The RM of Wilton is preparing to reintroduce a strychnine program after federal regulators approved emergency use of the pesticide across parts of Saskatchewan and Alberta.
The approval follows a joint request from both provinces, allowing controlled use of two per cent liquid strychnine to manage Richardson’s ground squirrels, commonly known as gophers.
The move comes after producers raised ongoing concerns about increasing crop and pasture damage, particularly since the product was pulled from regular use.
Strychnine was removed from regular use in 2023 after federal regulators determined it posed too great a risk to wildlife, particularly predators that can be poisoned after feeding on treated gophers.
The new authorization comes through an Emergency Use Registration, which allows limited, temporary use under strict conditions. The approval includes measures such as restricted geographic areas, mandatory training, increased monitoring, and requirements for carcass collection and disposal to reduce risks to other wildlife.
“Saskatchewan producers have been clear about the challenges they face in managing gophers with the limited tools currently available,” Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister David Marit said.
“We are pleased to see the emergency use request granted as a practical opportunity for producers to demonstrate how strychnine can help protect their crops and pastures from continued damage.”
The federal authorization allows the product to be used in Saskatchewan and Alberta until November 2027, provided all conditions are met.
The RM of Wilton says its local program will be subject to availability and regulatory requirements, with strict controls expected for anyone participating. Permits, tracking and application paperwork may be required for both the municipality and landowners.
Agricultural groups say the approval provides a needed tool after years of rising gopher populations and limited control options.
“Farmers have been clear that losing strychnine has caused extreme losses on our farms,” SaskBarley chair Cody Glenn said.
“This revised approval shows we can use strychnine safely while still protecting wildlife.”
While only certain crop districts are currently eligible under the federal program, municipalities like Wilton are now preparing to roll out local programs where permitted, with more details expected as implementation guidelines are finalized.
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