We have small cell frames, and buy resistant
> queens.  We still have mite levels that are above tolerable levels.

I think its important to point out Dee does not treat for known bee problems
(not simply a varroa issue) except as I understand for her propolis patties.

Varroa:

If you ask commercial beekeepers what has been your biggest challenge today
in beekeeping the answer is always the same. Varroa.

Understanding varroa is an absolute necessity. many beekeepers keep losing
hives to varroa.

The most important point about varroa for commercial beekeepers ( other than
Dee I suppose) is the term *threshold* .

Once a hive crosses threshold the hive is a goner. Treatment is a waste of
time and money. I must point out threshold exact levels are not agreed on by
all beekeepers and researchers *but* all agree the term *threshold* is real.

the hive becomes a  reservoir for varroa waiting to be robbed with varroa
infested bees drifting to other hives . Many new beekeepers might not fully
understand the term reinfestation but those of us which have been at the
front lines of varroa still see the problem.

Many times researchers and presenters try to overcomplicate varroa control.

Varroa getting control over a hive of bees does not happen overnight. Varroa
loss can appear another problem to the untrained eye as in a holding yard
each week another percent of the hives crash. Many think a yet not found
*new* problem is causing the problem.

bob

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