More people say they're seeing lots of yellow jackets, or wasps, this summer, but one University of Utah professor says he hears that comment every year.

The yellow jacket, naughty, nice or neutral? Yellow jackets have a bad reputation as pests that sting, but they are helpful to us by feeding on aphids, caterpillars and other garden pests.

Avoid leaving food scraps, uncovered food odors, or sugary food spills outdoors, as these attract yellow jackets and increase the risk of stings.

Mixing clove, lemongrass, and geranium essential oils with water will keep yellow jackets from swarming around your yard. The ...