Pete said >And unless you are very far from any commercial beekeepers (50 to
100 miles, at least) it is likely that your bees are only a generation or
two from being commercially raised stock.

Pete, I can't agree with you on this.  There are at least four studies to
the contrary.

It is indeed possible for commercial yards to flood an area with swarms and
drones, but only if those commercial bees are healthy and strong enough, in
great enough density, and present during swarming season.  The last
condition is important, since most large operations are migratory, and the
only location that counts is where they are during swarming season.

Otherwise, feral populations are able to maintain genetic identity despite
managed bee presence.

I also agree with Joe's assessment of the importance of varroa resistance
traits other than VSH.  I feel that VSH is likely the most important, but
other traits just as much so in the long run.

Randy Oliver

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