Highwood MLA and Alberta Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, RJ Sigurdson, is celebrating Alberta being rat-free for 75 years.
The rat patrol was formed in 1950 and has kept the vermin out of our province ever since.
It doesn't necessarily mean there are no rats, but it does mean that once a rat or nest is discovered, they are quickly exterminated.
Alberta is one of the only places in the world that works to eliminate rats.
Even having a rat as a pet is illegal in our province.
Millions of dollars have been saved since the '50s thanks to the program.
If you do see a rat, live or dead, the province wants you to let them know.
You're asked to take a photo, mark down the exact location and send them the info in one of four ways.
- Email: rats@gov.ab.ca
- Toll-free: 310-FARM (3276) (in Alberta)
- Phone: 403-742-7901 (outside Alberta)
- Phone your local bylaw Agriculture Fieldmen office.
The hours are from 8:15 am to 4:30 pm (Monday to Friday, closed statutory holidays).