American Energy Farming Systems (AEFS), a company that attempted to capitalize on the Jerusalem artichoke (also known as the sunchoke) as a source of renewable energy and agricultural salvation during the energy crisis of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Hosts Andy and Elliot trace the origins of this ambitious venture, highlighting the eccentric personalities and dubious claims that fueled its rise. The First Messiah of the Jerusalem Artichoke Before introducing AEFS, the hosts recount the story of Fred Johnson, a Nebraska man who became obsessed with the Jerusalem artichoke during the Great Depression. Johnson, who the episode dubs "Fred the First," believed the plant was a panacea, a "weed worth a million dollars" capable of solving the nation's economic and agricultural woes. He touted its potential as a source of alcohol fuel and a superior sweetener derived from a sugar called levulos. Johnson even went so far as to carry Jerusalem artichoke tubers in his pockets, stopping strangers on the street to extol their virtues. Johnson's advocacy for the Jerusalem artichoke reached its peak when he became a congressman in the 1940s, using his political platform to push for its widespread adoption. While his efforts ultimately failed to ignite a nationwide Jerusalem artichoke revolution, his story foreshadows the themes of misguided enthusiasm and economic opportunism that would characterize AEFS a few decades later. A Nation on Edge: The Energy Crisis and the Rise of Fred the Second The episode then shifts to the late 1970s, a period marked by economic instability and the second energy crisis of the decade. Spiraling fuel prices, double-digit inflation, and the Three Mile Island nuclear accident created a climate of anxiety and a desperate search for alternative energy solutions. This context sets the stage for the emergence of Fred Hendrickson, a self-proclaimed "agribusiness concept developer" who believed he had found the answer to America's energy woes in the humble Jerusalem artichoke. Hendrickson, whom the episode calls "Fred the Second," shared an uncanny resemblance to his predecessor in both name and fervent belief in the Jerusalem artichoke's potential. Like Johnson, Hendrickson envisioned the plant as a source of alcohol fuel, promoting it as a path to energy independence and agricultural prosperity. However, Hendrickson's vision went beyond mere fuel production. He believed the Jerusalem artichoke could revolutionize agriculture, providing food for humans and livestock, and even serving as a substitute for sugar and starch, particularly for diabetics. More Than Just a Business: The Evangelical Zeal of AEFS What set Hendrickson and AEFS apart from previous proponents of the Jerusalem artichoke was the religious fervor with which they promoted their vision. Hendrickson, who underwent a dramatic religious conversion in the early 1970s, saw himself as a prophet chosen by God to lead America to salvation through the Jerusalem artichoke. He framed the plant as a "Biblical plant of promise", a divine gift meant to "feed and save his people". This evangelical framing resonated with farmers struggling during the farm crisis of the 1980s, who were desperate for a solution to their economic woes and receptive to the message of hope and renewal that AEFS offered. A Hemisphere Scheme: Selling Hope and Seeds While AEFS did sell actual Jerusalem artichoke seeds, its business model relied heavily on a pyramid-like structure. The company encouraged early adopters to sell seeds to subsequent generations of growers, promising them a share of the profits from this burgeoning new industry. This system, while technically not illegal, capitalized on the speculative frenzy surrounding the Jerusalem artichoke, with farmers and investors alike buying into the hype and driving up demand for seeds. From Boring to Bonkers: The Unraveling of Fred the Second The episode concludes by revealing a more personal side to Hendrickson, painting a portrait of a man driven by ambition, a messianic complex, and a seemingly inexhaustible capacity for self-delusion. Prior to his Jerusalem artichoke epiphany, Hendrickson had a history of jumping from job to job, always chasing the next big idea. He even attempted to secure a loan to purchase 27 counties in South Dakota for a self-sufficient farming system that included everything from cattle grazing to aquaculture. Hendrickson's grandiose visions, coupled with his fervent belief in his own divine mission, set the stage for a story that promises to be as entertaining as it is cautionary. The episode ends on a cliffhanger, hinting at further revelations about AEFS, its charismatic founder, and the inevitable crash of the Jerusalem artichoke bubble. This episode connects with our previous discussions on the Langstroth hive and the Merino sheep craze by illustrating how economic desperation, combined with a charismatic leader and a compelling narrative, can lead to irrational exuberance and the exploitation of both people and resources. Like the Merino sheep craze, AEFS capitalized on a moment of perceived opportunity, promising wealth and salvation through a seemingly miraculous agricultural product. However, the episode suggests that this "horticultural hysteria" would ultimately prove unsustainable, leaving behind a trail of financial ruin and ecological consequences. