JACKSON, Miss. (WTVA) -- The Evironmental Protection Agency has approved two emergency exemptions to help Mississippi beekeepers control damaging varroa mite infestations in honey bee colonies.
Mississippi Agriculture Commissioner Cindy Hyde-Smith announced the approval of HopGuard and Apivar.
HopGuard cardboard strips are inserted in colonies or packages of adult worker bees prior to installation in the colony.
Apivar is a slow-release plastic strip treated with a pesticide that is released when it comes in contact with bees.
The varroa mite is a harmful, honey bee parasite that feeds on adult bees and developing brood and eventually kill the colony if left untreated.
For additional information, beekeepers may contact the Bureau of Plant Industry at (662) 325-3390 or toll-free at 1-888-257-1285.
