The Madera Tribune yesterday reported that an abrupt disappearance of worker bees within the last two weeks, and in some instances overnight, is spreading alarm throughout the California agriculture industry.

“We are going to have a big shortage of bees,” the story quoted Madera beekeeper Lyle Johnson. “It’s worse than four years ago. Growers don’t know it yet, but a few are starting to ask.”

Johnson told reporter Ramona Frances farmers are scrambling for bees.

"Almond prices are going up but if you don’t have the...