Alarming rate of bee deaths threatens summer picnics

San Diego – Strawberries, watermelon, and juicy tomatoes are among the summer picnic staples at risk if bee colonies continue to collapse at unprecedented rates. Environment California gathered with local bee farmers and the public to discuss the importance of saving the bees on June 23.

Bees pollinate most of the world’s most common crops, including seasonal favorites such as peaches, asparagus, and cherries. But the US is losing about a third of its bee colonies each year, alarming beekeepers, farmers and chefs along with environmental advocates.

On June 23, Environment California staged a p...