<<...a simple, inexpensive solution to the SHB and is knowledgeable in the
SHB arena please look into the use of the material that is put across
drainage areas that allows water to pass but will not let sediment pass. This
material is usually black and must be relatively inexpensive because so much
is wasted at sites that I have
observed.>>

Interesting...I'm not familiar with this material, but dark colors absorb
heat. Isn't it true that by placing hives in the middle of a big black square
in hot weather, wouldn't we be raising the temperature around the hive?
With at least 5 of the 10 hottest years recorded having occurred in the past
decade, temperature (along with ventiliation) are big stress factors for bees
these days. If it could be found in other colors, then yes, perhaps. This
would also make the hives more visible — a good thing where hives are near
commercially sprayed crops. A not-so-good thing where vandals and thieves are
an issue, like in California around almond pollination time.