Farmers are facing a challenge with gophers, also known as Richardson’s ground squirrels, as they cause damage to crops and equipment, posing a threat to livestock. The use of strychnine to control gopher populations was banned in 2024 due to its harmful effects on other wildlife and inhumane nature.
To address the issue, the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation (SWF) initiated a free gopher control program last year to assist farmers. Todd Smith, the executive director of SWF, mentioned that the program was a response to the increasing demand for gopher control.
Farmers interested in the program can contact the organization, which will then connect them with volunteers in their area who are willing to help. These volunteers, covered by liability insurance, ensure responsible and ethical gopher management.
While the program is beneficial, James Husband, reeve of the Rural Municipality of Hazelwood, pointed out that controlling gopher populations remains a significant challenge due to their rapid reproduction rate. He highlighted the effectiveness of strychnine in controlling gophers, emphasizing that targeting them as they emerge from hibernation is crucial.
Edmond Sanganyado, an associate professor at the University of Saskatchewan, suggested shooting gophers as a humane alternative to poison, as it results in a quicker and more certain death. He explained the adverse effects of strychnine, causing convulsions and potential death within a short period.
The best time to target gophers is when adult males emerge in mid-February to early March, followed by females in mid-March. Acting before the birth of kits reduces the impact on crops. Some farmers have resorted to using zinc phosphide as an alternative to strychnine, although it is less effective, more labor-intensive, and costly.