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" explores the historical economic bubble surrounding Merino sheep in New England between 1810 and 1845. Hosts Andy, Elliot, and Matt discuss how the opportunity to get rich quick, combined with favorable economic conditions, led to the rapid deforestation of New England for sheep pasture and ultimately ended in the financial ruin of many farmers. Setting the Stage: Pre-Merino New England Before discussing the Merino sheep craze, the hosts provide context on the ecological and economic situation in New England in the 17th and 18th centuries. They explain that colonists rapidly cleared forests for homesteads, farms, and timber for shipbuilding. Most of this timber was pine, which the hosts acknowledge is a fast-growing, strong, and lightweight wood suitable for construction. Much of this timber, especially large pines, was claimed by the British crown for use as ship masts, leading to conflicts with colonists who were clearing the land for their own use. As the country expanded westward, many farms followed, leaving behind a partially reforested landscape dotted with homesteads. The episode also introduces the Boston Brahmins, a wealthy and influential group descended from early colonists who wielded significant economic and political power in the newly formed United States. Enter the Merino: A Sheep of Exquisite Value The episode then shifts focus to William Jarvis, a member of the Boston Brahmins, and his role in introducing Merino sheep to New England. While working as a U.S. consul in Europe, Jarvis observed the high price commanded by Merino wool, which was significantly finer and softer than the wool produced by the English sheep common in the colonies. Merino sheep were originally bred in Spain, where their export was strictly controlled to protect the lucrative wool trade. The Perfect Storm: War, Embargoes, and Technological Innovation A confluence of events created ideal conditions for the Merino wool market to explode in New England. Escalating tensions between England and France, culminating in the War of 1812, disrupted the supply of wool to the United States. Embargoes on French and English goods further restricted the availability of wool, driving up demand. Simultaneously, the invention of the power loom in 1814 allowed for rapid and efficient textile production, particularly in New England, which was rich in rivers suitable for powering mills. Jarvis capitalized on this opportunity, importing thousands of Merino sheep from Spain and establishing himself as a prominent figure in the burgeoning wool industry. He not only raised sheep himself but also invested heavily in textile mills, effectively creating a vertically integrated business model. Sheep Fever: Uncontrolled Growth and Ecological Consequences The combination of high demand and the potential for immense profits led to what the hosts call “Sheep Fever” in New England. Farmers were eager to acquire Merino sheep, driving up prices and fueling speculative investment. The demand for sheep pasture led to rapid deforestation, with agricultural land below 2,000 feet increasing from 20% to 80% within 35 years. This deforestation had lasting ecological consequences, as evidenced by the prevalence of white pine, a fast-growing but less ecologically valuable species, in New England forests today. The episode emphasizes the scale of deforestation by citing Tom Russell, who describes the extensive network of stone walls built across New England as a direct result of the timber shortage caused by sheep farming. These walls, totaling over 125,000 miles, represent a massive human-made alteration of the landscape. The Bubble Bursts: Market Saturation and Financial Ruin The Merino wool craze proved unsustainable. As Spain sold off more of its Merino flocks and the Napoleonic Wars ended, the price of wool plummeted from $2 per pound to 27 cents per pound between 1809 and 1840. This price collapse led to the financial ruin of many farmers who had invested heavily in Merino sheep, leaving behind a deforested landscape struggling to recover. Lessons Learned: The Echoes of Short-sighted Exploitation The episode concludes by reflecting on the long-term consequences of the Merino sheep craze. While the economic bubble ultimately burst, the ecological damage to New England forests persists to this day. The dominance of white pine and the lack of old-growth forests demonstrate the lasting impact of short-sighted exploitation driven by the pursuit of quick profits. The hosts connect this historical episode to contemporary issues, suggesting that the pursuit of wealth often comes at the expense of environmental health and long-term sustainability. This episode connects with our previous conversation about treatment-free beekeeping by highlighting the dangers of prioritizing short-term gains over long-term sustainability. The Merino sheep craze demonstrates how market forces, combined with a lack of foresight and ecological awareness, can lead to devastating consequences for both human communities and the natural environment. