> >I guess I will have to go to California and speak to those beeks about the
> error of their ways! If the above is true ( which Randy has hinted at in
> his
> articles) the California beeks are casting a bad light on commercial beeks
> everywhere!
>

Bob, I've traveled to over a dozen states in the past two years, speaking to
beekeepers from coast to coast.  I've looked at test results from all over
the country.  Commercial bees are alive today largely due to off label use
of miticides, across the country.

I do not say this with criticism, as in general, beekeepers are using them
fairly wisely, and have not caused headlines by contaminating honey.  In
most cases, the miticides used are simply the ag version of miticides
registered for use in bee hives.

As far as California commercial beeks, they are as a group very sharp
(myself, of course, excluded) and up to date on research and all bee
problems and solutions.  They get to see every year what out of state
beekeepers consider to be strong colonies of bees when they unload their
deadouts and dinks into the almond orchards to be robbed out.  Because of
this fact, we are forced to learn about every new pest and parasite as soon
as it shows up anywhere in the U.S.

However, if you wish to come speak to them about the error of their ways,
please let me know the date and venue.  I guarantee that it will be a show
well worth the admission!

Randy Oliver

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