Beekeeping, like many agricultural businesses, has been beset by rising costs and lower commodity prices.

But beekeepers face the additional challenge of battling two parasitic mites that are killing honeybees across the country. An estimated 50 percent to 70 percent of beehives nationwide had to be replaced this spring because of the mites’ destruction. The situation raises concerns for the whole agricultural industry because of the important role bees play in pollinating crops.

Read more in Sunday’s business section.