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Legislation providing more money for research into bee health

Apple moth infestation stays confined

They've set more than 32,000 traps throughout California, looking for new populations of light brown apple moth … and authorities say the pest remains confined to the original nine counties, so far. Moths continue to turn up in insect traps in Monterey and Santa Cruz counties this week, according to the California Department of Food and Agriculture. Experts recommended treatments for the moth in parts of Contra Costa and Napa counties, and those treatments have been completed.

Japanese beetle find leads to treatments

Discovery of a Japanese beetle will lead to an eradication program in San Diego County. Crews trapped a Japanese beetle in an urban area of Vista. State pest fighters say treatments to eradicate the pest will begin next month and continue through August, with follow-up work next spring. The Japanese beetle attacks a wide variety of plants and crops. It infests 22 states east of the Mississippi River but authorities want to keep it out of California.

Bill would boost research into bee health

Worries about reduced bee populations have been accompanied in farm circles by concerns about a dwindling number of bee researchers. Government funding for research into bee health has declined in past years. But legislation introduced in the U.S. Senate this week aims to change that. Called the Pollinator Protection Act, the bill has won support from farm groups. It would set aside $89 million for research and grants to find solutions to problems affecting bees.

Walnut farmers, marketers await crop estimate

Walnut growers are scratching their heads as they assess their crops. Some farmers report a good set, while others say something happened at bloom time so their orchards won't yield as many nuts. A government report next month will provide a first look at the potential statewide walnut crop. Meantime, farmers are nurturing the crops they have. Demand for walnuts continues to increase, so marketers say they won't have problems selling whatever is produced.

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