Alberta crop and livestock producers welcome emergency authorization of strychnine 

Alberta crop and livestock producer organizations are welcoming the Government of Alberta’s success in securing an emergency use registration of strychnine to help manage Richardson Ground Squirrels. 

This authorization provides an important and immediate tool for producers facing increasing infestations that threaten pasture, rangeland, and cropland across the province. Left unmanaged, ground squirrels can cause significant economic damage and undermine the productivity of farms and ranches that rural communities depend on. 

With no viable, scalable alternatives currently available, this authorization is critical for producers dealing with widespread infestations. Strychnine remains the only proven tool that can be effectively deployed at the scale required in severe situations. 

This outcome reflects sustained advocacy from Alberta’s agricultural sector and strong leadership from the provincial government. The efforts of Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation RJ Sigurdson, alongside the engagement of Premier Danielle Smith with federal counterparts, following earlier challenges in securing approval, were key to achieving this result. 

We recognize the persistence required to secure this authorization and appreciate the Government of Alberta’s commitment to supporting producers and rural communities. 

While this emergency registration provides needed short-term relief, producers note it is one tool within a broader approach to pest management. 

Alberta’s producer organizations remain committed to working with all levels of government to ensure producers have access to effective, science-based tools to protect their operations now and into the future.

Alberta Beef Producers, Alberta-British Columbia Seed Growers, Alberta Canola, Alberta Grains,  
Alberta Pulse Growers, Alberta Sugar Beet Growers, Potato Growers of Alberta