WE are in a serious drought here in south Texas. Many "experienced" beekeepers are warning of little to no nectar flows if we do not receive rain soon and in abundance. I talked with a rancher who told me he did not think we could buy an inch of rain if we knew who to pay. That's dry! California is reporting the possibility of a third dry year. They are telling the almond industry that a water shortage in prime almond growing country is here. Many almond producers have cancelled pollination contracts because of the water shortage. This will likely affect us here in south Texas. Many beekeepers here and those planning to migrate here for the spring nectar flows are busy. Many plans were made last year and bees and equipment need to be prepared. While we do not know the future, only God does, we still need to carry on and pray for rain.

Many of you have heard the talk going around about chemicals. Some say chemicals are good and necessary, others say the chemical manufactures and their products are evil. I received an email from a beekeeper with a good chemical background. He has had some good conversation with me about chemicals. I pasted the good content of the email here for you to read and respond to the EPA.

“If you think that imidacloprid has or, may be causing a problem, here is a heads up. EPA is accepting public comments. Spread the word far and wide and let’s let EPA find out that beekeepers aren't always sleeping...

Greetings,

This email is to inform you that the comment period for the registration review of imidacloprid has recently opened. Below you will find a link to the imidacloprid docket. Through this link, you can view the Agency's preliminary work plan and supporting documents for imidacloprid. You are also invited to submit comments regarding these documents and the Agency's plan to review imidacloprid. All comments must be received on or before March 17, 09.

http://www.regulations.gov/fdmspublic/component/main?main=DocketDetail&d=EPA-HQ-OPP-2008-0844

Please contact me if you have any questions.

Regards,

Rusty Wasem

Chemical Review Manager

Reregistration Branch I

Special Review & Reregistration Division

703/305-6979”

Don’t Forget!

To be at the Salt Lick BBQ Restaurant in Round Rock, TX Saturday, February 21st at 11am for the TBA Winter Delegate’s Meeting. For all of the details, see page 4 of the 08 Nov/Dec Issue of the TBA Journal.