Gophers at the center of conflict between Ottawa and the Prairies

Alberta and Saskatchewan premiers Danielle Smith and Scott Moe have called for a federal exemption to the Health Canada ban on strychnine, a nerve toxin used to control Richardson’s Ground Squirrel populations that are damaging crops and infrastructure. The Pest Management Regulatory Association rejected their emergency use request, meaning growers may not have access to strychnine for the spring 2026 season, risking over $800 million to agriculture. Smith argues this issue raises constitutional questions regarding federal and provincial jurisdiction over agricultural matters.

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