<Johann Popodi is a passionate beekeeper who recognized the VARROA problem
very early.  He was not happy with available means of treating the mites
(using strips), due to the toxic nature of the chemicals and the side
effects that it had on both the bees and the honey
simple and easy to use - safe - guaranteed to work - tested internationally
- non-toxic - no dangerous side effects - naturally derived material -
inexpensive.>
I am intrigued by the letter sent to Bee-list 28-3-96.  There was a thread
on the list some time ago which showed that formic acid could be very nasty
stuff, fumes causing damage to the sinuses and lung tissues and splashes
causing blindness.  It was necessary to wear protective clothing, goggles
and a respirator.  If this was so then no doubt Mr Popodi's system must have
overcome all these dangers.
I have no personal experience of it but would prefer it to Apistan.  I do
know that a local beekeeper used this treatment on his 200 stocks at the end
of last summer.  Every one of them perished during the winter.  I am
definitely not blaming formic acid for this failure as it is being used
successfully in many countries.  Clearly the beekeeper was at fault in some
way.  Some of my acquaintances who used chemical strips last autumn also
lost all their bees.  These treatments require care, knowledge and timing
and are not to be entered upon lightly.
Could Mr Propodi please tell us more as he has apparently achieved a much
needed breadthrough.
 
As an aside may I enter the high swarm contest.  I use a shrimp net tied
firmly to a drain rod.  I can get up to twenty feet of so after which it
becomes unwieldy.  I may have to "fish" three or four times but I get the
queen down in the end.
Sid P.
_________________________________________________________________
Sid Pullinger                    Email :  [log in to unmask]
36, Grange Rd                Compuserve:  [log in to unmask]
Alresford
Hants SO24 9HF
England