CHESHIRE BEEKEEPERS' ASSOCIATION

Apes curamus et nos curant (We look after bees and they look after us)
Founded 1899
Registered Charity No. 227494
We've been buzzing over 100 years 1899-2013

Integrated Pest Management 2008

South Cheshire provided the venue for a day’s course on IPM on 9th August. I can only describe it as a roaring success.

The Bee Inspectors from the National Bee Unit’s Western Region were the lecturers for the day: Dave Sutton, Regional Bee Inspector, Dave Maslen, Jo Schup and Terry Ashley, all Seasonal Bee Inspectors, gave up their Saturday for our benefit.

Dave Maslen began the day with his address: “Coping with the Resistant Mite”. It is obvious that Apistan and Bayvarol are of little use—for the time being anyway, and Dave went through the various alternatives—some more laborious than others. His demonstration of dusting with icing sugar was particulary convincing. I will certainly give this method a try. Just by chance, Graham Royle had brought some travel-screens and bee-brushes along, which he was able to sell to those won over by Dave’s demonstration!

Jo Schup took us to lunch-time with “Good Hygiene in the Apiary” - a practice which must be taken to heart by all those who wish to remain beekeepers.

After lunch, the group was divided into two, one group examining numerous real-life examples of brood diseases and one listening to Dave Sutton, on “Recognising and Dealing with the Foulbroods”.

Another welcome brew was followed by Jo Schup’s “Introduction to Beebase” - a useful tool for all those with an internet connection (but not only those), and a way of cooperating with the bee inspectorate to mutual advantage. Jo showed us how everybody, not just those with a computer, could register with Beebase, so that they would receive swift notification in the event of an outbreak of disease.

Dave Sutton then subjected us all to a quiz, making it as light-hearted as it could be, considering that it was all about the identification of brood diseases.

The end of the day was then taken up with questions and answers, terminating at 5 p.m.

I must thank the members of the NBU for providing a very informative and practically useful day, with a host of handouts on every aspect of the subject of bee-health.

We are very fortunate in this Branch in having members willing to lend a hand with the chores involved in such events—cleaning, and the setting out and putting away of tables and chairs, for example—huge jobs if they are not shared. In some cases our members have spouses who are also willing to help, and we are very grateful to Joan Burns, who, with her husband, Bob’s, assistance, organised our refreshments throughout the day (over 15o brews!), adding immeasurably to the pleasant atmosphere.

Sue Bailey, although quite poorly and unable to attend, provided the lunches for our speakers—which they very much appreciated. David Buckley transported the goods safe and sound.

Because this is a “hands on” course, places have to be limited, and quite a few members were unsuccessful in applying for a ticket. There are still a large number of CBKA members who have not yet attended an IPM day, so I think, after the enthusiastic reception given to the last two, there would be demand for another one, if the NBU are willing.

Bob Parsonage

©2007 Cheshire Beekeepers' Association

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