>It is a non issue for California beekeepers.
>
> Although a few very vocal beekeepers are trying to make neonics a major
> issue, I simply do not find widespread support for that point of view as I
> visit beekeeper conventions across the country, and I go to over a dozen
> each year.

has always been the case when beekeepers can not test for a problem easily 
are recognise easily.
tracheal mites
nosema ceranae
pesticide & fungicide kills
I could add:
levels of varroa infestation (I don't see varroa on my bees)

Many beekeepers are accepting higher losses as the new normal. I even fight 
the concept myself by thinking losses in the low 20% is good.


Only sideline & commercial usually look close at die offs.
few hives (not even a statistic ) are tested by researchers.

> that until and unless there is some concrete evidence gathered that shows
> that the EPA was wrong in considering them to be "low risk" insecticides,
> that protesting their registration is trying to make a case with scant
> evidence.

Protesting and raising concerns is OK but beekeepers have not the money to 
force changes even if concrete proof existed.

"Living with varroa"
was a popular theme when varroa arrived.
"living with today's pesticides & fungicides"
Is what beekeepers need to do.

 beekeeping as we know it today may be very different in 10-20 years.

bob

fast post as 3 am and need to get on road. 

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