more as usual possibly conflicting information [re CCD]


Brian, I spoke with three major bee brokers, and some large beekeepers, in
the past two days.  No one is mentioning CCD problems in Calif.

There are clearly some operations in the US with serious problems, though.
Also, a number with nosema, mite, nutrition, or other problems.

Overall, the supply of bees in Calif, which is an indicator of US supply,
appears to be strong, although this may well be due to decreased demand due
to water issues.

There is an ugly price-cutting war on at the last minute here, as desperate
beekeepers try to get any sort of income off yards of unrented colonies.
There is a great deal of animosity by California beekeepers (who depend upon
almond pollination for income) towards out of state beekeepers who are
driving pollination prices down.

The resentment is that some other states make it difficult for Calif
beekeepers to place bees for summer pasture, yet California allows any and
all to come crash our party, leave a mess, and stick us with the bill.

I am simply reporting the opinions of others--they do not necessarily
reflect the opinions of management, staff, or sponsors, and we are not
directly pointing any fingers at my friend Bob Harrison, whose name has not
been changed to protect the innocent.  :)

Randy Oliver

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