Regina, Saskatchewan – The Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM) is welcoming the federal government’s decision to approve a reduced-scope, time-limited, and controlled emergency registration of strychnine, calling it a major advocacy win for rural Saskatchewan producers.
For years, SARM has been urging the federal government to recognize the serious economic damage caused by ground squirrels and the need for a practical, effective control option for farmers and ranchers. Today’s announcement confirms that the federal regulator will authorize emergency use of strychnine based on enhanced measures designed to protect species at risk.
“SARM has been calling for a practical solution on strychnine for a long time, so today’s announcement is a significant win for our members,” said SARM President Bill Huber. “The decision to approve an emergency registration of strychnine recognizes the very real damage ground squirrels are causing to producers.”
“This outcome shows that when rural concerns are backed by sound science and persistent advocacy, we can achieve balanced decisions that support producers on the ground while maintaining our commitment to environmental stewardship,” Huber added. “Producers have been clear that they need effective tools to protect their crops and pastures, and this decision acknowledges that reality.”
SARM will continue to work with the federal and provincial governments to support the implementation of the emergency registration, ensure producers understand and follow all conditions of use, and monitor how the new measures are working in the field.
“Rural municipalities and producers are on the front lines of both food production and environmental stewardship,” Huber said. “SARM is proud of the role our organization and members played in shaping a solution that reflects both of those responsibilities.”
(SARM news release)
