An in depth look at the principal requirements of an orderly and systematic approach to vertebrate pest problems in Canada is presented (Part I) as a prerequisite to a proposed theoretical model illustrating the involvement of various agencies. A model depicting how these agencies could best utilize their available resources towards the development of improved vertebrate pest control technology is presented in Part II. The involvement of private consultants in vertebrate pestology is relatively new (and perhaps unappreciated), yet offers substantial potential in the development of selected facets of the vertebrate pest field. The proposed roles of other agencies are discussed with respect to advantages of improved co-ordination of effort, and the increased utilization of private consultants. Congruent with revised National Science Policies, predictions are offered regarding the importance of future expansion of industrial involvement (manufacturers, private consultants, private testing and research laboratories and others) in research and development of vertebrate pest control. Although the program requirements and proposed administrative model for a vertebrate pest control program pertain to the situation in Canada, the general principles lend themselves to application elsewhere.

Richardson's ground squirrel is one of the most economically harmful rodents in east central Alberta. In an effort to develop an effective, safe, economical and practical method of long-term population control over large areas, experimental field testing was begun in 1970 to evaluate a variety of potential control techniques. Although tests with a machine bait applicator proved unsuccessful due to the unique soil structure, its potential in other areas of the province is discussed. Use of portable baiting stations is limited by the manufacturing and maintenance costs as well as the limited attractability of the stations. Attractability of the stations to ground squirrels was not increased with the use of reflector tops; however, it did have a repellent influence on raptors feeding in the area. Disposable baiting tubes appeared to have greater potential for large acreages and possible aerial application. Initial tests conducted with diethylstilbestrol and mestranol as chemosterilants are outlined. The potential of using techniques to regulate reproductive rate as opposed to increasing mortality rate is discussed. The potential of using amphetamines to reduce body weight and increase winter mortality during hibernation is also discussed.