The goal of all beekeepers should be to reduce chemical inputs in bee colonies to avoid comb and hive product contamination and the negative effects the treatments may pose to bee health. One way to accomplish this goal is to use bee stocks that can defend themselves against diseases and parasitic mites. Stocks that resist Varroa mites include the VSH and Russian bees. A stock that resists diseases (AFB, chalkbrood) and Varroa mites is the MN Hygienic line. However, even these stocks will succumb to diseases and mites if they are in close contact with many other infected and infested colonies (e.g., in migratory beekeeping operations). All colonies, stationary and migratory, should be monitored at least twice a year for mites and diseases. For more information on diseases and parasites, consider taking the on-line course produced by the University of Minnesota, called “Healthy Bees”.

- Marla Spivak, University of Minnesota

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