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BRIGHTON AND LEWES DIVISION OF THE SUSSEX BEEKEEPERS ASSOCIATIONwww.brightonlewesbeekeepers.co.uk

Volume 5 - May 2018 Editor: Norman Dickinson

The next apiary meeting will be at Cooksbridge where Ian will demonstrate a Bailey Comb Change

Next apiary meeting - Sunday, 29th April 2018 at Cooksbridge

Brighton & Lewes BeekeepersBrighton & Lewes Beekeepers

Newsletter

SBKA Bee Festival Saturday 19th May at Heathfield

Our first Summer meeting on April 14th saw the sun shining and the bees busy.  12 new bee-keepers had a greatopportunity to get up close and personal, some with a first encounter with a colony.Well done that all were happy to handle a frame & check for brood. A queen was spotted and marked.   Lots ofsensible questions were answered, but they did recognise that we all have different ways of bee-keeping, and wediscussed pros and cons of our own methods.   Ian demonstrated frame making, Connie supplied the refreshments-thanks again.And thank you to all the experienced bee keepers for respecting the request for beginners only.  Next meeting is foreveryone, and I look forward to seeing friends old and new at Ian's Apiary on April 29th.

Beginners Apiary Meeting at Barcombe - Report by Heather McNiven

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Amanda advises

April is my favourite month, full of promise,new green leaves and flowers. In spite of a

slow start the very warm spell in the second half ofApril (sadly just ending as I write this) has seen arapid succession of plants coming into flower buteach seeming to last a shorter time than usual in theheat. As I write this on St Georges day, already myplum, Amelanchier and fritillaries are over and theapple and pear and quince are in bloom. It has alsomeant I have noticed a lot of lovely solitary bees,bee flies and the honeybees have been very active. Iexpect another June (or late May) Gap this year, sowill need to keep an eye on stores in Mayespecially if we are lucky enough to take anysurplus honey. My largest colony (my letterboxswarm from last year) has already filled a super Igave them on 14th April, with brood andnectar/honey and I have given them another. Myothers which are smaller than usual should havebenefited from the heat, definitely no feedingrequired now.  Before any supers are added to thesesmall ones I shall remove frames of surplus winterhoney/syrup stores so it is not moved up tocontaminate the incoming nectar. The largercolonies have conveniently eaten most of theirstores and are now storing nectar. If it is warmer ina week or two it will be the right time to carry out ashook swarm if the brood frames are old, but manyof mine have moved up naturally and I now have astack of dark empty brood boxes to recycle andsterilize.With brood increasing it is important to keepmonitoring varroa, with nectar going in the onlypossible treatment as far as I am concerned is icingsugar dusting although MAQS is theoreticallypossible if you can live with the risk of queen loss.We also need to ensure they have plenty of roomfor brood and for nectar processing in order toreduce the risk of swarm preparations. My largestcolony did have a queen cup with an egg a weekago but the space I gave them seems to havechanged their minds. Oil Seed Rape is in full flowerand if there is any within 3 miles of bees we willneed to take any nectar/honey off as soon as theflowers go over. I noticed a lot along the A27 andthe Downs yesterday. So it is mainly monitoring forqueen cells and space, and don’t forget to do aspring health check. If your mites have got out ofhand you might expect to see things like Deformedwing virus and patchy brood.The way to have healthier bees is to select forhygienic behaviour. Sussex University uses liquidnitrogen to freeze-kill small sections of brood. If

90% of the dead sealedbrood is removed in 24hours the colony isdeemed hygienic. Liquidnitrogen is not verypractical for hobbybeekeepers but smallsections (4cm x 4cm) ofsealed brood can be cutout, put in the freezeruntil dead and thenreinserted. Still a bit of a performance! I wasinterested to find a scientific paper which comparedanother even simpler Pin method, (marking onesealed cell with queen marking ink and thenpricking and wiggling with a pin a group of sevencells immediately under it to kill them), with thespeed of removal of (weighed) fibrous cardsuspended between two brood frames – surely themost non-invasive and easy method yet. Theyfound a strong correlation between the cardremoval and pin pricked brood removal in hygieniccolonies. Unfortunately, they did not give manydetails and I will need to calibrate the card removalto the pin test. So having ordered a quantity of beermats on Ebay, I shall try it out when it warms up.Watch this space!I saw a pair of great tits chasing after my honeybees which had come down to a water source.Fortunately, I did not see any of the bees actuallybeing caught. Today I saw a solitary bee, with legscovered in pollen disappear down a tunnel she hadexcavated in the soil in the bare ground behind ahive.  I waited to photograph her when she emergedin order to identify her, but she could clearly seeme and kept popping back down when I broughtthe camera near. Eventually I left her alone aftergetting a picture of her peering over the edge of thetunnel at me.