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" focuses on the controversial concept of treatment-free beekeeping. Hosts Andy and Elliot argue that while modern beekeeping practices prioritize honey production through chemical treatments and artificial feeding, these methods ultimately harm bees in the long run. Instead, they advocate for a more natural approach that emphasizes observation, minimal intervention, and allowing bees to adapt to their local environments. Reframing Beekeeping: From Short-Term Gain to Long-Term Viability The hosts challenge the conventional beekeeping wisdom that emphasizes keeping colonies alive as long as possible, arguing that true beekeeping success lies in supporting the long-term health of the species. They point out that modern beekeeping practices, focused on maximizing honey production through chemical treatments and artificial feeding, have actually weakened bee populations and increased their susceptibility to diseases and pests. The hosts advocate for a shift in perspective from individual hive survival to the overall well-being of bees as a species. They emphasize that treatment-free beekeeping is not about neglecting bees but rather about fostering resilience and adaptability by minimizing interventions and allowing natural selection to strengthen bee populations. The Two Pillars of Treatment-Free Beekeeping The hosts outline two key areas that distinguish treatment-free beekeeping from conventional methods: No Disease Treatments: This involves refraining from using chemical treatments to control pests and diseases. Instead, treatment-free beekeepers focus on using hive designs that reduce the risk of infestation and allowing bees to develop natural resistance. Limited or No Supplemental Feeding: Modern beekeeping often relies on feeding bees sugar water, especially during spring and winter. This practice, while providing calories, lacks the nutritional complexity of natural honey and can weaken bees' immune systems. Treatment-free beekeepers aim to minimize or eliminate supplemental feeding, encouraging bees to rely on their own honey stores and forage for diverse, natural food sources. The Problem with Honeydew Honey The episode explores the challenges of honeydew honey, a type of honey produced by bees from the sugary excretions of sap-feeding insects. While bees may collect honeydew honey during periods of pollen scarcity, the hosts explain that honeydew honey can crystallize in the hive and become poisonous to bees, particularly during winter. The hosts caution beekeepers against harvesting honey too late in the season, as this may leave bees with primarily honeydew honey for winter stores. They emphasize the importance of allowing bees to build sufficient reserves of high-quality honey during the main honey flow. Rethinking Hive Management: Minimal Intervention for Maximum Resilience The hosts advocate for a minimalist approach to hive management, arguing that frequent inspections and manipulations can stress bees and disrupt their natural behaviors. They recommend limiting hive inspections to twice a year, in spring and fall, focusing on observing colony health, adding frames as needed, and ensuring adequate honey stores for winter. The hosts also emphasize the importance of allowing bees to swarm naturally, as this promotes genetic diversity and strengthens local bee populations. They suggest that beekeepers can encourage swarming by providing ample space in the hive and avoiding practices that suppress natural reproduction. The Role of Insulation in Bee Survival The episode discusses the importance of hive insulation in helping bees conserve energy and survive cold winters. The hosts point out that modern Langstroth hives, often constructed with thin wood, may lack adequate insulation, forcing bees to work harder to maintain hive temperature. They recommend using thicker hive walls, incorporating insulation materials, and considering hive designs that naturally retain heat, such as top bar hives. They highlight the importance of reducing moisture buildup within the hive, which can contribute to cold stress and bee mortality. Reframing Our Relationship with Bees: From Exploitation to Collaboration The episode concludes with a call for a more respectful and collaborative relationship between humans and bees. The hosts emphasize that beekeeping should prioritize bee health and well-being rather than solely focusing on honey production. They encourage beekeepers to learn from the behaviors of wild bees, observe their adaptations to local environments, and embrace practices that support natural resilience and genetic diversity. The hosts believe that by shifting our focus from exploitation to collaboration, we can create a more sustainable future for bees and ensure their vital role in our ecosystems. This episode connects to our previous conversation about Langstroth hives by highlighting alternative approaches to beekeeping that prioritize bee health and natural behaviors. While Langstroth hives are efficient for industrial honey production, the episode argues that their design and the management practices often associated with them can negatively impact bee health. Treatment-free beekeeping, with its focus on minimal intervention, natural comb building, and supporting local adaptations, offers a different model for beekeeping that prioritizes long-term sustainability over short-term gains. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

