Actually more than one contributor, the present writer included, has pointed out in many posts over the years that there are more hives worldwide under management than ever and that economics is the driver colony count.
That same writer has been a strong proponent of standards and metrics for colony strength in pollination, and humbly accepts credit for having had some influence of ensuring their establishment and enforcement by the growers and beekeepers.
When the industry was hit by new pests and low prices due to imports and counterfeits honey and the pollination prices had not compensated there was a decade-long slump, but beekeepers have learned to manage, as they always have and the industry is thriving, but don't tell anyone.
***********************************************
The BEE-L mailing list is powered by L-Soft's renowned
LISTSERV(R) list management software. For more information, go to:
http://www.lsoft.com/LISTSERV-powered.html