R.M. of Mariposa lobbied to get onto strychnine map
By Stu Salkeld
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Your West Central Voice
The R.M. of Mariposa lobbied strongly for a place in the federal government's 2026 strychnine program and the work appears to have paid off. Councillors heard an update on the strychnine map issue at their May 8 regular meeting.
Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Kathy Wurz stated in a phone interview May 20 that Mariposa wasn't originally included on government maps describing areas in Saskatchewan where strychnine would be available through Agri-Food and Agriculture Canada's 2026 program.
Wurz stated Mariposa got vocal over this omission and it wasn't long before the maps in question were being re-drawn to include Mariposa as an area where producers could access the proven gopher-solution. Even as the program is heavy on rules, the CAO stated councillors felt it was important to offer producers this option.
The CAO observed she wasn't sure how the maps were drawn in the first place, as Mariposa has traditionally had heavy gopher populations which create problems for producers.
The CAO also noted she's taken the mandatory strychnine training and the law says Mariposa cannot sell strychnine to anyone who hasn't taken the training.
While it's getting late in the spring for gopher solutions, Wurz stated it appears this program will extend to next fall when producers may have a chance to use the poison then.
Councillors also examined their 2025 financial statements which had been submitted by the auditor. The CAO also stated that there were no assessment roll appeals.
Councillors heard that the community water well was getting some maintenance after it was turned off last year. Wurz reported that with all the construction traffic for the new shop it was felt that more traffic for the water well could cause a problem.
Wurz stated the well has a few wrinkles that need to be ironed out before it will return to full operation. She noted users have been notified the well will be up and running soon.
The CAO presented councillors with information regarding disc mowers; they looked at quotes and were interested in a demonstration. Wurz stated funds have already been budgeted for this purchase.
It was noted during a rec board report that the local Kinsmen Club has donated funds for playground equipment in Poolside Park.
Also, Mariposa has donated funds to support the Kerrobert sports day.
The CAO reported that councillors were happy to hear the fire board's new fire truck arrived but they also had to clarify some of the finances to pay for it. Wurz reported that Mariposa is committed to contributing funds to pay for the fire truck, and the board requested some future funds be paid up-front. As well, the fire board is looking to sell an older truck and apply the revenue to the new truck's purchase price. As well, there was some talk about the purchase of a mini-pumper.
Readers should note since the pandemic the price tags on specialized emergency vehicles have risen substantially; it's not unusual for fire trucks, for example, to start around a quarter million dollars, with some approaching a full million, depending on type and equipment.
The Mariposa council also received an update on efforts to conduct a study of Hwy. #31's condition; Mariposa councillors decided to table this item until they find out what Kerrobert council is doing.
Councillors pondered gravel supplies this summer as they looked at work they wished done in 2026 but continue to look for a contractor. An unexpected shutdown threw a monkey wrench in gravel road plans this summer.
Wurz reported that the R.M. is looking at exploring for more gravel, as it has about a four-year supply but wants to plan ahead 10 to 20 years.
The CAO added that the municipality is always interested in hearing from property owners who think they have gravel on their land.