Hello James & All, James wrote: Given that coal tar products can be used as insecticides, and that coal tar creosote is what is used as a wood preservative, I'd be *very* apprehensive about using creosote in an apiary operation. Coal tar creosote may have insecticidal properties. Thanks James for the input. I should have added the beekeeper also had his four way pallets treated. I was offered the pallets & bottom boards for sale after his death but like you were apprehensive so I declined. I have seen beekeeping sales with a small number of creosote dipped bottom boards. I started beekeeping in rural Florida years ago and remember beekeepers using creosote bottom boards. The use was not widespread. Bob for more information http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/tfacts85.html