Communications

OTTAWA, Feb. 4, 2026 — Grain Growers of Canada is disappointed by the Pest Management Regulatory Agency’s decision to deny emergency use registration (EUR) for two per cent liquid strychnine to Alberta and Saskatchewan, a decision that leaves Prairie farmers without an effective tool to manage a persistent and highly destructive agricultural pest.

Producers across Alberta and Saskatchewan continue to face growing pest populations that threaten crop yields, forage availability, and the viability of hay land and native pasture. Continuing to ban a proven control option further limits farmers’ ability to protect their operations, particularly in the absence of any alternative that matches the effectiveness of strychnine.

The result is substantial economic harm through lost yields and long-term land damage.

Grain Growers of Canada recognizes the importance of strong environmental and health protections. Regulatory decisions, however, must also be grounded in sound science and reflect on-farm realities. Farmers are responsible stewards of the land and depend on practical, effective pest-management tools to maintain sustainable production and protect Canada’s food supply.

The emergency-use request submitted by Alberta and Saskatchewan included enhanced stewardship measures, targeted application windows, and additional safeguards to mitigate risks to non-target species. By rejecting this request, the current regulatory approach disregards both on-farm realities and the need to maintain agricultural competitiveness and food system resilience.

Grain Growers of Canada urges the federal government and the PMRA to urgently reconsider this decision in light of the Prime Minister’s initiative to make regulations more sensitive to the needs of the economy. 

Without effective tools, the economic and operational impacts will extend beyond farm gates and affect food availability and affordability for Canadians.

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About Grain Growers of Canada (GGC):

As the national voice for Canada’s grain farmers, Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) represents over 100,000 producers through our 15 national, provincial and regional grower groups. Our members steward 120 million acres of land to grow food for Canadians and for 160 countries around the world, creating $45 billion in export value annually. As the farmer-driven association for the grains sector, GGC champions federal policies that support the competitiveness and profitability of grain growers across Canada.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Hana Sabah
Sr. Communications Manager
Grain Growers of Canada
hana@graingrowers.ca | 514-834-8841