Home / Environment / Gopher Poison Arrives Late: Farmers Miss Spring Window
Gopher Poison Arrives Late: Farmers Miss Spring Window
15 Jul
Summary
- Strychnine for gophers is available in Alberta and Saskatchewan until September 1.
- Supply chain issues prevented spring application of the controversial rodenticide.
- Environmental risks and late timing raise concerns about strychnine's effectiveness.
The crucial period for strychnine application to control gophers in Alberta and Saskatchewan has commenced, running until September 1. This controversial rodenticide, previously banned by Health Canada due to environmental concerns, was reauthorized for controlled, time-limited emergency use following extensive lobbying by the provinces.
However, significant delays have plagued its availability. Supply chain disruptions meant the sole Canadian manufacturer, Agromax, could not deliver strychnine during the eagerly awaited March 1 to June 15 spring application window. This has led to limited quantities and concerns about the product's effectiveness this late in the season.
Some municipalities, facing demand that outstrips supply, are resorting to lottery systems to allocate the limited strychnine. Others, like Wainwright in east-central Alberta, have decided against distributing it this year, citing the late season and product scarcity. They aim to preserve the strychnine for the following year's spring application.
Concerns persist regarding strychnine's environmental impact, as it poses risks to at-risk species like swift foxes and burrowing owls, and can move up the food chain. Despite these risks, the federal government emphasizes a "Team Canada approach" to supporting farmers while maintaining strict environmental protocols for responsible use.
