Maybe the methodology of providing habitat has not been developed.  The
industry is stuck with what seems to be the best option rather than make an
actual effort to change.  Is there evidence that native bees don't survive
the winters in sufficient numbers?

Hi there
For sure, habitat is a key variable and I don't think it is easy to create habitats for multiple wild species. I think the main focus of habitat studies is on finding what the best habitats already are and possibly locating farms near them. 

In terms of survival, studies I have seen show wild fluctuations from year to year. While it is true that some species are declining and even approaching extinction, others are increasing in abundance. Many pollinators actually thrive in urban and suburban settings. Also, the idea that agricultural settings are depauperate of beneficial insects is false.

Like we have said, these discussions tend to become polarized following whether the investigator is trying to make a case for pollinator decline, pesticide ills, etc. or conversely -- trying to show how Big Ag is not the root of all evils, exists primarily to fill the demand for low priced food, etc. There also is a push to put an economic value on wild nature. 

Then there are those of us that see that somehow these and other interests must find a way to coexist

PLB

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