In this episode, we're joined by Michiel Verspuij from Boomtree Bees in Donegal, Ireland, to discuss log hives and restoring native honeybees in Ireland. How much of a difference does raising honeybees in log hives make, and how does it upend our understanding of healthy hives and what their natural cycles look like? Michiel's mission is to help with the conservation and rewilding of the native honeybee through habitat creation and development. They make log hives that mimic the natural habitat for honeybees in the Irish countryside. Check out their work at www.boomtreebees.com & on instagram @Boomtreebees   To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For more information and updates, visit www.poorproles.com and subscribe to our e-mail list. For the supplemental reader that goes along with the podcast, visit poorprolesalmanac.substack.com

In this episode, we're joined by Susan Chernak McElroy, a prolific naturalist author with a number of New York Times best sellers, to discuss her experiences with building and maintaining skeps, log hives, and the future of beekeeping. How is the science around beekeeping changing how we understand bee habits and what they need to thrive?   Get her most recent book, "What Bees Want", on Amazon or wherever you buy books. To learn more about Susan's research and work, check out her website: https://susanchernakknilans.com/   To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For more information and updates, visit www.poorproles.com and subscribe to our e-mail list. For the supplemental reader that goes along with the podcast, visit poorprolesalmanac.substack.com   

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" explores the advantages of top bar hives as a more natural and bee-friendly alternative to the widely used Langstroth hives. Through their signature blend of humor and insightful commentary, hosts Andy and Elliot unpack the unique features of top bar hives, highlighting their benefits for both bees and beekeepers. Challenging the Langstroth Hegemony: Embracing Top Bar Hives The episode begins by acknowledging the dominance of Langstroth hives in modern beekeeping, attributing their popularity to their efficiency for industrial honey production. However, the hosts emphasize that top bar hives, while less common, offer several advantages that make them a compelling option for beekeepers seeking a more natural and sustainable approach. Top Bar Advantages: Heat Retention, Deep Frames, and DIY Flexibility The hosts highlight several key benefits of top bar hives: Enhanced Heat Retention: Top bar hives, with their lower ceilings, retain heat more effectively than taller, narrower Langstroth hives. This feature is particularly beneficial in colder climates, as it helps bees conserve energy and maintain a stable hive temperature during winter. Deep Frames for Natural Comb Building: Top bar hives accommodate deep frames, typically 12 inches or more, allowing bees to build their comb naturally downward from the top bar. This design contrasts with Langstroth hives, which often utilize shallower frames, potentially disrupting the bees' natural comb-building instincts. The hosts emphasize the importance of deep frames for successful beekeeping, allowing bees to store ample honey reserves above the brood nest for winter sustenance. DIY Construction and Customization: Top bar hives are relatively easy to build, offering beekeepers the flexibility to customize designs and incorporate features like improved insulation. The hosts contrast this with the more standardized and potentially intimidating construction of Langstroth hives. Navigating the Nuances: Addressing Moisture and Standardization Challenges While extolling the virtues of top bar hives, the hosts also address some of the challenges associated with this hive design: Moisture Management: The hosts emphasize the importance of addressing moisture buildup in top bar hives, particularly during winter. They recommend incorporating a space beneath the hive entrance to allow for water drainage and moisture absorption, preventing condensation and potential harm to the colony. Lack of Standardization: The hosts acknowledge that top bar hives lack the standardized dimensions and readily available components of Langstroth hives. This can make it more challenging for novice beekeepers to find information and resources for top bar hive management. They suggest