Richardson's Ground Squirrel

Richardson’s Ground Squirrel

The Richardson’s Ground Squirrel, along with the Columbian Ground Squirrel, Franklin’s Ground Squirrel, Northern Pocket Gopher, and the Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel are all declared nuisances under the Pest and Nuisance Control Regulation.

Ground squirrels can cause crop damage by eating the crop directly, or by reducing the plant’s production due to trampling injury. Control of Richardson’s Ground Squirrels should be done in early spring for the best results.

While strychnine is generally not registered in Alberta, an emergency registration of 2% liquid strychnine is in place with strict requirements until November 2027:

Use is limited to eligible landowners (farmers/ranchers/commercial ag producers)
Mandatory training (SARM) must be completed prior to access
Visit the SARM website to register: Strychnine Stewardship Training - SARM | Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities
Purchase limits apply, with increased reporting and monitoring requirements

Approved alternatives such as zinc phosphide and Rozol remain available.

Read and follow the label for directions when using rodenticide.

Contact your agricultural fieldmen at [email protected] or at 403-772-3793 to discuss gopher control options.