Required reading: The Slippery Life of theSmall Hive Beetle, on the Honeybeesuite web-

site https://honeybeesuite.com/tag/small-hive-bee-tles/

\\\\\amanda head.jpg

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As you may be aware, Companies and organisations such as Brighton & Lewes Beekeepers(B&L) and the BBKA are required to comply with the existing UK Data Protection Act 1998.Further to this, a new EU Law, known as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)has been released which will come into force from 25th May 2018. This new law has beendesigned to smooth data privacy laws across Europe as well as providing the improvedprotection and rights of individuals.

Please also note that the GDPR is not to be confused with the recent Data Protection Bill thatwas announced during the Queens speech. The Data Protection Bill will replace the DataProtection Act 1998, and will also incorporate the GDPR into National UK law meaning thateven post-Brexit, companies and organisations will need to comply with these same EU rules.Please Note that the UK Data Protection Bill is not yet law.

As with the existing data Protection act 1998, the new GDPR legislation will be enforced bythe Information Commissioner's Office (ICO). The ICO has been working to assist and guideCompanies and Organisations like ours regarding the new changes that will come into place.

WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT TO YOU?This new law refers to how your Personal data is recorded, saved & used. Examples of per-sonal data include; your name, home address, telephone number, mobile phone number,email address, bank account details. This relates to all personal data records including manualfiling systems/paper records and electronic records/databases and what we in B&L do with it.Some key areas of change from May 25th include the following:• The requirement to ensure that our B&L members are made aware of this new law and its

requirements.• The requirement for B&L to advise you what we intend to do with your personal data and

how we intend to process it, before we do so.• The requirement for B&L to obtain consent from members for certain activities related to your

data. Example; we now require you to "opt in" for certain items, rather than include/processyour data and then subsequently ask you to "opt out"• The requirement to ensure that you have ease of access to the data that we may hold about

you (a reduced timescale of one month has been stipulated for B&L to provide you withthat information - it's currently 40 days)

• There is now a specific improved & increased list of defined rights for you as an individual.• There is also now a new fines regime.

SOME HELPFUL TERMINOLOGYPersonal Data or Personally Identifiable Information (PII) relates to any living individualwho can be identified from that data, for example your home address, phone numbers, emailetc.

Sensitive Personal Data relates information such as racial or ethnic origin, political opinions,religious beliefs or other beliefs of a similar nature, whether you are a member of a trade union,physical or mental health or condition, sexual life etc. The GDPR legislation covers this type ofdata too, however B&L does not hold or process sensitive personal data.

B&L is known as the "Data Controller" as we determine the purposes for which and themanner in which any personal data are, processed, or are to be, processed.

"Data Processors" are Companies outside B&L who process data on the B&L's behalf. B&Ldo not use external Companies to hold or process sensitive personal data for B&L."Consent" B&L will require you to "opt in" for certain activities, rather than include your personaldata and then subsequently ask you to "opt out". From May 25th, we must now ensure that youhave firstly given consent prior to us including your data in the Directory.

General Data Protection Regulation (”GDPR”)

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Beekeeping Courses at Mantel Farm Limited number of places available

Refreshing your Beekeeping  Sat 28th April:  A One Day Course: 9.30am – 4.30pm £98less 20% discount for B&L MembersFor those who wish to refresh their knowledge of beekeeping:  The beekeeping year and its activities for thosewho have some experience but wish to top of their confidence for the coming season. Aimed at the beekeepers whodesire to improve their performance by picking up additional skills from experienced beekeepers. Tailored especiallyfor ‘fairly new beekeepers’ keen to do the best for their bees at the start of the new season.1.            Managing Honey Bee Colonies A closer look at important inspections to be carried out and howto carry out swarm control. A look at uniting and moving colonies,2.            Bee Health & Diseases Bee diseases, pests and other problems, how to recognise & treat them inan effective way3.            Honey Harvesting A re-cap of the process of honey extraction, handling the harvest and theequipment needed4.            Winter Preparations & Feeding How and when to prepare and protect your colonies for thewinter, including treatments, inspections, feeding and hive protection.

