Thank you for the information, Lloyd.  I see how snow would insulate the hives all around the bottom.  On the other hand, do you think completely snowless conditions, combined with very low temperatures, could have a detrimental effect?  I suppose borderline-sized clusters could be killed by cold blasts of air. (Not questioning the approach, just seeking input from experienced beekepers.)

Thank you.

Waldemar
Long Island, NY

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