Using O.A. is not a "gung ho" approach but rather a sensible precaution.
Oh dear. Not reading the post - again! Trying to misquote me again.
I said very specifically quote: 'Alright for those 'gung-ho' with oxalic acid treatments umpteen times a year.' unquote.
I gave a perfectly adequate, and likely as efficient, non chemical alternative AND gave my reasons for it - yes I justified my alternative.
Sorree, but offering a sound alternative is confusing a beginner? I think not, if they have at least a modicum of beekeeping understanding. Please don't judge all by your level of understanding.
Perhaps, if you actually read p27 of the DEFRA 'managing Varroa booklet you might just come cross the second bulleted point regarding using methods which 'can replace the need for varroacides', or even p28 where there is a superb table on IPM methods where specifically comb trapping is clearly advised for the months of April to July.
The OP already monitors for varroa so they are at least half way to being able to control varroa without resorting to chemical means, at the drop of a hat. I might suggest that you are trying to exaggerate the problem from a simple 'on-going control' into an 'instant potential death of the colony' threat, which it is most certainly not. Varroa is not 'scary'; it has been researched over many years and infestation is easily kept under control. Regular routine practise is what is needed, nothing scary at all.
Your last para: even 'most of not a lot' will leave very few varroa for the period until the next assessmen, I am sure. Even oxalic acid is not 100% effective either, do you know?