that beekeepers carefully consider their specific needs and preferences when choosing a top bar hive design, ensuring it accommodates deep frames and appropriate moisture control features. Reconnecting with Bee Biology: A Call for Observation and Understanding The episode concludes with a call for beekeepers to observe and learn from the natural behaviors of bees, both managed and wild. The hosts highlight the importance of understanding bee biology and adapting beekeeping practices to support colony health and resilience. Key Takeaways and Insights: Top bar hives offer a more natural and bee-centric approach to beekeeping, prioritizing bee health and natural comb-building behavior. The deep frames in top bar hives allow bees to store ample honey reserves, reducing the need for supplemental feeding and promoting colony self-sufficiency. Moisture management is crucial in top bar hives, particularly in colder climates, to prevent condensation and protect the colony from dampness. The DIY nature of top bar hives offers customization options but requires careful consideration of design and construction to ensure bee health and successful hive management. Observing and understanding bee biology is essential for adapting beekeeping practices to support colony health and resilience. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac," titled "Episode 145 #10: Sending Bees to the Cube Farm; the Reverand's Langstroth Hive," explores the history, design, and limitations of the Langstroth hive, the most common type of beehive used in modern beekeeping. The hosts, Andy and Elliot, use their characteristic humor to unpack the complexities of this widely adopted hive model, highlighting its advantages, shortcomings, and potential alternatives. The Langstroth Hive: A Revolutionary Design with Enduring Legacy The episode introduces Reverend Lorenzo Langstroth, an American clergyman and beekeeper often hailed as the "father of American beekeeping." While acknowledging that Langstroth didn't invent the concept of removable frames, the hosts credit him with discovering the "bee space," a crucial gap of approximately one centimeter that prevents bees from gluing frames together with propolis, a resinous substance bees use for hive construction and maintenance. This innovation allowed for easy inspection and manipulation of hive components without damaging the comb or disrupting the colony. The hosts emphasize that Langstroth's discovery, although significant, wasn't entirely unique. A Polish apiarist, Dr. Jan Dzierzon, had actually identified the same bee space 20 years prior and applied it to top-bar hives. However, Langstroth's design gained widespread recognition and adoption, largely due to its simplicity, affordability, and ease of use. Anatomy of a Langstroth Hive: From Roof to Bottom Board The hosts provide a detailed breakdown of the basic components of a Langstroth hive: Outer Cover: The roof of the hive, providing protection from the elements. Inner Cover: A barrier between the outer cover and the hive body, preventing bees from gluing the roof down and aiding in ventilation. Supers: Boxes placed above the hive body for honey storage. Queen Excluder: A mesh screen that prevents the queen from laying eggs in the supers, ensuring honey purity. Hive Body (Mediums or Deeps): Boxes where the bees live and raise brood. Mediums are shorter and lighter than deeps, making them easier to handle. Frames: Wooden structures within the hive body and supers that hold the honeycomb. Foundation: Sheets of beeswax imprinted with a hexagonal pattern, providing a guide for bees to build their comb uniformly. Bottom Board: The floor of the hive, providing an entrance for the bees. The "Hot Potato" Problem: Disrupting Natural Bee Behavior While acknowledging the advantages of the Langstroth hive, the hosts criticize the conventional practice of rotating hive boxes, which they humorously refer to as the "hot potato" method. This technique involves regularly shuffling the position of hive bodies and supers to encourage bees to build comb and store honey in desired locations. The hosts argue that this constant manipulation disrupts the natural bee behavior of building downward from the top of a cavity, potentially stressing the colony and hindering their ability to prepare adequately for winter. They point out that conventional beekeeping often involves harvesting honey from the supers during the summer, leaving the bees with insufficient stores for the colder months. To compensate, beekeepers typically feed bees sugar water, which, while providing calories, lacks the nutritional complexity of natural honey. Insulation: A Forgotten Factor in Modern Beekeeping The hosts express concern that modern Langstroth hives are often constructed with thinner wood than those used in Langstroth's time, compromising insulation and forcing bees to expend more energy to maintain hive temperature. They advocate for a return to thicker hive walls and the incorporation of insulation materials to reduce stress on the colony and enhance their ability to thrive. They cite