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Getting rid of wasps or hornets in compost pile and under wooden deck #840990

Asked July 16, 2023, 9:46 PM EDT

We have two problems with wasps or hornets. We have a wooden decks and my grandkids play on it. Wasps are present. I don’t want the kids stung. Also I have a compost pile and I was sting by some They seem to have a nest there. What can I do with both situations ? Thank you in advance

Macomb County Michigan

Expert Response

The first step is to identify the location of the nests and what type of wasps they are. Social wasps and hornets can be aggressive when defending their nests. If the nest is in a location where there is high likelihood of people being stung, it might be necessary to kill the wasps and remove the nest. However, if it is possible to avoid the area where the nest is, then this might be a good solution. The nests only have a one-year lifespan; the wasps will die this winter and they will not reuse the same nest next year. If the nest is out in the open, for example under the deck railing or under the deck attached to support beams, then it might be European Paper Wasps (Polistes dominulus). If the nest is under the soil surface or the inside of the compost pile, then it is most likely a type of Yellowjacket Wasp (Vespula spp.) The type of nest and its location will determine the best way to remove it. 
You can read more in these articles from MSU Extension:
How to Identify Wasp Nests: https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/bee-wasp-or-hornet-nest-which-one-is-it
Yellowjackets: https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/yellowjackets?language_id=
European Paper Wasp: https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/european-paper-wasp?language_id=
An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 24, 2023, 10:16 AM EDT
Thanks for responding. I think I will try the ortho dust.
I generally do not like using pesticides because I have a butterfly garden..
This is quite close to our pool and the grandkids come over.
I do not want them to get stung.
Sincerely,
Linda 

On Mon, Jul 24, 2023 at 10:16 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied July 24, 2023, 11:03 AM EDT
Hi Linda,
I just noticed your question had your last name in it. Please, in future, don’t include any personally identifiable information for your own privacy- last name, addres,, email or phone number. 
I removed your surname in the question.
Thank you!
Laura S
Ask Extension adminstrator

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