Here is a new approach to apiary science - Research from a beekeeper’s perspective
In recent years the apiary community has explored a variety of pest management practices to reduce varroa mite infestations, but few practices have yielded long term success. We have launched a citizen science field study this year in the mid-Atlantic region among hobbyist and small scale beekeepers. We are testing the effects that splitting during the mid-summer months has on varroa mite populations and the managerial efficacy of the program that we are developing. The data that is collected is specifically relevant to mid-Atlantic beekeepers; however, it is helpful to beekeepers everywhere.
CITIZEN science typically refers to research collaborations between scientists and the general public, particularly to expand opportunities for scientific data collection and to provide access to scientific information for community members.