The RM of Frenchman Butte No. 501 is collecting information from local producers to assist with a federal report on the impact of gopher (Richardson’s ground squirrel) infestations on agricultural lands.

We ask that producers experiencing issues related to gopher activity please email rm501pwm@sasktel.net with the following information:

• Extent of Damage: Estimated or documented crop and pastureland damage from gophers during the 2024 season

• Yield & Financial Impact: Noted reductions in productivity or financial losses due to gopher activity

• Control Measures Used: What methods are currently being used, and how effective have they been?

• Outlook for 2025: Concerns or expectations if no effective control (such as strychnine) becomes available

This data will be submitted as part of a larger Prairie-wide effort to advocate for federal action to address increasing gopher damage.

Deadline for submissions: July 31, 2025

Email: rm501pwm@sasktel.net

Please share with any agricultural ratepayers that we also have the questionaire to fill out in our office.

 

We appreciate your input and thank you for helping support agriculture in our RM.