Insects in bunkers

Recently, there has been some concern regarding the bees that are in many bunkers. These insects appear every year and they are harmless.

The bees that can be seen in the bunkers are actually a type of sand wasp in the Bembix genus with many different species that may be seen. They burrow in the sand to make their nest, which makes the bunkers ideal. They eat flies, mosquitoes, and other small insects. They are not communal wasps like other species.

The species that occurs in the bunkers every year is particularly non-aggressive. Though research online says that in the most extreme examples, they can sting, it takes great effort to get them to that point. The Grounds staff maintains bunkers regularly and we have never had an employee stung, despite standing in many bunkers for 10–15 minute stretches.

A photo of several Grounds staff
working in a bunker with no issue

While the wasps can be annoying, no control measures are warranted. In speaking with a pest control company, there are insecticides that can be used, but it would require spreading a dust across every bunker in which the wasps are present. Not only is this not a sound pest management practice, but any wasps that were missed would shift to another bunker. Even if every bunker on the property was treated, some wasps would likely be missed, and many beneficial insects would be killed in the process. Ignoring the wasps is the best strategy since they pose no threat.

If the wasps are left alone, they will leave us alone too. No further control measures are necessary or warranted.

 

Etiquette Reminder of the Month

Please remember to remove any bunker sand that may be stuck to your spikes before walking on the greens.

Also, as part of a Golf Committee initiative to improve course etiquette, we have included links to videos teaching proper on course etiquette. Please take a moment to watch:

Ball Marks - How to properly repair

 

See you on the course!

Joe

jvillegas@bwrc.org