Strychnine Shortfall Hits Alberta Farmers

Farmers across Alberta and Saskatchewan are in crisis as strychnine—their go-to gopher killer—won’t arrive in time for the critical spring application window closing June 15. The sole Canadian manufacturer, Agromax, is stuck in a global supply chain nightmare, delayed by overseas raw material shortages, soaring fuel costs, and flight cancellations. Even if shipments arrive next week, farmers must navigate a new, burdensome eligibility process involving training and detailed treatment plans. With gophers less vulnerable in summer heat, many farmers admit it’s too late for this season—and are already planning to wait until next spring. Officials acknowledge the frustration, noting that building stewardship programs takes time, while farmers argue alternatives like predator habitats or other pesticides simply don’t work as well. The situation underscores the tough balance between environmental protection and the economic toll of gopher damage on farmland. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/5407781b556b77a9