research indicating that insulated hives may not produce more honey but contribute to higher bee survival rates due to reduced mortality from cold stress. This suggests that insulation plays a crucial role in maintaining colony strength and resilience. Rethinking Hive Design: Exploring Alternatives to the Langstroth The hosts explore alternative hive designs that address some of the limitations of the traditional Langstroth model: Long Langstroth Hives: These hives, resembling top-bar hives in their horizontal layout, provide bees with a larger, continuous space to build their comb and store honey, mimicking their natural nesting behavior. This design eliminates the need for box rotation and reduces disturbance to the colony. Extra Deep Frames: Using deeper frames within a Langstroth hive can provide bees with more space to store honey above the brood nest, allowing them to prepare more effectively for winter. While acknowledging the benefits of these alternatives, the hosts recognize that the Langstroth hive remains the dominant model in conventional beekeeping due to its portability and ease of management in large-scale operations. They suggest that the choice of hive design depends on the individual beekeeper's goals, resources, and commitment to promoting bee health and natural behavior. Moving Beyond the "Honeymaking Machine": A Holistic Approach to Beekeeping The episode concludes with a call for a more holistic approach to beekeeping that recognizes bees as "living intelligent creatures" rather than simply honey production units. The hosts advocate for a shift in beekeeping practices that prioritize: Reducing Stress: Minimizing hive manipulation and transportation to allow bees to build and manage their homes naturally. Improving Nutrition: Providing bees with access to diverse and nutritious forage, reducing reliance on sugar water supplements. Learning from Wild Bees: Observing the behavior and adaptations of wild bee populations to gain insights into sustainable beekeeping practices. The hosts emphasize that a balanced co-existence between bees and humans is possible through a deeper understanding of bee biology, a respect for their natural behaviors, and a commitment to promoting hive health and resilience. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

Dr. John Kiefus, a beekeeping virtuoso with his hands in hives across continents, joins us to unravel his journey from the fields of Michigan to the picturesque landscapes of France. We dive into his world of treatment-free beekeeping and the crucial pivot away from chemical treatments for varroa mites, a change driven by health and sustainability. Alongside tales of his ventures in South America and the innovative use of bumblebees for greenhouse pollination, Dr. Kiefus offers invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of beekeeping, highlighting his dedication to bee stewardship and sustainable practices. Venture further into the complexities of managing Varroa mite infestations with unconventional techniques and genetic resistance, as recounted by fellow beekeeper Mr. Osi and his collaboration with Wolfgang Witter. We scrutinize the intricate balance between high honey production and low mite presence, emphasizing the strategic importance of bond testing. The discussion extends to the economic implications and the challenges of breeding mite-resistant bees, underlining the pressing need for a paradigm shift towards sustainable beekeeping that values adaptability and resilience. Our journey doesn't stop there. We spotlight the economic and ecological benefits of supporting native bee diversity and the looming threat of invasive hornets in France. Randy Oliver's evolving insights on mite resistance enrich our conversation, urging a broader perspective in research and practice. Through diverse planting strategies and disease-resistant bee selection, we explore the potential for coexistence between honeybees and wild bees, reinforcing the importance of open-mindedness and innovation in beekeeping for a thriving ecosystem. Dr. John Kefuss began experimenting with the possibility of breeding resistant bees before it was known it could be done. He promotes his "Bond Method" of selection as both more healthy and economical than chemical treatment for both bees and their keepers. We discuss his evolution on beekeeping after practicing beekeeping across the world, from both Americas & Europe, and what 50 years of beekeeping, 25 of which treatment free, has taught him about this timeless practice. Check out his recent study from 2015 on treatment-free beekeeping: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/00218839.2016.1160709 For sources and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/   Key words: Key Words: Beekeeping, Varroa Mites, Sustainable Practices, Treatment-Free, Genetic Resistance, Pollination, Bumblebees, Honey Production, Native Bee Diversity, Invasive Species, Randy Oliver, Disease Resistance, Flexible Learning, Discounts, Capella University, Whole Foods Market, Nordstrom Rack, Amica Auto Insurance, Winter Essentials