In response to a fast-spreading syndrome called colony collapse disorder (CCD) that’s striking honey bees nationwide, scientists at Agricultural Research Service bee laboratories across the country are pooling their expertise. They want to learn what’s causing the disappearance of the honey bees that add about $15 billion a year to the value of U.S. crops by pollinating fruit, vegetable, tree nut and berry crops. Some beekeepers have already lost one-half to two-thirds of their colonies to CCD. Researchers are attempting to improve the longevity of honey bee queens, find effective controls for Nosema protozoa and varroa mites, and reduce migratory colony stress.