The basic truth to remember is that the BIP data is a self-reported survey. Also, one cannot manage that which they do not measure. > " losses were SIGNIFICANTLY higher if they monitored (43.5%) compared to not (35%)" This might be better phrased as: "Far more accurate data is available from those who monitor their varroa loads, than those who do not". This should be no surprise - more accurate data of all types is available from those who actually keep records, rather than subscribing to a belief system that (incredibly) claims that they don't even need to monitor/record their mite loads. A pocket notebook from the dollar store and a pencil is the most fundamental beekeeping tool. Without it, one may own some bees, but cannot be said to be "keeping" them, in the sense of ethical/responsible animal husbandry. I like these best - sturdy sewn binding, appropriate cover, recycled, and pocket-sized. Also waaay cool. https://decomposition.com/product/pocket-4x6-decomposition-book-honeycomb-li ned-pages/ https://tinyurl.com/ya8mtoka This type is waterproof, but far less cool, for those days with less-than ideal weather: https://www.amazon.com/Indestructible-Waterproof-Tearproof-Weatherproof-Note book/dp/B0797HXYVQ?source=ps-sl-shoppingads-lpcontext&psc=1 https://tinyurl.com/y94lvs4q *********************************************** The BEE-L mailing list is powered by L-Soft's renowned LISTSERV(R) list management software. For more information, go to: http://www.lsoft.com/LISTSERV-powered.html