Barry Birkey wrote:
> So now instead of just paying
> for chemicals to treat the bees, we add to that the cost of special queens
> and labor. I fail to understand this idea.
While I agree with your point that combining the two practices proves
nothing, I have no trouble understanding why people might do it. Perhaps
they are simply doing all they can to remain viable during a time of
increasing colony losses. I am a recent comer to beekeeping and have never
seen 30% or more of my colonies wiped out over winter. I can barely imagine
how discouraging that must be.
I also think Allen made a good point when he said:
> The success of a technique does not have to be absolute to be
> considered worthwhile. If SMR only reduces the need for
> treatment by half, it will still be a success.
If SMR bees enable people to treat once a year instead of twice (for
example) that sounds like significant success to me.
Frank.
-----
The very act of seeking sets something in motion to meet us;
something in the universe, or in the unconscious responds as if
to an invitation. - Jean Shinoda Bolen