At 02:06 PM 10/8/96 -0400, you wrote: >I am considering using a hive scale next year to monitor more accurately the >timing of nectar flows, and as a means of learning more about what is >happening inside the hive. I am new to beekeeping, but nevertheless, I am >aware of the significance of hive weight (especially going into winter here >in northeastern ohio). To have a hive on a scale is a terrific learning tool. We have charted one for years and it is indeed interesting. On the downside, the hive I keep on a scale always outperforms all of me other colonies. Maybe I should buy more scales :) >This might be from out in left field, but I have been trying to determine >the relative weight of my hives. I tilt a hive to the side and insert a >common bathroom scale between the bottom of the hive and the hive stand. >The reading becomes an index which I use in comparing other hives "weighed" >in the same manner. The resulting information is limited, but simply >knowing the relative weights of my hives is somewhat useful. With more >experience a simple "heft" might be good enough. How about 2 bathroom scales, lift one side onto the scale, then the other onto the second scale. The weight is the sum of the two scales. It is a little more work but will be accurate. After a few trials you should be able to prepare a table that will give you a pretty good idea of the weight from a single scale. After awhile, you should be able to simply heft one side and 'know' the weight. Eric Eric Abell Gibbons, Alberta Canada (403) 998 3143 [log in to unmask]