Panel: Current & Future Outlook on Varroa Mite Control
The parasitic mite, Varroa destructor, has held the title as the #1 contributor of honey bee health decline for years. Beekeepers struggle to manage Varroa mite levels in their colonies; some must apply treatment applications four times yearly to maintain healthy colonies. Elevated honey bee mortality rates drive the beekeeping industry and scientific community to find sustainable solutions to control Varroa mites. Here we present a panel discussion on the current and future outlook of Varroa mite control. Ellen Topitzhofer will moderate an industry- and science-based group of panelists: Todd Balsiger, Matt Hansen, Jan Lohman, and Dr. Ramesh Sagili. Topics include control strategies, amitraz resistance, Varroa resistant bee stock, and up-and-coming miticide treatments.
Jan Lohman has been a beekeeper for 30 years with partner Vincent Vazza at Vazza Farms in Eastern Oregon. Together they managed 2,300 honey bee colonies until late 2017. Now in retirement they would be considered Sideliners with 350 colonies, still enjoying relationships with fellow beekeepers and addicted to their beloved honey bees. Jan is also on the Oregon Master Beekeeper Program Committee as well as a mentor and instructor for that program, which is a great passion as well. Helping new beekeepers become comfortable in a bee hive is such a joy!