Integrating IPM Strategies in the Apiary for Varroa

Integrating IPM Strategies in the Apiary for Varroa

By Phillip Uptmor

It can be a challenge these days to keep bees and losing colonies happens more often than it did 40 years ago. Each spring, beekeepers buy packages & nucs to replace the previous winter losses. "There are many factors contributing to the decline of honey bees in the US including poor nutrition, increased pesticide loads in nectar and pollen, and higher pressure from pathogens and parasites."* The biggest threat to honey bee health is the varroa mite, Varrroa destructor. With plenty of research on various varroa mite management methods, like using hygienic genetic stocks, non-chemical treatment options (like drone comb removal) and chemical methods, how does a person decide which to choose to combat various honey bee pests?  (*https://lopezuribelab.com/ipm/)

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Phil Uptmor has been keeping bees in Chatham county since 2015 and is the owner of Harris Hives.  Phil is a NCSBA Master Beekeeper and is working towards his EAS Master Beekeeper certification.  Additionally, he is a past Chatham County Beekeepers Association president and NC Zoo chair.