[log in to unmask] (Gerard Worrell):
>I'd like to initiate a discussion on cost saving practices in beekeeping.
Please feel free to submit a comment.
 
   Thanks, you hit a favorite theme of mine.  I don't have another job to
support my beekeeping, so I have to cut costs to the bone. Here's a few of my
*secrets.*
 
1.  15# roofing felt: One of the handiest materials I know.  We use a piece
of it in an old deep with one good side to make a nearly free nuc box, which
can vary from 3-6 frames.  The felt wraps over the top and alongside the last
frame.  If the cut is made dead center in the roll, it will leave a tiny gap
on the ends of the frames for an entrance.
Also, it can be used in a pinch for bottom boards on pallets, especially if
the deep has a hole or a bad corner for an entrance. Even for covers for a
short time.
 
2.  Your local soft drink manufacturer likely has numerous barrels and tanks
of various sizes.  Most are plastic, so are not useful for CCC loans, but can
be used for settling tanks, syrup feeding, etc.  Very cheap, and safe, since
only drink syrups have been in them.
 
3.  Donut shops generally have used pails that have had fillings in them.  I
like the four gallon size best, but they come in various sizes, for a buck or
so.  One and two gallon sizes are good for syrup feeders.  Much of the chili
used on southern style hot dogs comes in one or two gallon plastic
containers.  Some hot dog stands will give them to you, others charge a
nominal price.  Good for feeders.
 
4.  Our covers are all 16x20 plywood, generally 1/2 inch, though, if we can
get used or discount we sometimes use 5/8 or 3/4.  Telescoping covers are
bulky, expensive, and make bees very difficult to load on the truck.  The
insulation value is minor, and, if bees are kept in the shade in hot weather,
and given wind shelter in winter, are not really necessary.  Plywood lasts
longer if it is dipped in paint, rather than painted with a brush. If they
will be opened again before the next move, a brick on the cover will keep it
from blowing.  A flat brick is just to hold it down, one on its side means
they need feed. A brick standing on end means they need another check.  The
queen is not yet mated, she may be failing, or there is chalkbrood or other
reason to give them more attention. When we prepare bees for moving, the
covers are nailed with 3 or 4 penny sinker nails.  Covers that have warped
are turned over. The burr comb melts and serves as a preservative, and the
warp goes the other way..
 
5.  Do you have a pallet mill near you.  We had one that recently went out of
business, much to my dismay.  They could not use boards that were less than 2
feet in length, so they gave them away for firewood. Some was cypress, which
the owner would set aside and save for me, as I kept him liberally supplied
with honey - the only cost besides hauling.
 
6.  Duct tape.  Another handy material, especially if the bees want to rob,
and your equipment is old.  Great for when the kids won't keep their seat
belts fastened, too.
 
Now it's your turn......
 
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Dave Green, PO Box 1215, Hemingway, SC  29554