The federal strychnine ban must not be revoked.
The Saskatchewan Green Party opposes the Saskatchewan and Alberta governments' request that the federal ban on the use of strychnine be lifted. A return to using this toxic chemical to control gopher populations harms other wildlife and the environment. It’s not limited to the Richardson Ground Squirrels. The risk to burrowing owls and the swift fox, which are not targets of the strychnine but species likely to be harmed, is much too high.
Richardson Ground Squirrels loosen soil, and this aeration allows it to soak up more moisture for plants to grow, which is actually a benefit to farmers.
Instead of demanding the federal government reinstate the use of strychnine to poison gophers, Saskatchewan and Alberta should encourage natural predators of the Richardson Ground Squirrel. That is a more natural way to reinstate balance in the ecosystem.
Read the Feb 2026 Leaders Message
Contact your MLA, call-to-action in support of SAID recipients
When the SaskParty created SAID in 2009 and expanded it dramatically in 2011-2012, Brad Wall stood before the province and declared his government's goal was "to make Saskatchewan the best place in Canada to live for people with disabilities."
SAID was created as a dignified benefit for people with enduring disabilities. Sweeping amendments are being made to SAID policy regulations; they take effect on April 1st. These new regulations will absolutely create increased reliance on other community supports and drive homelessness in our communities. This government is now proposing to take away opportunity and safety nets that cost very little in a provincial budget – but are so needed for people with disabilities!
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