Subject: Re: Open Mesh Floors/Large Entrances
Date: Fri, 19 Jan 2001 11:01:29 -0800
From: "Helmut,E.Garz" <hommes@olympus.net>
To: BiologicalBeekeeping@egroups.com

Hello Dee
As I said since 1999 , I am using the original SBB ( Screened bottom
board ) .See Barry's plans on his web site " Beesource"
A further modification was developed later that year. An adjustable
slide - in / out 1/4 plywood or masonite serves as Varroa counting
device or ventilation adjustment. The debris accumulation from the
colony is never a problem since the mess , if any, can be cleaned
without disturbing the colony.
The total entry to the hive is 5/16 by 5 inches which still requires a
mouse entry prevention device.
Dr Tom Sanford introduced this method in early 1999 in one of his Apis
letters.
This method is used in Germany as well as other European countries as
Eric mentioned . In France a different type of construction is used
serving the same purpose.
Yesterday I read further information coming from a Danish source which
stated that this method is used since 40 years and is apparently common
all over Denmark. ( Damp / cool as in other areas around northern Europe )
I have found no evidence that chalk brood is somehow related to these
boards since I had chalk brood in my two TBH hives as well as in SBB
hives . That does not mean in every one of them. Furthermore Chalk brood
is found in the neighborhood employing neither one construction but run
of the mill Langstroth.
It is observed that the bees are busy getting rid of the mummies and one
removes them from the flight deck.
I have no data from observation as it relates to more or less
ventilation within the temperature and humidity ranges. I am still
evaluating it.
My concern is not so much the about chalk brood incidents but the Nosema
/ Diarrhea problem.
I have posted my measures about the cell size and I cannot say that
there is any difference of the measures during the time frame of then
and now.
I am expecting the order of 4.9 foundations within a week from Dadant of
Illinois.
I have the inclination to say that in your climate these boards would be
of definite benefit since you might find that fanning is greatly reduced
thus giving more time for the bees to do the collecting rather than
wasting time blowing hot air.
I appreciate your comments and explanations of your methods and value
them greatly.
Thanks
Happy beeing to all
Helmut