More info can be found on our website:http://mantelfarmshop.co.uk/epages/950003783.sf/en_GB/?ObjectPath=/Shops/950003783/Categories/%22Training%20and%20Events%22/Beekeeping_Courses/Refresher_Beekeeping_CoursesBasic Exam Prep  Sun 29th April: A morning course: 9.30am - 12.30pm £48    less 20%discount for B&L MembersConsidering the Basic Assessment?  This course is a chance to find out more about it, review & revise theessentials prior to taking the BBKA Basic Exam.  Covering the exam format; this course will help to preparethe beekeeper for taking this important assessment in the basic skills and knowledge of the craft.1.            The exam format  Types of questions & practical tasks will be explained. including theinterpretation of the practical assessment, oral questioning in beekeeping and the natural history,swarming and pests and diseases. Discussing the depth of knowledge required.2.           A typical examination Using classroom-based props. there will be a chance to practice and

critique a typical examination, including manipulation and equipment, the practical assessment of thecandidate's ability to handle bees and beekeeping equipment. The ability to interpret what is observed.The oral questions on the knowledge of the Natural History and Beekeeping, swarming, swarm control andeffects, diseases and pests.More info can be found on our website:http://mantelfarmshop.co.uk/epages/950003783.sf/en_GB/?ObjectPath=/Shops/950003783/Categories/%22Training%20and%20Events%22/Beekeeping_Courses/The_Basics_Of_Beekeeping_Evening%5B2%5D

Swarm Control Sun 29th April: An afternoon course:  1.30pm – 4.30pm £48 less20% discount for B&L MembersSwarming is a natural part of the beekeeping year and it is essential to understand the reasons for swarmingand what it means for both the colony and the beekeeper.  This course will focus on why swarming happens,how best to minimise and prevent it and simple methods to control it once started.1.            Reasons for swarming Why does a colony swarm? when is it likely to occur and what is the trigger?Practical help with managing one of beekeeping's most testing but natural annual events. Aimed at those wishing toconduct their beekeeping in a responsible and sustainable manner.2.            Swarm prevention What can you do to prevent a swarm and when should you do it? Key observations includingweather patterns, pollen crops and the bees behaviour both outside and inside the hive. Ensuring enough space,considering types and sizes of hives.3.            Swarm control  Necessary inspections and manipulations. The methods available to control swarming, includingthe theory and practical demonstrations.4.            Taking swarms  How to collect a swarm and what to do with it! The main considerations, the equipmentrequired, risks associated, disease control, insurance requirements, identifying the type of bee and other important stepsand considerations.

More info can be found on our website:http://mantelfarmshop.co.uk/epages/950003783.sf/en_GB/?ObjectPath=/Shops/950003783/Categories/%22Training%20and%20Events%22/Beekeeping_Courses/Beekeeping_Course_Swarm_Control

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Little mining bee which Amanda saykeeps peeping at her then disappearsdown her tunnel whenever Amandamoves

Unidentified solitary bee on a primrose

Photo Corner - All photos by Amanda Millar

Honey bee working the cherry blossom

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Offer of a beekeeping siteWe have the offer of part of an 6 acre garden, on the Open National Gardens Scheme for someone to keep bees.It explained to the owner the necessity of keeping visitors away from the colonies and the need for access atany time and the normal rent of 2 jars per annum per colony. There is a field attached to the property, whichmight be what is offered. The site is in Streat.

Anyone interested should contact Hillary, the B&L Secretary on 07713 532285 or email her atosmans.home@btinternet.com

Neonicotinoids: risks to bees confirmed

Most uses of neonicotinoid pesticides represent a risk to wild bees and honeybees, according to assessmentspublished today by EFSA. The Authority has updated its risk assessments of three neonicotinoids –clothianidin, imidacloprid and thiamethoxam – that are currently subject to restrictions in the EU because ofthe threat they pose to bees.These new conclusions update those published in 2013, after which the European Commission imposedcontrols on use of the substances.For the new assessments, which this time cover wild bees – bumblebees and solitary bees – as well ashoneybees, EFSA’s Pesticides Unit carried out an extensive data collection exercise, including a systematicliterature review, to gather all the scientific evidence published since the previous evaluations.The team also applied the guidance document developed by EFSA specifically for the risk assessment ofpesticides and bees.Jose Tarazona, Head of EFSA’s Pesticides Unit, said: “The availability of such a substantial amount of data aswell as the guidance has enabled us to produce very detailed conclusions.“There is variability in the conclusions, due to factors such as the bee species, the intended use of thepesticide and the route of exposure. Some low risks have been identified, but overall the risk to the three typesof bees we have assessed is confirmed.”EFSA finalised its conclusions following two separate consultations with pesticide experts in the EU MemberStates. The experts have supported the conclusions.As with the previous assessments, exposure of bees to the substances was assessed via three routes: residuesin bee pollen and nectar; dust drift during the sowing/application of the treated seeds; and water consumption.

