There is no way one bee business can do significant R&D on all aspects of
the operation.  So we focus our R&D on one or two areas and rely on the
industry around us to do R&D in other areas and then we buy their products
and services.  My primary R&D area has been equipment innovation, and yet
there are many equipment areas (e.g., foundation) where I rely in the
industry.  Joe Waggle and others invest in genetics.  I expect that a close
look at major migratory operations would reveal high levels of innovation
and R&D commitment in areas the owner bets are most critical.  If the bets
are sound, they get to stay in business.

Over the past few years I've begun to invest R&D in queen rearing and stock
selection.  The goals are peculiar to my management practices and do not
include development of a mite-proof bee that can survive without help.  Time
will tell if my bets are sound.

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