Support for the Provincial Rat Eradication Program (PREP)
Res #: 4-18M
Number: 4
Year: 2018
Midterm: Yes
Expired: No
Responses Received: Yes
Departments: Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture
WHEREAS rats present an ever-growing danger of affecting the quality and sale of grains and thereby affecting the sale and livelihood of our grain farmers;
WHEREAS the presence of rats can adversely affect the health and wellbeing of anyone who comes in contact;
WHEREAS the present rat control program has reduced the number of rats dramatically and indicated that the right direction has been taken to eradicate the rat population;
WHEREAS it is a well-known fact that, if left unattended or efforts are reduced, the rat population can, and will, in a very short time be back to original numbers and more;
BE IT RESOLVED that the Ministry of Agriculture return the Provincial Rat Eradication Program back to its original status and funding to ensure that the program continues to produce positive results.
Responses From: Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture
September 26, 2022
Rat control is a priority for the Government of Saskatchewan. The Rat Control Program (RCP) is a mature and stable program. Inspections over the last few years show that control efforts have been effective, and the rat population in the province is low and stable. The Ministry of Agriculture has been working with SARM to ensure that pests, including rats, are effectively controlled in the province. SARM administers the Canadian Agricultural Partnership – Rat Control Program on behalf of the province.
The RCP provides a cost-shared payment to RMs and First Nation Bands that are active in their rat control efforts. The program includes rebates for the purchase of bait, applicator expenses, and other expenses, including mileage for farm visits from Pest Control Officers. Additionally, the brown or Norway rat is a declared pest under The Pest Control Act.
The new agricultural policy framework is underway. Like the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, the program will be a five-year, multi-million-dollar investment by federal and provincial governments into strategic initiatives for Saskatchewan agriculture.
The Honourable David Marit – Minister of Agriculture, Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture