Hello All, The problem now talked about is being seen in many areas including parts of the U.S. In many areas the first signs are low honey production and as shown high winter losses. Beekeepers in areas unaffected are not worried but as the problem effects their areas are starting to see the problem. In the U.S. the finger pointing is as in the post towards pesticides. Perhaps true? Perhaps not. With the high price of honey in the U.S. (and the world) many are not as concerned as they would be if under the former price structure. In other words if you get a 33% winter loss but honey and pollination prices are high you can survive. Problem is ignoring the problem is not the answer as once an area starts having problems then the problem persists (as shown in Europe and in areas of the U.S.). We are seeing a low honey production in the Midwest this year for unexplained reasons and hives not thriving in areas they should be. My friends in Europe say poor wintering comes next if the problem seen in Europe is starting in the midwest. I am seeing ( and first to report on BEE-L) a start of a situation I can not explain and do not understand. I will keep the list posted as to the Midwest situation. Bob " to be a success in beekeeping the beekeeper needs to keep a close watch on his bees & bee hives!" :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: -- Visit www.honeybeeworld.com/BEE-L for rules, FAQ and other info --- ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::