American Foul Brood spores are reported to remain viable for
over thirty years.  In New York state, the only approved treatment
of infected hives is the burning of the bees, wax, honey, and
frames.  Outer woodenware may be salvaged by scorching.  Scorching
is tricky. Boxes are to be scraped to remove propolis and wax
before scorching.  NYS recommends stacking up to eight boxes high,
using some kerosene, and creating a hot fire up through the stack.
I am not satisfied with the uniformity of scorching using this
method.  I'm sure corners do not have exposure to temperatures as
high as centers of walls just from scorch evidence.  I've had burn-
through at the handholds with no scorching in the corners.  I
really question whether attempts to salvage using this method are
effective, or worth the effort.
     I have also read that some wax melters/ honey liquefiers can
be used to treat AFB.
     My questions:
          1) Does anyone know the temperature/time profile
necessary to destroy the AFB spores?
          2) I've read of using paraffin to treat hives for
preservation.  Does the temperature of the paraffin dip destroy the
AFB spores or suitably seal them away from bees?
          3) Does anyone have a different way of treating for AFB
spores in a small way?
 
We have sections of the Island with high incidence of AFB year
after year.  Timing of treatment and supering can get tedious.
 
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+    Raymond J. Lackey                                     +
+    Beekeeper 10 years with 25 colonies on Long Island, NY+
+    INTERNET: [log in to unmask]                       +
+    Mail: 1260 Walnut Avenue, Bohemia NY 11617            +
+    Home Phone: 516-567-1936  FAX: 516-262-8053           +
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