Family-Owned Company Revives Historic Publication

A family-owned winter sports company is stepping in to preserve an essential element of American culture.

The Maine-based publication, which has been offering weather forecasts and gardening tips for nearly 210 years, seemingly published its final edition in November.

In a heartfelt farewell on its website, the company announced that the 2026 Farmer’s Yearbook would be its last. “It felt wrong to stand by and watch an irreplaceable part of our national heritage disappear,” they noted.

The editors, Sandy Duncan and Peter Geiger, mentioned, “While the yearbook is no longer available in print or online, it lives on in you.”

Financial Struggles

Although the closure’s reason was not clearly stated, CBS News reported that publishers cited increasing financial pressures stemming from today’s chaotic media landscape.

As the yearbook began to slip from public memory, Tim Conrad from a family media company stepped in. His network focuses on skiing, snowboarding, and outdoor adventures.

Conrad expressed that seeing one of America’s oldest publications close felt deeply wrong. “It’s an irreplaceable part of our national heritage,” he said in a statement about the decision to revive it.

Preserving History

Conrad views the publication as a vital piece of American history, stating it’s more than just a book—it’s a living link to generations of knowledge about the natural world.

Working closely with his team and Mr. Geiger, he aims to preserve beloved content like long-range forecasts and the publication’s unique voice. Geiger himself expressed excitement about the transition, declaring, “The American tradition continues!”

The yearbook’s value has been nurtured over two centuries, and the editors are grateful to have found the “right next custodian in Tim Conrad.” Geiger remains confident that Conrad will uphold this legacy for future generations.

Future Plans

The Farmers’ Almanac, distinct from its counterpart, was founded in 1818 by poet and astronomer David Young along with publisher Jacob Mann. It will remain available online, and a new print edition is expected to return.

Unofficial Networks has developed a strong brand with a dedicated following and over 250,000 subscribers, along with a popular YouTube channel showcasing skiing and avalanche footage.