Applied Research Projects

CURRENTLY PROJECT: Comparative Study of DIY and Commercial Oxalic Acid–Glycerin Treatments Using Cellulose-Based Pads for Varroa Management During the Summer Season

Researchers: Dr. Renata Labuschagne, ABC TTP, Dr. Olav Rueppell, Claudia Figueroa, Alberta beekeepers.

Objectives:

1. Create a Standard Working Procedure for handling and mixing oxalic acid and glycerin.
2. Compare the efficacy of three pad materials in delivering oxalic acid and glycerin as a slow-release treatment for Varroa mites.
3. Assess the effects of the treatments on mite infestation levels and overwinter survival.
4. Conduct chemical residue analysis of the treatment pads and honey.

Research Projects

Final Report

Researchers: Dr. Shelley Hoover & Dr. Renata Labuschagne

Objective: 1) Provide proof of concept that overwintering queens en masse is feasible in Alberta. 2) Develop prototype management strategies for mass overwintering queens in Alberta. 3) Validate the performance and quality of overwintered new summer-mated queens.

Final Report 

Researchers: Samantha Muirhead, Dr. Renata Labuschagne & Alexandra Panasiuk

Objective: Alberta’s Tech Transfer Program (TTP) and the Government of Alberta’s Bee Health Assurance Team (BHAT) have been proactively working to assess Apivar® efficacy across Alberta. Our goal is to continue randomly screen Varroa mite populations from across the province before treatments are applied in the fall.

Past Updates

• 2019 Apimondia
• 2020 New Beekeeper Services