8 hours ago
Bees are in trouble – and the federal lab researching them could close
LAUREL, Maryland — Sam Droege, sporting worn hiking boots and blue jeans, walked through a lush field of tall grass and poison ivy — a typical commute to the government lab he has run for more than 23 years.
The wildlife biologist paused between the two cream-colored sheds that house one of the country's largest bee collections. His floral shirt billowed in the breeze as he pointed out different plants. 'Bastard toadflax,' Droege chuckled. 'Great name.' The meadow was awash with sunlight and birdsong. Butterflies and bees flitted from bud to bud, digging their furry faces into dusty pollen.
