Exploring Sustainable Beekeeping: Varroa Mite Resistance and Native Bee Diversity

Dr. John Kiefus, a beekeeping virtuoso with his hands in hives across continents, joins us to unravel his journey from the fields of Michigan to the picturesque landscapes of France. We dive into his world of treatment-free beekeeping and the crucial pivot away from chemical treatments for varroa mites, a change driven by health and sustainability. Alongside tales of his ventures in South America and the innovative use of bumblebees for greenhouse pollination, Dr. Kiefus offers invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of beekeeping, highlighting his dedication to bee stewardship and sustainable practices. Venture further into the complexities of managing Varroa mite infestations with unconventional techniques and genetic resistance, as recounted by fellow beekeeper Mr. Osi and his collaboration with Wolfgang Witter. We scrutinize the intricate balance between high honey production and low mite presence, emphasizing the strategic importance of bond testing. The discussion extends to the economic implications and the challenges of breeding mite-resistant bees, underlining the pressing need for a paradigm shift towards sustainable beekeeping that values adaptability and resilience. Our journey doesn't stop there. We spotlight the economic and ecological benefits of supporting native bee diversity and the looming threat of invasive hornets in France. Randy Oliver's evolving insights on mite resistance enrich our conversation, urging a broader perspective in research and practice. Through diverse planting strategies and disease-resistant bee selection, we explore the potential for coexistence between honeybees and wild bees, reinforcing the importance of open-mindedness and innovation in beekeeping for a thriving ecosystem. Dr. John Kefuss began experimenting with the possibility of breeding resistant bees before it was known it could be done. He promotes his "Bond Method" of selection as both more healthy and economical than chemical treatment for both bees and their keepers. We discuss his evolution on beekeeping after practicing beekeeping across the world, from both Americas & Europe, and what 50 years of beekeeping, 25 of which treatment free, has taught him about this timeless practice. Check out his recent study from 2015 on treatment-free beekeeping: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/00218839.2016.1160709 For sources and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Key words: Key Words: Beekeeping, Varroa Mites, Sustainable Practices, Treatment-Free, Genetic Resistance, Pollination, Bumblebees, Honey Production, Native Bee Diversity, Invasive Species, Randy Oliver, Disease Resistance, Flexible Learning, Discounts, Capella University, Whole Foods Market, Nordstrom Rack, Amica Auto Insurance, Winter Essentials Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.