Werner Gysi’s modified springtime method of; Swarm Control, Varroa Control, and Queen Replacement: He calls it SMC, sustainable mite control (everyone has to have a three letter acronym!) Timing: is when the dandelions are in full bloom. This will vary from one beekeeper to another due to the microclimates of the bee yard locations. Dandelion… Continue reading Werner Gysi’s Modified Method
Category: Useful Information
Lithium for Varroa treatment
At our March meeting I mentioned the recent (published Jan 2018) article detailing the discovery that various Lithium compounds can be used to control Varroa mites. If you would like to read this article for yourself, here is the link; https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-19137-5#Tab2
February Meeting
Happy Imbolc, Candlemas, Groundhog Day! The West Kootenay Beekeepers will have their next meeting on Sunday, 4 February at Paul Taylor’s place, 987 Bridgeview Road in Lower Ootischenia. We will gather at the usual time of 13:00 to 15:00. Dave Johnson will do a presentation on Michael Palmer's double nuc system, and will also be… Continue reading February Meeting
Another Effect of Climate Change?
The following article was sent to me by beekeeper Alice. It is quite long but very interesting in that it shows that as carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere rise, plants can grow bigger and faster by producing more carbohydrate (sugars and starch). But at the same time the nutrient content of proteins, vitamins, and… Continue reading Another Effect of Climate Change?
Upcoming Beginner Courses
Beginner Beekeeping courses are starting up again for 2018. 1. East Kootenay - Cranbrook. Lance And Bobby Cuthill will run their usual course; BCHPA INTRODUCTORY BEEKEEPING COURSE 2 Full Classroom Days Feb 24/25 1 Field Day working with Honey Bees date to be announced BC Honey Producers Certified Instructor Class size limited to 12 persons… Continue reading Upcoming Beginner Courses
First Meeting of 2018
Happy New Year! The West Kootenay Beekeepers will have their first meeting of 2018 on Sunday, 7 January at Paul Taylor's place, 987 Bridgeview Road in Lower Ootischenia. We will gather at the usual time of 13:00 to 15:00. Bronwyn will have her computer and projector set up to share some of the more popular… Continue reading First Meeting of 2018
East Kootenay Beekeepers Fall Educational Meeting
Got the following e-mail from Lance Cuthill; East Kootenay Beekeepers Fall Educational Meeting WHEN: October 21 – 1:00pm to 4:00pm WHERE: Cranbrook Library – Manual Arts Room WHO: Beekeepers & Interested Persons COST: $5.00 – Coffee Provided BRING: Paper, Pen & Items for Sale START 1:00 pm WELCOME & INTRODUCTIONS 1. Report from… Continue reading East Kootenay Beekeepers Fall Educational Meeting
Current Neonic Information
An interesting article and video on a recent Neonic study; https://beta.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/scientists-say-no-longer-any-doubt-about-impact-of-pesticides-on-bees/article36295969/?ref=https://www.theglobeandmail.com&service=mobile
Annual Spring Bee Health Survey
Got the following e-mail from Paul van Westendorp today. Please take a few minutes to fill it in. It is totally anonymous but will greatly help in producing the national picture as how our bees are doing. "Dear BC Beekeeper, The Apiculture Program is carrying out its annual Spring Survey again. Please click the direct… Continue reading Annual Spring Bee Health Survey
Need sugar for spring feeding?
Beekeeper Fred has sent in an e-mail to say that Kootenay Market in Castlegar has sugar on sale at 10 kg for $9.99.
