Regina’s gopher control program begins this week

The City of Regina’s gopher control program is getting underway this week.

“An overpopulation of gophers can be a nuisance and create holes that pose safety hazards for residents and pets, particularly in parks and athletic fields,” the city explained in a statement.

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The gopher control program will see city crews apply Rozol RTU, a Health Canada-approved product, to areas like storm channels, roadways and railway buffer zones. The product won’t be used on athletic fields or “traditional park spaces,” the city noted.

The 32 sites identified for treatment will be marked with yellow signs, the city added, and crews will monitor the sites daily to ensure the treatments are effective and are not posing a safety risk. The signs will remain in place until the sites are clear of the bait and gopher activity is under control.

Richardson’s ground squirrels (gophers) are native to the prairies. (Butlerstockphotography1/Depositphotos.com)

“Residents are advised to avoid these marked areas, especially when walking with children or pets,” the city added.

Pet owners were encouraged to keep their animals leashed and well away from the treated areas.

According to the City of Regina, spring is the most effective time for the gopher control program, as gophers are coming out of their burrows and searching for food.

The program will run for the next several weeks, and the city said more information on the gopher control program can be found on its website.