California’s almond bloom requires truckloads of bees to help pollinate around 1 million acres of trees. However, when keepers went to prepare the shipments, they got a devastating surprise.
“So as the beekeepers are starting to look, they open up the colonies, and this year they found a lot lower survival than they expected. In addition to that, the colonies that were surviving were small and dwindling, and it was not at all what they predicted,” said Danielle Downey.
Downey runs a group called Project Apis M, or “PAM.” She says they immediately began to investigate what went wrong.
“They called scientists, and right now they’re looking for viruses. They’ve sent the wax and pollen off for pesticide analysis. So all of that’s underway. And PAm’s role was to gather information from the industry from beekeepers.”
Commercial bee colonies lost around 60 percent of their populations between last June and this month. Officials say that number is well above historical averages and they still do not know what caused the kill off.
A new study by the National Grains and Feeds Association found that their industry generates $401.7 billion in economic output and supports over 1.16 million jobs nationwide.
September 24, 2025 02:41 PM
·
National Education Center for Ag Safety Director Dan Neenan joins us to discuss grain bin safety and the steps producers can take to prevent tragedies.
September 24, 2025 02:19 PM
·
As National Advisor, Carson will counsel both President Trump and Secretary Rollins on nutrition, healthcare access in rural areas, and housing. He will also serve as a key member of the MAHA Commission.
September 24, 2025 02:08 PM
·
Farmers should anticipate continued upward pressure on farm labor costs and monitor policy changes that may further impact hiring decisions.
September 24, 2025 01:01 PM
·
Cotton farmers should weigh potential PLC payments against STAX coverage and act before the September 30 deadline.
September 24, 2025 12:57 PM
·
What is it like working cattle with an outbreak of New World Screwworm so close to home? Wayne Cockrell, with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, joined us on Wednesday to discuss.
September 24, 2025 12:29 PM
·
