Honey Bees had a tough summer 2012 with droughts in the Mid-West. Colonies have also been hammered by Varroa Mites, which such the blood from bees, weakened their immune system and introduce other diseases to the bee. Already weakened by poor nutrition, many bees have died off.

Some growers are soliciting bees from the south. Beekeepers there are agreeing to help–chasing the carrot of higher rental prices pushing $180 per colony.