All,

I wouldn't mind spending more for queens that are mite resistant.  My wife
and I only have two hives, and this is our first year in bee keeping.  We
are still having trouble with swarming and have gone through at least 4
queens in the last year.  I would think that having better genetic stock
would help the local feral colonies too by providing better drones for
future generations.  We are trying to do Integrated Pest Management, using
screened boards, removing drone comb ... and so far our mite level is pretty
low, but I would love to farm as chemical free as possible, so far we have
only used Fumigillin - B in the winter feed and sugar and grease patties.

Is anyone keeping a list of breeders and traits or can someone point me to
some good information about how to find these queens?   Is anyone having any
success after buying these queens?  Is anyone farming miteicide free?

Ron

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