I use paper towels in my smoker, and when it gets going I grab a handful of grass and put it in on top. Makes a lot of smoke, and cools the whole thing down a lot. I just have two hives, so my smoker doesn't have to stay lit for very long. Now that I think about it that may be why I've never been inclined to have more than 2 or 3 hives - subconsciously I knew I couldn't keep my smoker lit through an inspection tour of 4. Guy F. Miller My basic credo: If you walk slow enough, Charlottesville. VA you can lead the next parade.