Prairie Premiers Escalate Turf War with Ottawa Over Strychnine Ban
A contentious dispute between the federal government and Prairie provinces has erupted publicly, with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe demanding an immediate three-year exemption from a federal ban on strychnine, a deadly nerve toxin used to control agricultural pests. This conflict centers on the overpopulation of Richardson's Ground Squirrels, commonly known as gophers, which are causing extensive damage to crops and infrastructure across the region.
Joint Letter Highlights Economic and Agricultural Threats
In a joint letter shared on social media to Prime Minister Mark Carney, the premiers detailed the severe consequences of Health Canada's 2020 ban on strychnine. They reported that since the deregistration, gopher populations have surged, becoming a serious pest threat. These animals are damaging a wide range of crops, chewing through fiber optic cables, and puncturing small water and gas lines, leading to significant economic losses.
The Pest Management Regulatory Association (PMRA) under Health Canada rejected an emergency use request from Alberta and Saskatchewan on February 6, stating that the threat of significant economic damages alone does not justify an exemption from the ban. This decision means that, without a last-minute reversal, farmers in these provinces will lack access to strychnine for the spring 2026 growing season, potentially risking over $800 million in hay and native pastures.
Constitutional Implications and Provincial Pushback
Premier Smith framed the issue as a potential constitutional conflict during her radio show, arguing that agriculture is an area of joint federal-provincial jurisdiction. She criticized Ottawa for interfering and passing laws that negatively impact provincial autonomy, stating, Our fields are being decimated because our farmers aren't allowed to use strychnine. This sentiment aligns with a referendum question in Alberta this October, which asks whether the provincial government should seek a constitutional amendment to give provincial laws primacy over federal laws in shared jurisdictions like agriculture.
Understanding Strychnine and Its Historical Use
Strychnine is a highly potent plant-based neurotoxin, typically appearing as a colourless and odourless crystalline powder. It causes rapid death in rodents and other vermin by inducing intense muscle convulsions. First registered for use in Canada in 1928, it has been employed for decades to control pests and predators, including wolves, bears, skunks, and pigeons. The current ban reflects growing concerns over environmental and health risks, but Prairie leaders argue it overlooks the urgent needs of local farmers facing a gopher crisis.
As the spring growing season approaches, the call for an exemption underscores a deepening rift between federal regulations and provincial agricultural priorities, with premiers Smith and Moe urging swift action to mitigate further damage and protect the economic stability of Prairie farming communities.
