First Lady Melania Trump has announced an expansion of the White House’s long-running honey program, introducing a new beehive shaped like the iconic executive mansion itself. The distinctive addition joins two existing hives that have been a fixture on the south grounds since 2009.
Existing Hives and Production
The established hives are home to approximately 70,000 bees during peak summer months and collectively yield between 200 and 225 pounds of honey annually. The new, architecturally inspired hive is expected to boost production by an additional 30 pounds, according to the White House.
Uses of the Honey
The clover honey harvested from the grounds serves multiple purposes, including being incorporated into White House meals, presented as official gifts from the president and first lady, and donated to local food kitchens.
Ecological Role
Beyond its sweet yield, the bee population plays a crucial ecological role, pollinating a nearby produce garden initiated by then-first lady Michelle Obama in 2009, a flower cutting garden, and various vegetation across the National Mall.
Origins and Funding
The beekeeping initiative originally began in 2009, stemming from a White House carpenter's personal hobby. The funding for the new, White House-shaped hive was provided through the Trust for the National Mall, with its design and base crafted by White House residence staff and hand-made by an artisan based in Virginia.
