>research suggests that the one leading cause of loss in the US is the ectoparasite mite Varroa and the viruses it vectors.

>colony mortality increased significantly with initial V. destructor infestation at the beginning of the time period

When a problem is mind numbingly difficult and persistent we tend to loose focus and look elsewhere for blame or solution. The discussion of hive configuration revels that many methods work so no one can be considered universally superior. Nosema can be a problem but seldom on its own causes large loses. The fact is that we really can't do much about it other then keep healthy robust colonys. I personally have never seen obvious positive effect from feeding Fumagillin. The quest for varroa resistant queens, while worthy, has after 35 years not reached its goal. Starvation is the easiest of our problems to deal with and all it takes is sufficient stores at all times. Many ways to achieve that.   

Our problem is and remains varroa and associated viruses. Many successful beekeepers, including me, have found that if a colony has low (<1%) infestation for the ENTIRE year all other miladies become very much more manageable. Spring counts are as important as fall, maybe more-so. We have made great strides in our ability to control varroa without the use of hard chemicals and short duration treatments. Wearisome as it is that is where we should keep our attention. 

Paul

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