In late December, an egg shortage became apparent in the Roaring Fork Valley with grocery stores first limiting the number of cartons per customer, and later posting signs to announce they’re “completely out.” The shortage is attributed to recent outbreaks of avian influenza, though House Bill 1343 coming into effect could contribute to higher costs amid ongoing shortages. The new Colorado law requires that egg producers provide at least one square foot of space per laying hen with a commitment to be completely cage-free by 2025. Comic by Larry Day