Understanding beekeeper decision making in the management of Varroa destructor

Varroa destructor is an ectoparasite of honey bees (Apis mellifera) that deteriorates colony health by feeding on immature bees and vectoring a suite of harmful viruses. Beekeepers often cite V. destructor as their primary challenge in managing honey bee colonies, and V. destructor management is often the main topic of beekeeping education and extension. However, there is a gap in knowledge surrounding how beekeepers choose to monitor and manage V. destructor in their colonies, and what factors contribute to the methods used in V. destructor monitoring and management. The objective of this survey is to better understand the decision-making processes of beekeepers in their monitoring and management of Varroa destructor. The digital survey is anonymously conducted through the Qualtrics platform. The survey consists of up to 28 questions, and the specific questions shown to participants vary based on participant input to give each participant the most relevant questions possible. On average, the study takes less than seven minutes to complete and is open to beekeepers anywhere in the United States. The survey includes questions about how and when beekeepers monitor their V. destructor populations, the influential factors in choosing a V. destructor treatment method, and if beekeepers rotate their V. destructor treatments. This information will be invaluable in formulating extension materials and initiating Varroa destructor research that is relevant and practical for beekeepers.