New Democrat MLA Chant says the province is protecting wildlife by establishing permanent restrictions that will ban the widespread sale and use of second-generation rodenticides.
“We know many British Columbians are concerned about the harms of rodenticides on wildlife and animals in our community,” said Susie Chant, MLA for North Vancouver-Seymour. “This new permanent ban is an important step in protecting owls, other wildlife and ecosystems across the province. Thanks to advocacy from people in my community and groups within B.C., more people are aware of the detrimental impacts of second-generation rodenticides and are opting for safer alternatives.”
Second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs) can pose a risk of poisoning to animals that eat poisoned rodents. To reduce this risk, the ministry established an 18-month ban on the sale and use of SGARs in July 2021.
During this 18-month ban, the ministry spoke with technical experts, reviewed the science, outlined proposed regulatory amendments in an intentions paper and held a public consultation.
After reviewing the almost 1,600 consultation responses, the ministry is proceeding with the changes as described in the intentions paper. To align with the end of the temporary ban, the revised Integrated Pest Management Regulation will come into effect on Jan. 21, 2023.
The regulation will prohibit the sale and use of SGARs in B.C. for all members of the public, and most commercial and industrial operations. Only select sectors deemed “essential services” such as hospitals and food production will be able to purchase and use SGARs, provided they meet the requirements or hire a licensed pest control company contracted to do this work. This will include holding a certificate and licence, having a site-specific integrated pest management plan and recording its use.
The changes will reduce unnecessary pesticide use by requiring individuals and businesses to focus on other methods of pest control, such as traps, less toxic rodenticide alternatives and removing food sources.
Good work, thank-you.