Strychnine use for Richardson's ground squirrels — a topic that has been up for debate since the federal government banned the substance for use in terms of pest control back in March 2024. The ban was instituted after Health Canada deemed strychnine did not meet the requirements for protection of the environment.
This past March, the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities made news by calling on the province to help reverse the decision. They feel strychnine is a crucial tool to use against the growing population of Richardson’s ground squirrels, or gophers, a common problem for Saskatchewan landowners that now feel less equipped to handle the situation.
WestCentralOnline posed a poll question on Monday asking if the province should bring back strychnine, and it was met with a resounding yes.
People against the ban used reasons from "it works", to the fact that for many it's the only effective solution for an out-of-control problem. It was also a common response that alternative products just don't work as well and are at times more expensive.
Another reader pointed out that drought conditions over the past few years have only helped boost the gopher population, someone else sharing firsthand experience that the increase is numbers is ruining pastures and land.
"They are impossible to eradicate without it. I am fighting a losing battle." shared a separate response.
On the other side of the coin, environmental aspects from damaging the ecosystem, all the way to negative butterfly effects for other animal populations have people wondering if strychnine is worth the risk.
"It is outdated, certainly people can have better ideas by now. Quit living in the 1800's", said one person. Another commented that "too many secondary and third predators die from poisoned animals", blaming it on irresponsible users.
Many were against the use of poison in general, saying the practice kills much more wildlife than just gophers.
"There are other effective means that are less harmful to animals; birds, etc., up the food chain"
While there is no denying those impacts, many will argue the same for a lack of effectiveness from the new chemicals people want.
"Current solutions are so ineffective it merely gives them a tummy ache. Like that will do something." said one respondent. "Strychnine works. Bring it back."
The debate over strychnine use in Saskatchewan remains far from settled, As the issue continues to unfold, it’s clear that finding a balanced, effective, and sustainable solution remains a priority for both landowners and policymakers.