BC temporarily bans sale and use of rodenticides

The Province is placing a temporary ban on the sale and use of second-generation rodenticides.

Effective July 21, the sale and use of second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARS) is prohibited for 18 months.

This will help protect owls and other wildlife from secondary poisoning while government conducts a science review and steps up the promotion of alternatives, BC says.

The second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARS)  are more powerful than the previous generation of rodenticides and increase the risk of the secondary poisoning of other animals who consume poisoned rodents, the province said.

The ministry’s Rodenticide Action Plan also includes increased public information activities to raise awareness of the risks of SGARS, the benefits of alternatives and the promotion of the integrated pest management system to reduce unnecessary pesticide use.

“We share the concerns of many British Columbians that rodenticide use is harming, and too often killing, birds, pets and other wildlife,” said George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy.

“That is why we are taking action to reduce risks, conduct a review and step up our efforts to reduce unnecessary pesticide use, rather than safer alternatives.”

“I have been able to meet with some of the British Columbians who are concerned about the effects of rodenticides on wildlife,” said Susie Chant, MLA for North Vancouver-Seymour.

“Our government is taking steps to address the dangers rodenticides pose to owls and other wildlife across B.C. This temporary ban will allow us to collaborate with experts in the field of rodent control and wildlife protection and work together on public education and the prevention of further harm to wildlife our province.”

Exemptions to the temporary ban include when use supports agricultural production and food safety. Health services, such as hospitals, food processing and storage facilities, restaurants and grocery stores, are also exempt.