Barry Birkey wrote:

> So now instead of  just paying
> for chemicals to treat the bees, we add to that the cost of special queens
> and labor. I fail to understand this idea.

While I agree with your point that combining the two practices proves
nothing, I have no trouble understanding why people might do it.  Perhaps
they are simply doing all they can to remain viable during a time of
increasing colony losses.  I am a recent comer to beekeeping and have never
seen 30% or more of my colonies wiped out over winter.  I can barely imagine
how discouraging that must be.

I also think Allen made a good point when he said:

> The success of a technique does not have to be absolute to be
> considered worthwhile.  If SMR only reduces the need for
> treatment by half, it will still be a success.

If SMR bees enable people to treat once a year instead of twice (for
example) that sounds like significant success to me.

Frank.
-----
The very act of seeking sets something in motion to meet us;
something in the universe, or in the unconscious responds as if
to an invitation.  - Jean Shinoda Bolen