SARM calls for the reintroduction of strychnine to control richardson's ground squirrels

- Media Release, SARM

February 26, 2025

key points from this story:

• Strychnine ban in March 2024 impacts gopher control
• Widespread crop and pasture damage from gophers
• SARM advocates for strychnine reinstatement
• Financial consequences affect producers and insurance programs
• Saskatchewan First Act proposed for reintroduction
• SARM convention to discuss topic on March 11

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.