http://news.msn.com/us/california-dr...honey-supplies


Last third of article:

By TERENCE CHEA of Associated Press

....Many California beekeepers, including Gene Brandi's brother, are taking
their hives to states such as North Dakota where they can forage in
clover and buckwheat fields.

The drought is hurting businesses such as Marshall's Farm Honey, which
supplies raw honey to high-end restaurants, grocery stores and farmers
markets in Northern California.

The Napa Valley business is having trouble making and buying enough
honey to meet the demands of its customers. Many varieties such as
honey made from sage and star-thistle aren't available at all because
it's too dry for their flowers to produce nectar.

"They keep coming back wanting more, and it's very painful to have to
say, 'We don't have it,'" said Helene Marshall, who runs the business
with her husband Spencer. "There's increased demand because of
increased awareness of how good it is for you, and there is less supply."

Spencer Marshall, who maintains hives throughout the San Francisco
Bay Area, said this is by far the worst year for honey production
he's seen in five decades of beekeeping. When the drought ends, "the
bees may come back, but the beekeepers may not," Marshall said.

Amelia Barad-Humphries, who owns a restaurant and floral business
in Napa Valley, said she's concerned about the drought's impact on
bees and honey supplies. She said she eats a teaspoon of local honey
every day to keep her allergies in check and she relies on bees to
pollinate her backyard garden.

"We need honeybees for everything," she said. "People should be
paying attention."

(end)


Lenona.