In Episode 122 of the Bees with Ben podcast, host Ben chats with the experienced commercial beekeeper Kevin Simons from Edgecomb Honey, nestled in the scenic North Island Bay of Plenty in Whakatane, New Zealand. Kevin has been a part of the beekeeping industry since 1984, witnessing firsthand the dramatic shifts in the landscape of apiculture, particularly with the advent of varroa mites. This episode delves into his enduring passion for beekeeping, the early days free from varroa, and his current relentless fight against this devastating pest.

Kevin's journey into the world of bees began in 1984, sparked by a fascination with the natural world and the intricate society bees form within their hives. He recalls the simpler times in beekeeping when the absence of varroa mites meant fewer threats to hive health and a stronger focus on honey production and natural hive growth. These were the days when beekeepers could rely more on the resilience of their bees and less on intervention to maintain healthy colonies. However, the tranquility of beekeeping shifted dramatically with the arrival of varroa mites in New Zealand. Kevin describes the initial shock and rapid adaptation needed as beekeepers nationwide faced significant losses and battled to understand and manage this new enemy. For Kevin, it was a pivot from natural beekeeping methods to developing a more aggressive and vigilant approach to hive management.

Today, with over a thousand hives under his care, Kevin's beekeeping routine involves an extensive and meticulously planned program to combat the varroa mite. He shares some of his strategies on the podcast, including regular monitoring, the use of chemical treatments, and natural control techniques that together form an integrated pest management system. His goal is not just to keep the mites at bay but to ensure his bees thrive despite their presence.

Looking toward the future, Kevin is cautiously optimistic. He acknowledges the ongoing challenges posed by varroa mites but also highlights the resilience of beekeepers and the innovations in the field that continue to evolve. His story is a testament to the dedication and resilience required in modern beekeeping, emphasizing that the battle against pests like varroa is ongoing but not insurmountable.