George has written a few messages recently (and perhaps others not as
recently) talking about the use of screened bottom boards and non-use of
entrance reducers in order to promote ventillation in the hive, even during
the winter.

Each time I read about this I wonder if it is applicable in climates like
mine in Eastern Ontario, where winter lasts a good long time and
temperatures are sometimes below -20C (Less than 0 degrees F) for a week or
to at a time, and not infrequently reach -30C.

With open screened bottoms it seems to me that the hives are going to be
pretty much the same temperature inside as out - is that the case?

Can my bees survive long periods of time at -20 degrees?

I'm told that bees here start raising brood again towards the end of
February.  My understanding is that chilled brood is dead brood.  Can the
bees maintain a survivable brood nest temperature in a ventilated hive with
an inside temperature of -20 degrees C?

Frank.
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The very act of seeking sets something in motion to meet us;
something in the universe, or in the unconscious responds as if
to an invitation.  - Jean Shinoda Bolen