Gophers & Strychnine

Richardson Ground Squirrels (gophers) pose a significant threat to agricultural land, damaging crops and creating hazardous conditions for livestock and equipment.

Strychnine Ban & Phase-Out Timeline

The Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) has cancelled the registration of 2% liquid strychnine for use on Richardson Ground Squirrels, with the following phase-out schedule:

• March 4, 2020: Registration cancelled
• March 4, 2021: Last date for manufacturers to sell the product
• March 4, 2022: Last date for retailers (including the County of Newell) to sell the product
• March 4, 2023: Last date for users to apply the product
• After March 4, 2023: Owning or using strychnine becomes illegal and may result in fines

County of Newell Strychnine Sales & Procedures

Until March 4, 2022, the County's Agricultural Services Department will continue selling 2% liquid strychnine concentrate (LSC) to qualifying landowners under the following conditions:

• Sold on a cost-recovery basis (price subject to change)
• Maximum purchase: 2 cases per individual (as per policy 2016-PAG-032)
• Sales handled only by trained Agricultural Services staff
• Purchasers must complete training from Agricultural Services staff
• Eligibility: Must be a bona fide farmer owning at least 80 acres of agricultural land

Required Information at Purchase:
✔ Name
✔ Phone Number
✔ Land Description (where the product will be applied)

The Agricultural Service Board (ASB) reserves the right to refuse service to any landowner suspected of misusing the product. Any violation of label recommendations will result in forfeiture of purchasing privileges.

For more information or to inquire about alternative pest management strategies, please contact the Agricultural Services Department.