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By Alice McFarlane

Richardson's Ground Squirrel

Farm groups applaud decision on strychnine use

Mar 31, 2026 | 12:14 PM

There has been a strong and positive response to the decision allowing the use of strychnine to control Richardson’s ground squirrels (RGS) on a temporary basis.  

Farmers and ranchers, along with agricultural organizations across the Prairies, successfully advocated for the federal government to reverse its decision. 

The Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM) said the reduced-scope, time-limited, and controlled emergency registration of strychnine is a major advocacy win for rural Saskatchewan 

President Bill Huber said his groups has been urging the federal government to recognize the serious economic damage caused by ground squirrels and the need for a practical, effective control option for farmers and ranchers.  

He said the announcement confirms the federal regulator will authorize emergency use of strychnine based on enhanced measures designed to protect species at-risk. 

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“SARM has been calling for a practical solution on strychnine for a long time, so today’s announcement is a significant win for our members,” Huber said. “The decision to approve emergency registration of strychnine recognizes the very real damage ground squirrels are causing to producers. This outcome shows that when rural concerns are backed by sound science and persistent advocacy, we can achieve balanced decisions that support producers on the ground while maintaining our commitment to environmental stewardship.” 

Huber said SARM will continue to work with the federal and provincial governments to support the implementation of the emergency registration, ensure producers understand and follow all conditions of use, and monitor how the new measures are working in the field. 

Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association President Jeff Yorga applauded the decision. 

“For hearing producers’ concerns and pushing forward with a common sense, made-in Saskatchewan solution to the ongoing gopher infestation,” Yorga said. 

Sask Wheat board chair Jocelyn Velestuk thanked the Saskatchewan Government for continuing to press this issue with the Pest Management Regulatory Agency. 

“Having controlled, emergency registration of strychnine provides producers with a critical tool to help mitigate damage and losses to cereal crops incurred by pests,” Velestuk said. “While we are still awaiting full details, the positive direction we are seeing is an important step for Saskatchewan farmers.” 

Saskatchewan Cattle Association (SCA) Chair Chad Ross said there has been considerable negative economic impact of RGS and is a reality for many livestock producers and their ability to manage the pest.  

SaskOats Chair Elwood White said RGS have been increasing sharply in some areas since the cancellation of the product in 2023 and the change will allow producers adequate tools to address the problem. 

“Farmers have been clear that losing strychnine has caused extreme losses on our farms,” SaskBarley Chair Cody Glenn said. “This revised EUR shows we can use strychnine safely while still protecting wildlife. It means farmers can once again use a tool that makes a real difference in managing RGS.” 

Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) said while this emergency authorization is a meaningful step forward, it is a temporary measure and it will continue to work with governments for permanent access to strychnine.  

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alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com