Hi Randy You wrote: I spent time last week with a Calif sideline beekeeper (Serge Labesque) who keeps about 50 colonies. He's used absolutely no treatments for quite a few years. He keeps detailed records. His overwinter losses have been from 0-5% over the last several years. I am wondering if there are particular factors that set him apart from other beekeepers, such as relative isolation, management approach, climate, ??? Pete *********************************************** The BEE-L mailing list is powered by L-Soft's renowned LISTSERV(R) list management software. For more information, go to: http://www.lsoft.com/LISTSERV-powered.html Access BEE-L directly at: http://community.lsoft.com/scripts/wa-LSOFTDONATIONS.exe?A0=BEE-L