Gopher challenges prompting calls for reinstatement of strychnine

Alberta lost its emergency registration of strychnine in 2021, with a total phase out as of March 2023. Farmers across Alberta have reported growing challenges combating gopher (Richardson ground squirrel) populations.

Alberta Agriculture Minister and Premier wrote a joint letter asking for reinstatement. Also, MP John Barlow, Shadow Minister for Agriculture and Food Security has called on the federal government to make the pesticide available on an emergency basis by provinces that request it.

Alberta Grains, having heard concerns from farmers has joined a national working group toward developing short- and longer-term solutions and advocacy positions.  

One of the major complaints from farmers is that current alternatives are just not as effective or efficient in managing populations at the early stages of infestation. Having the product available in emergency situations can avoid major economic losses for farmers.

Alberta Agriculture Service Boards are conducting a 2025 Gopher Impact Survey in support of advocacy.