Saskatchewan landowners have spent the last year struggling to combat the growing population of Richardson’s Ground Squirrels (“gophers”) after the federal ban on strychnine in March of 2024. Strychnine is a crucial tool used by farmers to control growing gopher populations in rural municipalities (RMs).
Many areas in the province have widespread damage from RGS infestations in crops and pasturelands, and now farmers are left vulnerable, with another season approaching, without an effective tool like strychnine. RGSs are notorious for disturbing crops and burrowing holes that injure livestock, ultimately having a negative effect on agricultural productivity. The financial consequences of overpopulated RGS populations, compounded by rising operational costs and an unpredictable economic climate, pose a significant threat to rural livelihoods. These financial consequences are not only affecting producers but also crop insurance programs through increased payouts for damage caused year after year.
SARM continues to receive resolutions from its membership, advocating for the reinstatement of strychnine to manage the growing RGS problem. The federal government’s decision to impose a three-year phase-out period leading to the complete ban of strychnine has exacerbated frustrations in rural Saskatchewan. Alternative pest control methods remain ineffective or too costly for farmers, and this decision has not adequately addressed the unique agricultural needs of our province.
“It has been a year since the ban came into full effect and our farmers are struggling to find a practical and effective method to control the Richarson’s ground squirrel populations. SARM is asking the provincial government to use The Saskatchewan First Act to reintroduce the use of strychnine specifically for gopher control,” says Bill Huber, SARM President.
Strychnine baiting, when applied according to label instructions and integrated pest management practices, is an effective and low-risk method for controlling RGS, and the non-target risk is low. Reinstating its use, alongside robust education and compliance programs, could provide a valuable tool for rural municipalities in managing this persistent agricultural pest.
“Richardson’s ground squirrels are native to the prairies and consume a variety of plant species, nuts, grains, seeds, and insects. Although RGS burrowing can have positive effects on nutrient cycling and plant species diversity, and they are important prey to many birds and animals, large populations can be very damaging to crop, forage, and livestock production. RGS has historically been one of Western Canada’s most damaging agricultural pests. To counter effects of damaging RGS populations, the Gopher Control Program administered by SARM and funded under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership between the federal and provincial governments was initiated. This program includes rebates for gopher control products and non-chemical control methods like raptor platforms,” says Dr. James Tansey, PhD Provincial Specialist, Insect/Pest Management, Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture.
SARM urges the provincial government to utilize the powers of The Saskatchewan First Act to reinstate the use of strychnine for controlling gophers. The Act provides an opportunity for the province to assert jurisdiction over pest control measures that directly affect our agricultural sector. This reintroduction could be regulated under provincial oversight to ensure responsible use while addressing the pressing needs of farmers across Saskatchewan.
Further information on this topic will be presented at the SARM Annual Convention at 3pm on Tuesday, March 11.
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For interview requests please contact:
Amy Roettger, Manager, Strategic Communications, SARM
aroettger@sarm.ca or 306-761-3730
Rustie Dean, Media Liaison, SARM
rustie.dean@gmail.com
Background: SARM is the independent association representing rural municipalities in Saskatchewan, serving as the primary advocate for its members before senior governments.
Since 1905, SARM has been working to address the concerns of rural municipalities and ensure that their voices are heard by senior levels of government. We provide support to our members in dealing with the provincial and federal governments. We advocate on behalf of our members and help ensure their compliance with legislation and regulations.
SARM also has been mandated and plays an important role in the advocacy of Saskatchewan’s agricultural sector. SARM believes that Agriculture is more than just an industry — it is the very foundation of our rural communities.
In compliance with the Act of Incorporation, SARM directly and lawfully engages in activities that tend to advance the interests of agriculture, including the handling, transportation, processing, and marketing of grain and grain products. Furthermore, the Act instructs that SARM be an actively engaged participant and member of the Canada Grains Council, as well as other organizations, associations, councils, congresses, and bodies advancing the interests of those who produce agricultural products.
SARM invites provincial news agencies to join us at convention as representatives from rural Saskatchewan municipalities converge to discuss and debate timely topics, elect officials, and hear the critical issues of Saskatchewan’s rural members. For more information on the convention (including an agenda and registration link), visit sarm.ca/events/annual-convention-and-trade-show/.
