Although the introduction to Australia of varroa mites is a catastrophe currently unfolding, For some of the beekeepers there is an element of karma.
Because back when varroa were first discovered and the eradication program put in place, a bunch of Aussie beekeepers objected to the "draconian" program, making Youtube videos about how evil it was, and even openly discussing on their chat sites about moving bees they had in affected areas, to clean areas, to "save them" from being destroyed by the government. This despite that the government was paying very generous compensation for any hives destroyed.
It only took a small percentage of beekeepers to move hives from the infected areas into clean areas, to keep the spread of varroa going. Until the government basically threw in the towel and said OK, you guys will have to live with it.
Got to say though, my sympathies to all the beekeepers who did support and get behind the program.
www.9news.com.au
Because back when varroa were first discovered and the eradication program put in place, a bunch of Aussie beekeepers objected to the "draconian" program, making Youtube videos about how evil it was, and even openly discussing on their chat sites about moving bees they had in affected areas, to clean areas, to "save them" from being destroyed by the government. This despite that the government was paying very generous compensation for any hives destroyed.
It only took a small percentage of beekeepers to move hives from the infected areas into clean areas, to keep the spread of varroa going. Until the government basically threw in the towel and said OK, you guys will have to live with it.
Got to say though, my sympathies to all the beekeepers who did support and get behind the program.
Beekeepers battling 'perfect storm' of threats to their future
Australian beekeepers are warning they face their biggest test for decades as the full impact of the varroa...
www.9news.com.au
