Hi Guys,

>I remember Allen Dick asked a question similar to the one you did about 
colony numbers and productivity....

Ah, the old commercial versus little guy debate:>) I've been both, so have
some experience in these areas. As a commercial beekeeper, I saw alot of
hives in a variety of locations and circumstances. But there just wasn't
much time to really observe a single hive in detail or through time. The
experience was mostly extensive.

As a hobbiest, I've had lots of time to watch a few hives. This experience
is mostly intensive.

Each system has it's place in beekeeping. But assuming colony count and
making money somehow negates the value of others observations/experience is
short sighted. It's a kind of commercial bigotry which is common in the US.

And it's somewhat ironic for I know of many commercial beekeepers that would
go to any end, including sacrificing colony health and/or product quality,
to make a dime. And quite a few hobbiest follow their example, not knowing
any better.

So, the challenge is out. Just what are you 'big' guys producing? What were
your colony counts/production before the mites. And what are they now? I've
provided some numbers. Let's see who is willing to go there! Who wants to
splatter these details over the internet where everyone, including your
economic competitors can see them. Not many I'll bet;>)

I too, had signed off Bee-L. And just signed back on again for my bees are
looking good and are set for winter. And I have the time to do a little
ebeekeeping. 

I appreciate a variety of views and experience. These provide me with the
opportunity to evaluate new observations and ideas that I would never
encounter in my isolated part of the world. Or that I would never think of
myself. 

Regards
Dennis



 

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