Winnipeg, MB - Today, out of an abundance of caution, the Winnipeg Public Service provided an update to the public regarding the total locations where gopher/Richardson ground squirrel control operations have been suspended. During a proactive review of the work approval process, three additional parks were identified as having gopher control product applied and subsequently ceased since June 9. The additional parks are: Stanley Knowles Park, Wellington Park and Westview Park.
The following is a complete list of parks where gopher control products were applied prior to June 9:
- Stanley Knowles Park
- Wellington Park
- Optimist Park
- 2080 Ness (athletic fields across from the former Silver Heights Community Club)
- Vince Leah Community Club
- Little Mountain Park
- Westview Park
Two additional parks, John Blumberg Park and Woodsworth Park, were also approved for gopher/Richardson ground squirrel control. However, the contractor confirmed operations were suspended before treatment could be initiated in these locations.
Last week, the City suspended gopher/Richardson ground squirrel control operations in parks, and, as an added precaution, City crews were sent out to monitor parks where gopher control was applied. Inspections were also initiated in the three additional parks and will continue until the end of this week.
The City has a contract with a professional pest control company to treat parks in certain areas where gopher/Richardson ground squirrel infestations are reported by staff or the public. In most cases it is the public that call us to report this issue as a safety concern. Gopher/Richardson ground squirrel treatment in various parks has been going on for decades. Gopher/Richardson ground squirrel control products have also been applied in Brookside Cemetery but not on City golf courses.
Gopher/Richardson ground squirrels burrow potentially dangerous holes in turf areas that can become difficult to notice while the public are walking, playing or running in the park, potentially leading to injuries. Dogs can sustain leg injuries as well.