Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) affects not only our nation's beekeepers and growers, but also everyday consumers. With hive prices reaching an all-time high this year, growers are struggling to pollinate their blossoms. That means less food grown, at higher prices.
Normally, annual bee loss is 15%. Since 2006, the average rate has increased to 30%, with some experts saying that this year bee die-off could reach 40-50%.
Without knowing the cause of this disorder, we may continue to lose bees at this alarming rate. In 2007, the Pollinator Protection Act (HR 1709) was introduced in Congress. It would have provided for millions of dollars of research into CCD, but was never enacted.
Mr. President, revive this bill or take independent action, but our nation's honeybees need a solution.