For what it's worth, people in the Ag Industry have put together a
color pamphlet defending themselves against accusations pesticides
contribute to CCD.  Some of their key points:

• Irradiation Improves Infected Hives.
Studies have shown that bees can survive successfully in abandoned
hives that have been irradiated to kill biological pathogens.

• High Pathogen Levels.
Studies of bees remaining in collapsed colonies have found high levels
of pathogens.

• No Correlation Between CCD and Insecticide Exposure.
CCD has not been seen in every state, including some states with
intensive use of Bt crops and agricultural pesticides. Furthermore, Bt
crops are not grown in European countries that are experiencing bee
decline.

• Suspension of Pesticides Has Not Stopped Hive Collapse.
Eight years ago France suspended certain uses of two specific
insecticides that were considered prime suspects in bee losses there.
The action has not reversed the French decline, and hive collapse
occurs in regions where those pesticides have never been used.

From "Examining Pesticide Use In the Face Bee Decline."

www.croplifefoundation.org

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