You can also count new mounds in a given area both before and after control but this is less accurate than the above procedure. Judge each control situation individually. Greater levels of control are necessary where high-value crops or areas occur as in orchards, windbreaks and golf courses. Rangelands can be improved with lower levels of control. Weigh the benefits of pocket gophers as well as risks.
Pocket gophers mix and aerate soils and provide habitat and food for other animals.
Safety Precautions and Legal Restrictions Do not apply any baits above ground. Gophers rarely feed there and the baits are hazardous to other wildlife. Bait may fall through the shank as the machine is raised on models not equipped with brakes on free floating press wheels. This leaves hazardous toxic bait above ground. Bury spilled grain out of the reach of animals or apply as directed on the label.