Next stepsEFSA’s conclusions will be shared with risk managers from the European Commission and Member States,who will consider potential amendments to the current restrictions on the use of these pesticides.Peer review of the pesticide risk assessment for bees for the active substance clothianidin considering the usesas seed treatments and granulesPeer review of the pesticide risk assessment for bees for the active substance imidacloprid considering theuses as seed treatments and granulesPeer review of the pesticide risk assessment for bees for the active substance thiamethoxam considering theuses as seed treatments and granulesEvaluation of the data on clothianidin, imidacloprid and thiamethoxam for the updated risk assessment to beesfor seed treatments and granules in the EU

Q&A: Conclusions on neonicotinoids 2018 (PDF)

European Food Safety Authority efsa, 28th February 2018

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Somewhere to visit in May

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Contributions to your newsletterContributions, including photos, to the newsletter (max 900 words) can be sent, preferably by email, to the editor see panel above for detailsPhotos etc. for the website should be emailed to our webmaster, see panel above.

Outdoor meetings: Meetings are on Saturdays and Sundays. Unless otherwise, stated a1.30pm start for beginners will be followed by a general meeting at 2.30pm. All meetingsadvertised will be weather permitting. Location maps are on the website in the member’s section.

Summer Programme14th April @ Barcombe with Heather McNiven .29th April @ Cooksbridge with Ian White.6th May @ Grassroots with Amanda Millar.12th May @ Barcombe with Heather McNiven.26th May @ Bob Curtis ASpiary3rd June @ Grassroots with Amanda Millar.29th July @ Grassroots with Amanda Millar.Further dates to be confirmed

For your diary8th April - B&L Tuition days in Hurstpierpoint aimed at new beekeepers FULLY BOOKED. The Tuitionday scheduled for 29th April has unfortunately been cancelled due to insufficient numbers.21st April - West Sussex BKA Convention - please see details in newsletterSat 19th May 2018 - Sussex Beekeeper Association Festival of Bees, Heathfield Community College.7th to 9th June - South of England Show @ Ardingly Showground Details at http://www.seas.org.uk30th June - B&L stand at the Saltdean Fayre.4th August - B&L stand at the Rottingdean Fayre.

The Brighton and Lewes Division of the SBKA cannot accept any responsibility for loss, injury or damagesustained by persons in consequence of their participation in activities arranged.

Divisional Diary 2017/8

Officers of the DivisionPresidentLionel ReubenChairmanIan WhiteE: ianda.pinehill@yahoo.co.ukVice-Chairman/Treasurer/Membership SecretaryPat Clowser, 5 Wivelsfield Road, Saltdean, BN2 8FPT: 01273 700404 E: patricia.blbees@hotmail.comSecretaryHilary Osman, Holly Tree Cottage, Norlington Lane,Ringmer, BN8 5SH T: 01273 813045E:secretary@brightonlewesbeekeepers.co.ukMeetings SecretaryMary KingSwarm coordinationIan WhiteWebmasterGerald Legg, E: gerald@chelifer.com

Newsletter editorNorman Dickinson, 34 Abergavenny Rd, Lewes, BN7 1SNT: 07792 296422 E: editor.blbees@outlook.comLibrarianVacantOut-Apiary ManagersAmanda Millar: - “Grassroots”Heather McNiven: - “Knowlands Farm”County RepresentativesBob Curtis, Ian WhiteEducation coordinatorAmanda MillarNational Honey Show RepresentativeNorman DickinsonCommittee MembersLionel Reuben, Ian White, Pat Clowser, Hillary Osman,Norman Dickinson, Sue Taylor, Gerald Legg, HeatherMcNiven, Mary King, Dominic Zambito

Regional Bee Inspector - Sandra Grey, Mobile: 07775 119430, email: sandra.grey@apha.gsi.gov.uk

Seasonal Bee Inspector - Diane Steele, Mobile: 07775 119452, email: diane.steele@apha.gsi.gov.uk