Bob said:

> On a final note if we move to controls like formic acid gel (or even liquid
> formic acid) the fumes will sink from the hive (heavier than air) through
> the screened bottom board without controlling varroa (reported at the 2003
> ABF convention by the makers of "mitegone" formic acid pads).

and

> In some tests the hives with screened bottom boards and controls were
> the same.  10% is the highest figure I have ever seen given.

1)  Given that the direct advantages in terms of "natural mite fall" are
    too limited to provide effective control of varroa alone, of what
    possible value is a screened bottom if there is nothing under it, and
    nowhere to put a "sticky board"?  As a metaphor, of what value is a
    temperature gauge on my dashboard if it has no needle?

2)  I know that no one sells a screened bottom with a built-in solid bottom,
    but they seem to expect one to have a traditional solid bottom, turn it
    around so that the "entrance" faces backwards, and place (their version of)
    a screened bottom on top.

3)  It is not too much trouble to cut some 1/4-inch luan plywood and
    nail it to the base of the screen assembly, which creates a place
    for the sticky board, and increases the structural strength of the
    thing considerably.  A nailed or screwed-in solid "plug" for the
    front gap between plywood and screen, and a removable solid
    "plug" for the rear are also good ideas for those who don't like
    random beasties taking up residence under their hives.  Cheaper
    than a bottom board, for sure.

4)  Does the statement imply that one wants to reduce entrances when
    using this product to further reduce ventilation?  If not, why not?

5)  Did these folks mention any effort to gain EPA approval for their
    product, or are they only selling in Canada, and giving a wink, a
    nod and secret hand signals to US beekeepers?  Their website solicits
    "US Associates", http://www.mitegone.com/usassociates.html and quotes
    pricing in US dollars, so one is forced to wonder if they have heard
    of the US "EPA".  (Making pesticidal claims about an unregistered
    product of any sort is a great way to get the shirt fined off one's back.)

                jim

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