Very few bees will be a problem for you since all bees die when they loose their stinger, know that, and will only sting if their life is threatened. However, there is a wasp species, Yellow Jackets, that many people confuse with bees that are very aggresive, do not loose their stingers so they can sting multiple times, and also release a pheromone that calls others to help attack this intruder.

Here is a link that might be useful: Yellow Jackets

I've seen honey bees completely cover a small ornamental pond during a hot, dry spell. They fill up my bird bath on a daily basis, making it a bit of a challenge for birds to drink and bathe, and for me to clean and fill the basin. Splashing and playing children would certainly seem like a 'threat' to them, unfortunately.

I wish I had some helpful advice, but I don't. You might try the 'Bees and Beekeeping' forum. See what they have to suggest.

Here is a link that might be useful: Here, I'll take you to the Bee Forum!

delynn319, you might try smoke beforehand. Perhaps the grill might be an effective IPM tool.

Have you tried The Original Waspinator? great and works really well!

I don't know if this would work since you're already supplying a great source of water. You might try a birdbath and float some straw in it so they can drink without falling in and drowning.

There is obviously a hive somewhere in the area, which needs to be removed. Attempting to kill individual bees is futile obviously. The problem must be removed at the source. BUT, if you can help it, don't just destroy the hive and exterminate the bees. We are in the middle of a bee shortage crisis around the world (read about it if you haven't already). Do a live bee removal, which only certain companies like that one actually do, so the bees can then be transported to a bee keeper and use to pollinate crops and what not.