Being a TBH beekeeper I think you made a good decision Bill, for all the reasons you've mentioned. I've been working TBH's for about 7 years and can say with confidence that a varroa control strategy is important whether it be chemical free or not. Myself I have stayed away from the chemical treatments through shook swarming and brood interruptions maintaining healthy bees and producing a modest honey crop. To do nothing will have a negative out come. Take into account that any where you can winter a single deep you can winter a TBH.

From my perspective all beekeepers should understand how to keep at least some bees with out the help of chemical intervention as an educational opportunity. It could be very enlightening.      

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