>
>
> >I've read that the use of OTC will damage the natural gut flora of the
> winter bees.
>
Several of the gut bacteria in commercial operations appear to have
developed some resistance to OTC.  Other research indicates harm from
treatment.  A study in Calif at UC Davis found no adverse effect from
antibiotic treatment upon colony growth.  Take your pick!

>
> >EFB only affects uncapped brood, so assuming the winter bees can be
> formed without EFB, the broodless period from mid October through January
> should render the fall EFB treatment unnecessary.


EFB is normally a springtime disease.  So your statement above is certainly
biologically plausible.  I myself wouldn't be tempted to do a fall
treatment.
-- 
Randy Oliver
Grass Valley, CA
www.ScientificBeekeeping.com

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