Disappearing bees sting US agriculture

Scientists are trying to solve a mystery critical to the future of American agriculture: Why are honeybee hives failing at an alarming rate?

Some researchers are studying whether pesticides and other chemicals used in fields and gardens might affect honeybees, as well as bumblebees and other insects that pollinate crops. Other research is focusing on building more habitat - planting trees, shrubs and flowers that pollinators prefer.

Bees are vital to US agriculture because they pollinate many flowering crops, including almonds, apples and blueberries.