Richardson's ground squirrel control: Strychnine access and stewardship guidelines

Shannon Sereda | Director, Government Relations, Policy & Markets

After several years without access to one of the most effective tools for controlling Richardson’s ground squirrels, Alberta farmers will soon be able to obtain two per cent liquid strychnine under a federal Emergency Use Registration.

While the return of strychnine is welcome news for many farmers dealing with severe infestations, access comes with strict conditions designed to protect wildlife and species at risk, while ensuring responsible use.

The Emergency Use Registration remains in effect until Nov. 1, 2027, providing producers with another option as part of an integrated pest management approach for controlling Richardson’s ground squirrels.

As producers know, Richardson’s ground squirrels are more than a nuisance. Large infestations can significantly reduce crop yields, damage hay and pasture, create hazards for livestock through extensive burrowing and increase wear on farm equipment. They are also known to chew through irrigation lines, electrical wiring and cables.

Since the federal registration for two per cent liquid strychnine was cancelled in 2020, producers have repeatedly identified the loss of this tool as a major challenge.

Following extensive advocacy and collaboration between industry and governments in Alberta and Saskatchewan, both provinces have secured an Emergency Use Registration that restores temporary access in regions most affected by infestations. The registration also introduces a comprehensive stewardship program intended to reduce risks to wildlife and species at risk.

Unlike previous years, producers cannot simply purchase strychnine when they need it. Several requirements must be completed before municipalities or counties, which are responsible for distribution, can sell the product.

Before purchasing, producers must:

  • complete mandatory online applicator training offered through the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities;
  • prepare an integrated pest management and monitoring plan identifying areas with significant Richardson’s ground squirrel infestations;
  • sign a declaration confirming they will comply with all label requirements and stewardship conditions; and
  • purchase the product through their designated home municipality within the approved Emergency Use Registration area.

Purchases are limited to two cases at one time. Each case contains 12 bottles of 250 millilitres. 

The Government of Alberta has confirmed a limited supply is now available at select municipalities following the importation of the active ingredient and Canadian manufacturing of the finished product. Producers should contact their local municipality or agricultural service board for local availability and purchasing procedures.

There are two permitted application periods intended to maximize effectiveness and reduce risks: March 1 to June 15, before vegetation emerges, and July 15 to Sept. 1, after vegetation has dried down.

Spring is the preferred application period because bait is more attractive before green vegetation becomes available. More supply is expected to become available for the summer and fall application window.

The Emergency Use Registration places significant emphasis on stewardship. Producers are expected to use strychnine as one tool within an integrated pest management program, rather than as a first option.

Requirements include:

  • posting signs at all treated sites;
  • placing bait only inside active Richardson’s ground squirrel burrows and covering the burrow after treatment;
  • monitoring treated fields for seven days;
  • collecting and properly disposing of carcasses to reduce risks to scavenging wildlife; and
  • disposing of unused bait and containers according to label requirements.

Successful compliance with label directions and stewardship requirements could support continued access beyond November 2027 and help producers avoid provincial or federal penalties.

A key component of Alberta’s stewardship program is protecting species at risk. Municipal staff will work with producers during the purchasing process to identify whether sensitive wildlife species occur in their area.

The Government of Alberta has developed species-at-risk mapping for municipalities within the Emergency Use Registration area, recognizing that wildlife considerations vary across the province.

Dowload the Map of approved emergency use request (EUR) focus areas for 2026.

As municipalities begin receiving product, Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation will continue providing updates on availability, stewardship requirements and producer resources through its website and social media channels. Producers are encouraged to monitor Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation and Alberta Grains channels for updates, and to contact their local municipality or agricultural service board before planning purchases.

For more information, visit alberta.ca/richardsons-ground-squirrel-control.

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