WASHINGTON — First Lady Melania Trump revealed Friday her plans to enhance the presidential residence’s beekeeping initiative by introducing a uniquely designed hive shaped like the White House itself.
This distinctive addition will join the pair of beehives that have operated on the south lawn since 2009, officials announced. During the busiest summer period, the current hives house approximately 70,000 bees and generate between 200 and 225 pounds of honey annually, according to White House officials. The newly installed hive is expected to boost yearly honey output by roughly 30 pounds.
The clover honey produced serves multiple purposes throughout the administration, including meal preparation, ceremonial gifts presented by the president and first lady, and charitable contributions to local food assistance programs.
These industrious bees play a crucial role in pollinating the nearby vegetable garden established by former First Lady Michelle Obama in 2009, as well as a flower cutting garden and various plants throughout the National Mall area.
The beekeeping initiative originated in 2009 when a White House carpenter began pursuing apiculture as a personal interest on the grounds.
Funding for the distinctive new hive came through the Trust for the National Mall, White House representatives confirmed.
The specialized hive and its foundation were conceived by White House residence staff members and crafted by hand by a skilled Virginia artisan.
