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NEW ZEALAND BEEKEEPER, JUNE 2017
Varroa control Ross McCusker, Heathstock Apiaries
Hawarden, demonstrated his regime of organic varroa mite control, incorporating drone trapping, oxalic acid in sugar syrup during spring and autumn, with formic acid pads in February. He pointed out that experience in treating with organic chemicals is vital, such as the speed at which you spray, and how often. Fiona O’Brien, Beeline Apiaries Otorohanga, discussed management of the varroa mite, and the extreme importance of testing for mite numbers (both before and after the use of miticides). “You should also be exploring other treatments, so if/when resistance to chemical treatments occurs you will know what to do. Be prepared.” Fiona has found alcohol washes far more effective than sugar shakes to monitor mite populations. Other topics Martin Laas, Midlands Apiaries Ashburton spoke of water supply issues for bees caused by heavy stocking rates on pollination, removal of groundwater sources (stock water races and flood irrigation) and contamination of water with agrichemicals. Martin presented the findings from the Midlands Apiaries 2016/2017 Carrot Pollination Trial in which artificial drinking stations for water were assessed. Sean Goodwin, 100% Pure NZ Honey from Washdyke, discussed the MPI mānuka honey science definition and international honey markets. “The honey industry, particularly mānuka, has a strong future ahead if we can manage the challenges we’ve seen here today.” Dennis Crowley, commercial beekeeper from the North Island presented on kiwifruit pollination, and Maggie James gave insights into her methodology for successful large- scale queen cell production. Alan Wright and Pam Speedy, hobbyist beekeepers from Ashburton, attended the field day. “We found it interesting to see how things are progressing,” Pam said. “Coming together with the commercial guys, to share information and network, has been very valuable for us.”
Photo: John Hartnell.
Ross McCusker, Heathstock Apiaries Hawarden demonstrates part of his organic varroa mite treatment regime, using oxalic acid in sugar syrup. Photo: Rebecca Lees.
Owen Payne, Timaru hobbyist beekeeper speaks to Maggie James, queen rearer and presenter. Photo: Rebecca Lees.
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