The Fernie Lions Club recently hired Cranbrook Pest Control to address a gopher issue at the Fernie derby grounds following an incident in which an RCMP officer suffered a serious leg injury after stepping in a gopher hole. The injury occurred during a response to a bonfire disturbance on the property, prompting concerns about ground stability and public safety.

To manage the gopher population, bait was applied to burrows throughout the area. Cranbrook Pest Control has indicated that the product used is not harmful to larger animals such as dogs, although some bait may have surfaced due to gopher activity. Volunteers have since worked to fill exposed holes, and further inspection is planned.

While the need for public safety is clear, the decision to use poison as a method of control raises important questions about environmental impacts. Gophers play a role in soil aeration and serve as prey for raptors, foxes, and other native species. Poisoning, particularly if not carefully managed, may pose risks to non-target wildlife through secondary exposure.

Local residents and conservation advocates are encouraging the exploration of alternative, non-lethal control methods for future efforts, including:

• Mechanical trapping or deterrents

• Habitat modification

• Encouraging natural predators such as owls through nest box programs

• Barrier fencing in sensitive areas

As Fernie continues to grow and host more community events, finding a balance between public safety and environmental stewardship will remain a key concern. Community dialogue and thoughtful land management will be essential to ensuring the derby grounds remain both safe and ecologically sound.

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