Earlier this year there was a lot of discussion on another list (Bee
Source), and some discussion on this list, concerning whether 'commercial'
beekeepers should also be permitted  to be inspectors.  The issue was
whether the inherent conflicts of interest overcame the obvious benefits of
their experience.  A few or several beekeepers in upstate NY, where most of
the honey is produced, told horror stories of such conflicts.  I do not
recall any such instances in the Long Island area.

My understanding is that the NYS Ethics Commission was informed of a
contemporaneous conflict by a beekeeper  who had an unsatisfactory
experience with an inspector who was also a commercial beekeeper.  After
consideration the NYS Ethics Commission ruled that hence no inspectors could
be commercial beekeepers.  "My understanding" is heresy so may not be
accurate.  I do not know the definition of 'commercial beekeeper'.

Few matters are ever black and white and this is one that is not.  While we
have lost valuable knowledge, some beekeepers will benefit.

-- 
Lloyd Spear
Owner Ross Rounds, Inc.
Manufacture of equipment for round comb honey sections,
Sundance Pollen Traps, and producer of Sundance custom labels.
Contact your dealer or www.RossRounds.com

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