The Threat to Our Prairie Ecosystem from Non-native Species
Non-native invasive species threaten the Prairies by aggressively outcompeting native plants and animals, thus reducing biodiversity and damaging soil health.
Non-native and invasive animals in Saskatchewan – such as wild boars, common carp and Prussian carp – severely threaten local wildlife by destroying fragile habitats and spreading dangerous diseases. Saskatchewan needs stronger legislation in place to prevent future non-native species incursions and to combat those already here.
From the 2024 Sask. Green Party Election Platform
“Saskatchewan is the only province without a Wetlands Protection Policy. It’s time that Saskatchewan follows the lead of our neighbours in Alberta and Manitoba and develops a more balanced mitigation policy, one that offers protection for municipalities, producers, and society.
When wetlands are drained, we lose the benefits they provide of clean water, flood and drought protection, and recreation opportunities.
Saskatchewan must have a Wetlands Conservation Policy that doesn’t fall short of what is actually needed. As well, we also need legislation to protect our grasslands.”
Read the June 2026 Leader's Message
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 Leader's Message
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