Sunday, June 1, 2008

Honey Hitch

Since 2006 farmers across the U.S. have reported the disappearance of honeybees. Scientists, lacking a concrete explanation for this phenomenon (nearly one-third of all honeybee colonies in the country have vanished), have dubbed it Colony Collapse Disorder. Many blame the rampant use of pesticides for the poor health of this crucial species, but the verdict is not out yet.



Honeybees are responsible for pollinating nearly $15 billion (source) worth of crops in the United States alone. Fewer pollinators mean fewer crops (which translates into higher prices for those foods). Read more.

Honey Do List: Until the true cause of Colony Collapse Disorder is known, we can take these simple steps to help the honeybee along. Grow a large variety of native plants in your garden, and avoid using pesticides. Doing this will create a healthy environment for bees (and for your family)!