From: Bob Harrison <[log in to unmask]>

> As several have pointed out in the discussion. Why spend the money and
> effort to treat if treatment is not needed?
>
> Sincerely,
> Bob Harrison
>
> Ps. When the draught  was going on in Georgia and Florida many claimed
> success controlling the small hive beetle with various methods. The rains
> came and the SHb was back with a vengeance. Many beekeepers were caught
> unprepared. Is the low rate of varroa we are seeing only a temporary
> situation caused by unknown issues?

Hello Bob -

Your Ps sums it up well. I'd be very cautious about how you interpret your
low mite count for the very reason you state about the SHB. The major
difference between Dennis, and I assume you, is that Dennis has not treated
his bees for a couple of years. Let's give this some more time to see how it
all pans out with no treatments on yours and Dennis' before we claim
anything, as it may very well be just a bump in the road, only to come back
stronger the next year.

Regards,
Barry