In a message dated 23/01/2010 12:55:33 GMT Standard Time,  
[log in to unmask] writes:

It could  also offer to help the growers improve their environmental   
credentials.  People who help bees tend to get a good press,  and  
vice-versa.  
Improving 'husbandry' by (doh) paying  attention to genetics  seems to be 
set to 
be the next great thing in  beekeeping. It fits right in  with the growing 
sense that we should  work harder to protect the  environment and maintain 
the  
irreplaceable biodiversity.  Lots of  businesses could benefit  hugely from 
being seen to contribute to the  effort, and the big  growers are very well 
positioned.



If they had any thought for their 'environmental credentials' they would  
cease growing almonds as if hydroponically in raked and weed-free gravel, and 
,  through improved 'husbandry', allow/encourage natural flora (and maybe a 
 secondary crop such as lavender) to flourish.  In time this would provide 
a  stratum of moisture-retaining topsoil reducing irrigation costs.  They  
could then keep their own bees for pollination, reducing the need for 
shifting  bees around the country in large quantities and at great stress.
 
Chris

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