>
> >On the topic of OA, what is the status of some sort of slow release
> Oxalic pads or strips?


I collected good data on efficacy in a low-humidity climate last season.
Also data indicating no observable adverse effects and no honey
contamination.  Unfortunately, there were issues in the Georgia trial, and
they are setting up to run again for a test in a high-humidity situation.
EPA wants that data.

I'm in the middle of conversation with ARS and EPA re our progress towards
registration.

In Calif, I just finished a test of 8 different formulations, and have
hundreds of frozen bee samples to analyze for acid residues on their bodies.

We recently started a field trial of 9 different formulations, with over
200 hives in the trial.  This will allow me to confirm the results of the
initial trial, as well as test for the most efficient delivery method, and
the handling characteristics of the various formulations.

My feeling is that extended-release OA is going to be a game changer.  Not
a panacea, but a valuable tool for *proactively* reducing varroa mid- to
late-season while honey supers are on.  It is not an effective knock-down
treatment, since it takes at least 6 weeks for full effect.


-- 
Randy Oliver
Grass Valley, CA
www.ScientificBeekeeping.com

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