The Collapse of Bees Is the Collapse of Our Food System.

USDA scientists have linked the worst U.S. honeybee die-off on record—a staggering ~60% colony loss—to pesticide-resistant Varroa mites spreading deadly viruses, notably deformed-wing viral strains A & B, and acute bee paralysis virus. Mites resistant to the last line pesticide, amitraz, failed to stop the viral spread—signaling a massive warning for bee health and ecosystems.

Honeybees are vital pollinators for over 100 commercial crops—fruits, vegetables, nuts—and increasingly, wild pollinators are also dying as stressors like pesticides, habitat loss, and climate change compound the threat. The mites not only weaken hives directly, but undercut the bees’ resilience against viruses—creating a toxic cascade.

What you can do locally:

• Plant bee-friendly gardens with native flowers (e.g., clover, pollinator patches).

• Avoid neonicotinoid pesticides that harm bees.

• Support local beekeepers using Integrated Pest Management instead of amitraz.

• Install clean bee baths (shallow water with pebbles) for hydration.

• Advocate for diverse habitats—hedgerows, wild meadows, orchards—at community and policy levels.

Even small choices—like picking organic produce, creating pollinator gardens, or backing pesticide bans—help sustain bee populations and secure your dinner plate. The buzz starts at home.