Door County could face serious problems in the future if the current rate of bee depopulation continues. Colony Collapse Disorder, or CCD, occurs when the majority of bees in a colony simply disappear, leaving behind only a queen and enough food to feed the rest of the immature bees in a hive. The cause of CCD is not the result of a single factor but a combination of insecticides and varroa mite infestations, which can spread toxins and viruses throughout a colony. Without pollinators, Door County could suffer heavy losses to many popular crops, particularly cherries, cranberries and apples. Max Martin, a local beekeeper of 20 years who is heavily involved in the Door County Beekeepers Club, said there is a sense of urgency to find a solution.

Martin said that while nothing is certain, and multiple theories are still in the testing stage, he believes that there is light at the end of the tunnel.