In a message dated 9/11/00 10:39:52 AM Eastern Daylight Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:

<< 2.  If they are too far from the folks in 1 above I tell them how to use
detergent solution to kill the nests if that is an option - it works well on
nests in the ground but of course is not to be used on those in a building
because of the fairly large volume of water required.  Usually adivse to try
a bucket of detergent water to flood the nest.  A 1% - 2% solution is fatal
to insects but must contact the insects to work and may have lower
environmental effects that pesticides ( wasp and hornet killers are usually
formulated for quick knockdown and very low toxicity to humans) or if they
are reluctant to use pesticides it gives them an alternative. >>

    I appreciate that, Blane.  I have been telling folks about this for
several years, as opposed to the more common suggestion of gasoline.  I even
know of one case where an extension agent was recommending gasoline.

    Even with pesticides we should have some concerns. I am not against
pesticides, but we use them far more than we should and in many situations
where they are not necessary.   The application of a dilute pesticide on
plant tissue, where air, sunlight and dew can break it down, is a whole lot
different from adding a concentrated pesticide directly to the soil, where
the tendency is to move downward into water supplies.  Some of the termite
pesticides have been banned for this very reason.

    So I generally challenge those who say to fill the yellow jacket hole
with Sevin, etc.


Dave Green    SC   USA
"Haaalp, I've been stung by a "bee!"       http://pollinator.com/stung.htm