Managed honeybee colonies fell by over 50 per cent between 1985 and 2005 according to a study carried out by the University of Reading
A plan to safeguard endangered pollinator populations has been proposed by the Welsh Government.
Environment Minister John Griffiths produced the Action Plan for Pollinators in Wales as honeybees and hoverflies become increasingly threatened. For 30 years the varroa mite has spread diseases destroying colonies.
20 per cent of crops are pollinator dependent with a value to the UK economy of £430m annually, according to the Plan.
A workshop last week discussed what needs to be achieved. It hopes to make Wales more ‘pollinator friendly’ and work closely with beekeeping associations.
Griffiths said, “Their views and expertise will be crucial in helping to shape this Action Plan which is the first of its kind in the UK.” The Action Plan will be launched in early 2013.