Further, it may become a problem weed, and it reportedly killed some children who ate buds from it. Crop rotation can reduce food resources and thus, pocket gopher populations. For alfalfa fields that are past peak production and infested with pocket gophers, it is advisable to plant row crops for one to three years to reduce food resources. Some varieties of alfalfa that have fibrous root systems may be less susceptible to gopher damage than tap-rooted varieties. Where available, flood irrigation can be used to move pocket gophers out of fields and make soils unsuitable for gopher activity.
Pocket gophers are interesting animals.
We offer advice on how to reduce damage caused by gophers but it is important to recognize advantages of having pocket gophers present. We know precious little about how ecosystems operate and the consequences of losing parts of those systems. Thus, we do not promote extirpation except in those cases where local economic issues make it necessary. Kenneth R. Bolen, Director of Cooperative Extension, University of Nebraska, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources.