In the preservation of bottom board discussion, one comment was to
use plywood strips for the spacer on top of plywood instead of the
common form of double sided bottom board with the offset rabbit.
My question is relative to the size of the space.  The double sided
bottom board makers claim the two spaces as an advantage although
it is a by product of the production method.  They say to use the
3/4 inch space in the summer for better ventilation and the 3/8
inch space in winter.  Is there any scientific evidence showing
that the 3/4 inch space is needed?  The 3/8 inch blocks mice and
is a fairly large area ( 15 X 3/8 ~= 5 square inches).  As long
as the paradigm is being changed, lets question the assumptions
of the old one.
 
The 3/4 inch space may just be a high barrier for the incoming bees
as they will build little wax and propolis hills to aid the climb.
 
Slatted racks - those units placed over the bottom board to stop
drafts.  They have sideways slats (orthogonal to the frame lines)
to block air currents and openings between, concentrated toward the
rear of the hive.  The proponents claim that the bees better utilize
the bottom brood chamber if they are used.  Others say that they
reduce air flow and make it more difficult for the bees to regulate
temperature.  Is there any scientific evidence? I mean a real study?
 
While we are challenging paradigms, The inner cover with the center
hand size punchout.  Is this a good place for the opening?  In
winter when air circulation is somewhat beneficial and one method of
providing the ventilation is to prop the outer cover up on one end
by 1/4 inch is it good to have this opening directly over the cluster?
Wouldn't circulation be better provided by side or corner holes.  Is
this location and shape a dinosaur from the spring-loaded bee escape
used for clearing supers?
 
Inquiring minds want to know!
 
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+    Raymond J. Lackey                                     +
+    Beekeeper 10 years with 25 colonies on Long Island, NY+
+    INTERNET: [log in to unmask]                       +
+    Mail: 1260 Walnut Avenue, Bohemia NY 11617            +
+    Home Phone: 516-567-1936  FAX: 516-262-8053           +
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