Sand Wasps Close Parts of Mpls. Parks

Three Minneapolis parks are dealing with closures. The "tot lots," or playgrounds for small children, are closed at Fuller, Todd, and Sibley parks in Minneapolis because of a lot of pestering insects.

An entomologist with the University of Minnesota Extension says these sand wasps dig individual nests in the sand. There are often a lot in one area, but they do not form colonies. Jeff Hahn also says they rarely, if ever, sting anyone and leave people alone.

Regardless the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board has gotten complaints from parents worried about the wasps. So they have closed down certain areas where they are prevalent.

They are trying to treat the sand by digging up the nests and using a treatment that involves rosemary and mint. However, so far nothing worked well. 

They don't want to use insecticides since this is an area where children play.

They will reopen the areas once they get rid of the insects.

There have also been sand wasps spotted in the North Calhoun tot lot and the Lyndale Hills tot lot, but the Park Board says there are fewer of them so the tot lots are still open.

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