On February 2, 2026, the PMRA denied the emergency registration of 2% liquid strychnine for controlling Richardson’s ground squirrels in Alberta and Saskatchewan, citing risks to non-target species. This disappointed agricultural leaders, who argue that strychnine is safe and effective, and they urge the government to reconsider the decision to alleviate economic burdens.
Evaluation of Alternatives to Strychnine
Resolution 1-19, 3-21, 4-21, 11-23 2022 research in Saskatchewan and Alberta shows there are effective alternatives to Strychnine for Richardson Ground Squirrel (RGS) control. The study was conducted on grasslands and pastures with high populations of RGS in the MD of Willow Creek in Alberta and the Rural Municipality of Swift Current in Saskatchewan. The …
