Adoption of Russian Varroa-Resistant Honey Bees among United States Beekeepers

Factors influencing the adoption and adoption intensity of Russian Varroa-Resistant honey bees were assessed using a double hurdle model. Farm size does not significantly influence the adoption decision, but negatively influences adoption intensity once adopted. Commercial beekeepers are the greater adopters of the Russian Varroa-Resistant bees, though they use them in smaller proportions once adopted. Farms specialized in beekeeping are less likely to adopt and high household income negatively influences adoption. Having a greater number of contacts with USDA increases the proportions of Russian bees kept by adopters. Membership with a beekeeping association positively affects adoption. Finally, beekeepers’ perceptions of new technology affect the adoption decision and intensity of adoption.