On Jun 12, 2013, at 11:39 AM, Wayne Tyson wrote: > I'd especially like well-informed comments on this article: > http://www.nationofchange.org/worldwide-honey-bee-collapse-lesson-ecology-1371046688
The pesticide industry provides balanced information on the honey bee health issue. For example, in their Fact Sheet, Bayer Crop-Science makes these two key points: http://beecare.bayer.com/media-center/fact-sheet 1) "Despite ongoing reports on substantial bee losses in some regions, the overall number of honey bee colonies worldwide has increased by some 45% over the last 50 years, not decreased." 2) "It is widely believed among the scientific community that Varroa mite is the main factor affecting the health of honey bee colonies." Both Bayer and Monsanto are actively working on Varroa mite control solutions. Monsanto Research: Beekeepers, Monsanto come together for summit Jun 13, 2013 http://www.arcamax.com/business/businessnews/s-1341265?source=outbrain Excerpt: "The company is working on a new technology intended to control a tiny insect, called the varroa mite, that has been a major factor in the decimation of honey bees. If Monsanto successfully brings the technology to market, it could be a blockbuster." Bayer Crop-Science Research: A new way of protecting bees against varroa mites http://beecare.bayer.com/media-center/news/news-detail/a-new-way-of-protecting-bees-against-varroa-mites Excerpt: "In the past, efforts to control this parasite have concentrated exclusively on treatment in the hive, but foraging bees then bring back new mites when they return home. Bayer’s scientists have been working with bee researchers from Frankfurt University to develop the varroa gate, which is designed to prevent reinfection. This innovative front door should effectively protect the hive against the deadly parasite." Paul Cherubini El Dorado, Calif.
