Here in Livermore, CA we do have to monitor and treat for mites. I generally treat twice to three times a year with MAQS and OA from August to December. 

In all this discussion of mite infestation % I've not heard anyone say if the mites/100 bees is measured or an approximation. 1/3 cup of bees is approximately 300 bees? Where are bees collected from. Randy Oliver and others have written on this subject and have given some great advice/recommendations. 

I have 6 colonies and monitor each several times a year (March, June, August, Oct). I take bees from at least two frames in the 4-7 frame location of one of two deeps (brood boxes). I count mites and bag the bees then count the bees to get a good/reliable infestation %. I know that this is not reasonable for most sideliners/commercial bee keepers but for me it gives me a more accurate infestation % than a 1/3 cup/300 bees approximation that could be several % off if an actual count of the bee samples was performed. 

Scott, Livermore, CA
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